It can be difficult to identify whether your drink has been spiked, however it is useful to know about the signs and symptoms of spiking to identify them if this happens to you or a friend.
Signs and Symptoms of Spiking
If you think you or a friend have been spiked, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for, including:
If you think you or a friend have been spiked, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for, including:
- Confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Hallucinations and paranoia
- Disorientation or poor coordination
- Loss of ability to communicate properly
- Unconsciousness
As some of these symptoms are similar to what people experience through excessive alcohol consumption, sometimes spiking can be difficult to identify. However, if you start to feel strange or more drunk than you believe you should be, you must seek help straight away.
How do I seek help?
If you think you or a friend have been spiked, it’s important to make others aware straight away.
- Alert a member of staff or security if you’re at a venue.
- If you are not at a venue but are on campus, call security on 020 8223 5599 or contact them by using the SafeZone app.
- Report the spiking to the police by calling 999 or 101, or you can submit a report to the police online.
- Stay with your friend and keep talking to them.
- Don’t let your friend go home on their own or leave with someone you don’t know.
If you or someone else have symptoms and you are concerned it is a medical emergency:
- Call 111 for guidance and talk to a professional.
- Call an ambulance on 999 if symptoms are severe or get worse.