Drink spiking abroad: get help early
If a drink or a sudden change in how you feel worries you, tell someone you trust and seek help. You do not need proof before asking.
If you suddenly feel much more unwell, confused or impaired than you expected, tell a trusted companion or senior venue staff member straight away. Stop drinking and seek help. You do not need to work out what happened before asking someone to stay with you.
Spiking can involve added alcohol as well as drugs. The NHS guidance on spiking explains that symptoms alone cannot establish the cause. Taking an unexpected reaction seriously is more useful than trying to diagnose it in a noisy bar.
If someone needs urgent care
Call the local emergency number if the person is unconscious, has breathing difficulties or is seriously unwell. 112 reaches emergency services throughout the EU. Follow the operator's instructions and stay with the person. Do not let them leave alone or with somebody you do not trust.
For less clear symptoms, seek prompt medical advice rather than assuming a night's sleep will solve it. Tell healthcare staff about anything consumed and any suspected assault or injury. Do not delay treatment while trying to arrange a drug test.
Hospital tests and police evidence collection are different processes. The North Tees NHS information explains that routine emergency care does not necessarily include substance testing. Local arrangements abroad vary.
Help a friend without blaming them
Listen, stay calm and help them reach a safe place with appropriate care. If possible, note the venue, approximate time and people who may have seen what happened. Preserve a drink or receipt if that can be done safely, but do not put evidence ahead of the person's wellbeing.
After immediate care, help them contact local police or victim-support services if they wish. Reporting promptly can matter for evidence. A consulate can explain local support for its nationals.
For an evening out, agree how you will get home and avoid leaving a friend behind unexpectedly. These arrangements can help, but responsibility for spiking belongs to the person who does it. Read getting home at night for the transport side of the plan.