There’s rising concern among nightlife workers and Seattle Police Department that people drugging drinks are happening more often, especially in Capital Hill venues.

According to SPD, members of the nightlife scene recently informed detectives that there may be unreported cases of drinks being spiked. At this time there have been no specific cases related to drugged drinks or any particular venue, however detectives are actively looking for information pertaining to unreported cases.

So what is a spiked drink?

The Office of Womens Health identifies three drugs known as “date rape” drugs: Rohypnol, GHB (4-hydroxybutanoic acid) and Ketamine. All of these drugs can come in a powder form and are dissolved in a drink. However, GHB and ketamine can also be in a liquid form. The drugs render the victim incapacitated and likely not able to remember the events that take place once they are drugged. The term "date rape" is widely used, but most experts prefer the term "drug-facilitated sexual assault." These drugs are used on people of any gender, and the term is misleading because the person committing the crime might be a total stranger and not on a date with the victim.

SPD advises patrons to never leave a drink unattended. Also the act of covering the drink with a coaster and having a “friend” watch it is not recommended. SPD also advises to never accept a drink from someone you don’t know.

A 2011 Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) report stated that there were
an estimated 15,471 emergency department (ED) visits attributed to intentional drug poisoning that year. Approximately 65 percent of drug-related ED visits attributed to intentional poisoning in 2011 involved unidentified drugs. Furthermore, a similar percentage involved alcohol in combination with other drugs, which was 62 percent.

“Depending on the drug or combination of drugs taken, victims may experience drowsiness and loss of consciousness, leaving them vulnerable to crimes such as robbery, physical assault, or sexual assault,” stated the report.

Sarah, 26, is a server in North Seattle. She said that she frequents bars and clubs on Capital Hill regularly, but has never had a problem with drugged drinks. However, she says she’s careful.

“I’m always cautious and either finish my drink before I go to the bathroom or leave it with a friend,” said Sarah.

But there are other things people can do to protect themselves. OWH recommends never drinking from community containers like punch bowls; always carry your own drink; watch the beverage being poured and if you feel drunk and haven’t had much to drink seek help right away.

SPD is seeking anyone who believes they may have been the victims of a drugging. They advise to contact a medical provider right away.