The substances regarded as club drugs were originally intended to act as painkillers and anesthetics. For the most part ecstasy, ketamine, GHB, and Rohypnol have been discarded by physicians due to their side effects and potential for abuse. Nevertheless, the drugs have swept through rave culture and are now becoming substances of abuse in other segments of society as well. GHB, ketamine, and Rohypnol have also been employed for a far more sinister purpose; as date rape drugs. Author Hal Marcovitz presents a thorough history of club drugs, discussing abuse, the dangers of club drugs, and attempts to eliminate club drugs.