According to a National Institute of Justice study, about 62% of 100,000 reported sexual assaults were due to the victim being “drugged” while 5% of the assaults were considered date-rape. Of course, not all of these assaults occurred on a college campus, but the numbers are still somewhat startling. In an article titled “A dangerous mix: drinking, sex, and college students,” Carol Smith claims that alcohol is the number one date rape drug on campus. The article points out how common it is for drugs to be associated with sexual assault. According to Trinka Poratta, a consultant for police departments and educational institutions says there are almost 40 different drugs that are common factors in campus sexual assaults including benzodiazepines (Valium and Ativan), party drugs (Ecstasy), and pain meds (Vicodin). The most common date rape drug is GHB because of it is common to dispense this potent odorless and clear liquid in eye dropper or a nasal spray bottle. Some date rape drugs can affect the system in as quickly as 15 minutes. Also, when some drugs are combined with alcohol, the result can be amnesia. Even if an individual consents to a sexual encounter, the individual is considered legally incapable of consent which would result in a rape charge for the assailant.

Since many of these cases go unreported, it is difficult to file charges against individuals who can make this a routine. Poratta says that she tells men “you may get with it a few times, but if you don’t get away with it, you are a sexual predator for life; that is a heavy jacket to wear.” Men can protect themselves from being accused of a drug-facilitated sexual assault easily, “have sex sober” according to Poratta. Other preventative measures include the following:

Always get your own drink and watch it being poured.
Never leave your drink unattended. If you need to use the restroom and can't take your drink with you, leave it with a trusted friend—not a new date!

If your drink tastes funny, do not drink it. Dispose of it to keep others from drinking it.
Keep in mind that most drugs used to spike a drink are colorless and tasteless; therefore, keeping your drink within sight is paramount.
Be aware of how your friends are acting. If they seem more "out of it" than usual, be very wary and keep an eye out for them.

Even though it may be difficult to prevent date rape, it is never the victim's fault regardless of the outcome.