If you think you or a friend has been spiked, tell a member of staff straight away, stop drinking, stay with someone you trust and get medical help. Call 999 if the person is very unwell, unconscious or has trouble breathing. Report it to the police as soon as you can: some substances leave the body within hours, so early tests matter.
Updated 26 September 2026 · Sources: GOV.UK spiking guidance, Drinkaware, Crime and Policing Act 2026, Institute of Licensing
What are the signs of being spiked?
Signs can include feeling far more drunk than you should for what you have had, confusion, loss of balance, feeling sick or vomiting, problems with vision, drowsiness, and in serious cases unconsciousness. Memory loss for part of the night is common. Symptoms can start within 15 to 30 minutes. If a friend suddenly seems much worse than their drinking explains, treat it as possible spiking.
Spiking: what to do, by situation
How do I report spiking to the police?
In an emergency call 999. Otherwise call 101 or report online to the local police force where it happened. Report as soon as you can, because some drugs leave the body in less than 12 hours, although police can still test up to 7 days after an incident. Tell the police if you still have the drink or a sample. You should report even if you are not sure, even if a test comes back negative, and even if time has passed.
Is spiking a crime in the UK?
Yes. Spiking has always been prosecuted under existing laws, such as the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. Section 134 of the Crime and Policing Act 2026, which received Royal Assent on 29 April 2026, replaces the old offence with a new offence of administering a harmful substance, including by spiking, with a maximum sentence of 10 years. It covers spiking drinks, food, vapes and needle spiking. At the time of writing that section has not yet been brought into force, so charges still use the older laws until it is.
How can I reduce the risk of being spiked?
Spiking is always the fault of the person who does it, never the person who is spiked.
Frequently asked questions
Medical staff focus on treating you. Evidential testing for a police investigation is usually arranged through the police, which is why reporting quickly matters.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Spiking advice and support
- Drinkaware: Drink spiking and date rape drugs
- legislation.gov.uk: Crime and Policing Act 2026, section 134
- Institute of Licensing: New spiking offence
- Rape Crisis England & Wales: 24/7 Support Line
- Victim Support: Supportline
General safety information, not medical or legal advice. In an emergency, always call 999.
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