Video Extent of drink spiking a 'myth', suggests new research

[~lostgurl~]

A new entry has been added to Drugs Archive

Description:

2 mins
24 June 2008
Nightline - TV3 - NZ

Sydney experts are divided over new research that suggests drink spiking, with illicit drugs, is largely a myth. The study revealed most of those claiming to be victims had either knowingly taken drugs or simply drunk too much.

When drinking leads to more than a hangover, spiking leaps to mind. But the new research suggests strangers dropping pills into drinks is actually quite rare.

"(It) seems to be over-reported and over-feared by the consumers," says Dr David Caldicott of Royal Adelaide Hospital. Dr Caldicott tested 160 patients who claimed to have had their drinks spiked.

Of those, only four had drugs like GHB in their system, and they all admitted using it. Twenty percent had used ecstasy, while nearly two-thirds showed high levels of another drug: ethanol, better known as plain old alcohol.

Doctors warn spirits and alcopops also increase the effect of drugs.

Sydney's Dr Ray Seidler says drink spiking can be a convenient excuse.
"A lot of people would rather blame an anonymous drink spiker, than take responsibility for their own actions," he says.

Rebekah Rade insists drink spiking is real. It has happened to her, six times.
"You wake up and you come to, and you think, 'Oh, I'm not where I think I am - I'm not doing what I think I'm doing' - so yeah, it's not nice."


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Extent of drink spiking a 'myth', suggests new research
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