[The effects of flunitrazepam (rohypnol) on respiration (author's transl)]

The effects of flunitrazepam (0.03 mg/kg administered intravenously over a two-minute period) was investigated in 11 healthy volunteers with normal pulmonary function. Spirometer tracings were recorded continuously by the Siregnost FD 40 and blood gas measurements were performed by the Harnoncourt AVL gas analyzer. Flunitrazepam produced a characteristic cyclical hypoventilation/hyperventilation pattern lasting 15 min., followed by quiet sleeping rhythms. The duration of action was 20 min. There was a significant fall in PCO2, whilst the CO2 tension showed a significant rise. Changes in pH were in accordance with respiratory acidosis. Apnoea did not occur after the administration of flunitrazepam.