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.