Scientists invent 'temporary tattoo' to guard against drink spiking

Scientists have developed a “temporary tattoo” that could prevent drink spiking by detecting the presence of a drug in one second. The tattoo-like sticker detects the presence of GHB — a fast-acting nervous system depressant often used in cases of date rape and sexual assault.

The wearer can dip their finger into a beverage, then touch a drop onto the sticker. A chemical receptor on the sticker turns red if GHB is present, even at levels below that needed to cause serious symptoms.

When tested with samples from a number of different alcoholic beverages including whiskey, vodka and beer, the sticker was able to detect as little as 0.01 micrograms of GHB in 1ml of beverage.

Researchers in South Korea, led by Sungkyunkwan University, hope the cheap technology could be commercially available soon.

Writing in the journal ACS Sensors, they said: “As drug trafficking has become widespread, news about illegal drug use has appeared in daily news.

“The drug used for date rape is odourless, colourless, and tasteless, which can be completely dissolved in beverages to avoid suspicion.

“However, this drug causes confusion, amnesia, dysmetria, and may even lead to unconsciousness in a short time.”

The experts added that their tattoo could be a “crucial tool in preventing drug-facilitated sexual assault by offering a proactive solution for GHB detection and empowering potential victims to safeguard themselves”.

A positive result remains on the sticker for up to 30 days after detection, provision evidence of drink tampering.

Symptoms of GHB spiking include disorientation, loss of coordination, drowsiness, confusion, and memory loss.