Typical substances used in drink spiking

in piktogramm stil ein glas mit einem tropfen drin. der hintergrund muss transparent sein und die farbe des glases und des tropf schwarz

GHB or GBL

GHB and GBL are colorless liquids and are among the most common date rape drugs. Drowsiness and loss of consciousness occur within 10 to 30 minutes. Because they are only detectable for a short time, medical help should be sought immediately if GHB or GBL is suspected.

ie untere hälfte ganz schwarz

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines such as Rohypnol are tablets or drops with a sedative effect. They take effect after 15–30 minutes and cause drowsiness, memory lapses, and disorientation that can last for several hours.

jetzt siehts aus als wäre es flüssig. es ist aber pulver!

Ketamine

Ketamine is an anesthetic available in powder or liquid form. It takes effect within minutes, can cause hallucinations and immobility, and in most cases lasts for 1–2 hours.

Facts about the problem

ein symbol zum thema gefahr. es soll simpel und überschaubar sein so piktogrammmässig sein. der hintergrund muss transparent sein

Knockout drops are an invisible but real threat. Even small amounts are enough to render people defenseless – with serious consequences for health and safety.

es soll für ein piktogramm sein

Many incidents remain hidden – out of fear, shame, or lack of evidence. The number of unreported cases is correspondingly high, which often makes the extent of the problem seem underestimated.

es soll so schnurartig sein

The effects extend far beyond the moment. In addition to health risks, such incidents often leave deep psychological scars and undermine confidence in a safe outcome.

Guidelines for clubs and festivals

1. Immediate measures

  • Inform staff/bar/security immediately
  • Never leave the affected person alone
  • Move to a quiet, well-lit area
  • Bring a trusted companion

2. Medical assistance

  • Observe symptoms (nausea, confusion, unconsciousness, breathing problems)
  • Call emergency number 144 if you have severe symptoms or are unconscious
  • If you suspect a crime, also inform the police
  • Do not give any other drinks or substances, only small sips of water when awake

3. First aid

  • If unconscious, place in the recovery position
  • Check breathing and pulse, if breathing stops, start resuscitation immediately
  • Deploy first aiders in the team (if available)

4. Secure evidence

  • Store drink/glass, do not throw anything away
  • Note times and observations (last swallow, symptoms, time)
  • Discreetly observe suspicious persons, do not confront them
  • Save camera timestamps

5. Follow-up care

  • Organize a safe journey home or hospital transport
  • Inform victim support/person of trust if desired
  • Create internal report

Legal valuation, Switzerland

Administering knockout drops in drinks is a serious crime in Switzerland. Depending on the consequences, various provisions of the Swiss Criminal Code (StGB) may apply:

Serious bodily harm (Art. 122 StGB) or attempted murder (Art. 111–113 StGB)

  • if serious health damage or danger to life occurs.

Simple bodily harm (Art. 123 StGB) or endangering life (Art. 129 StGB)

  • simply by administering a substance without knowledge or consent.

Sexual coercion (Art. 189 StGB) or rape (Art. 190 StGB)

  • if the substances are abused for sexual acts .

Failure to provide assistance (Art. 128 StGB)

  • when clubs, bars or event organizers fail to provide assistance or secure evidence in the event of an incident.
  • Evidence is crucial: Drinks, glasses, video recordings, and notes must not be disposed of. In case of suspicion, immediately inform the police at 117 .