DATE RAPE DRUG EMAIL IS NOT REAL

[Alfa]

DATE RAPE DRUG EMAIL IS NOT REAL


A Non-Existent Date Rape Drug Causes Alarm, Fear


An e-mail hoax warning girls of a fake date rape drug is circulating colleges in the Lower Mainland and raising awareness of date rape drug issues.


The e-mail claims Progesterex, a drug used to sterilize large animals, is mixed with a tranquilizer called Rohypnol, or "Roofies," a well-known date rape drug. Mixing the two drugs prevents women from getting pregnant, saving the rapist from being identified by a paternity test months later.


But according to the Vancouver Rape Relief and Women's Shelter, Lower Mainland hospitals found Progesterex did not exist. Website about.com and Columbia University's "Health Q&A" website also deny the existence of Progesterex.


The e-mail is a "double-edged sword" said Indira Prahst, a sociology instructor. While the e-mail instills fear, it also produces awareness about date rape drugs. Prahst said if more women are aware of date rape drugs they will be more willing to come forward.


Langara College students Savani Brown and Lorraine Campbell said they heard about the Progesterex email and are aware of date rape drugs.


"It's really sketchy when someone tries to buy you a drink, but it's hard because you don't want to live in fear. Where do you draw the line?" Campbell said.