Knockout Drops
Knock out drops are often difficult to detect. Here you can learn about risks, warning signs, protection strategies, and support services.
What are Knockout Drops?
Knockout (K.O.) drops do not refer to a single specific drug. Various sedative substances may be mixed into a person’s drink to make them more vulnerable to sexual violence or theft. The drugs used for this purpose act at different speeds and durations, alter perception, can impair movement and the ability to act, and in the worst case may even be fatal.
Symptoms of K.O. Drops may be:
- Initial euphoria
- Difficulty perceiving things clearly
- Sudden dizziness and nausea
- Throwing up
- Confusion or a dazed state
- Loss of consciousness
- Limited mobility or even immobility
- Memory gaps
If you experience one or multiple of these symptoms or notice them in someone else, please act immediately!
Sadly there were multiple incidents of K.O. Drops in different locations of the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria. This alarming phenomenon calls for our united attention to protect our community.
The Student's Union (ÖH) works together with the FH on measures and education tactics, to work unitedly together against this serious problem.
If you or someone you know is affected or suspects to be affected, do not hesitate to reach out to Bar staff or the Student Union. We take all incidents seriously and stand by your side. Your safety and well-being is important to us and we are here to help.
Confide in the ÖH - sozial@oeh.fh-ooe.at - together we can actively work against this problem!
Tips to protect yourself and others
- Do not accept open drinks from strangers.
- Do not leave your drink unattended.
- Stay in groups when you go out and do not leave anyone alone.
- Watch the people around you:
- Is your friend much more intoxicated than they normally would be after two glasses of wine?
- Do you notice someone flirting with a person who clearly does not want it or who is already heavily intoxicated?
- If you are unsure, ask!
Protection bracelets that test your drink for drugs, and drink covers to keep your glass covered while out, are available online or at drugstores.
All of these measures can help you stay safer.
IMPORTANT! Administering drugs to someone is a criminal offense and not a trivial matter. The blame in the case of a K.O.-drop incapacitation never lies with the victim, regardless of any preventive measures they may have taken.
What can you do if you suspect that someone has spiked your drink?
- Contact a friend immediately or speak directly to the bar staff!
- Seek medical help: call emergency services or go to the hospital!
- Have blood and urine samples taken there! Most K.O. drugs are only detectable for about 12 hours.
- Report the incident to the police!
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