Chemsex is when people take drugs before or during sex. This is usually done to make sex feel stronger or last longer.

This page includes information and links to:

  • everything you need to know to help you stay safe. 
  • support if you’re thinking about making a change.
  • help you stop or stay stopped.

 

Chemsex is when people take drugs before or during sex. This is done to make sex feel stronger or last longer.

It is most common among some gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). But people of any gender or sexuality can take part.

The drugs most often used in Chemsex are:

  • Crystal meth
  • GHB or GBL
  • Mephedrone (M-CAT)

These drugs can make people feel more confident, close to others, and excited. But they can also affect how people think and make choices. This can lead to risks to health and safety.

People may take part for different reasons:

  • To improve sex
    The drugs can increase desire, pleasure, and energy.

  • To feel close to others
    Some people feel a strong sense of connection and belonging.

  • To feel less worried or shy
    The drugs can lower fear and help people feel more confident.

  • To escape or cope
    Some people use drugs to deal with stress, loneliness, or low mood.

Chemsex can carry serious risks.

Sexual health

People may be more likely to have sex without condoms. This can increase the risk of:

  • STIs
  • HIV
  • Hepatitis B and C

Injecting drugs ("slamming")

Some people inject drugs during Chemsex. This is called “slamming.”

Sharing needles or equipment can increase the risk of:

  • Blood-borne viruses
  • Infections and injuries

Overdose and physical health

  • Taking too much can lead to overdose
  • Mixing drugs is dangerous
  • People may become very unwell or lose consciousness

Mental health

After using drugs, some people may feel:

  • Anxious
  • Low or depressed
  • Paranoid
  • Unable to sleep

Dependence and addiction

Regular Chemsex can lead to addiction. This can affect:

  • Work
  • Money
  • Relationships
  • Daily life

Consent and safety

Drugs can affect thinking and memory. This may:

  • Make it hard to give or understand consent
  • Increase the risk of harm or unwanted sex

If you are worried about Chemsex, we are here to help you with:

  • Free and confidential advice
  • STI testing
  • HIV support
  • Reducing risks
  • Drug and alcohol use

You can also access support from the services below...

Newcastle Treatment and Recovery (NTaR)

NTaR covers all of drug and alcohol services within Newcastle and is an ageless service. 

Click the link for more information - Newcastle Treatment and Recovery (NTaR)

Tel: 0191 206 1117

Email: NTARreferrals@cntw.nhs.uk 

LGBT Foundation

National charity offering support, services, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ communities.

Helpline: 0345 3 30 30 30

Click the link for more information - Contact us - LGBT Foundation

Terrence Higgins Trust (THT)

You can find out more about how to stay safe using this link - Terrence Higgins Trust: Chemsex

  • Please click the link for information about how to use drugs more safely, how to recognise signs of overdose or withdrawal, and when and where to seek help - SDC4ALL Club Booklets — QueerHealth