Chemsex is when people use certain drugs before or during sex. They may do this to make sex last longer or feel more enjoyable. 

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 use certain drugs before or during sex. They may do this to make sex last longer or feel more enjoyable.

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, excited or give them more energy. However, they can also make it harder to think clearly and stay safe. 

People may take part for different reasons:

  • To improve sex
    Some drugs can increase sexual feelings, pleasure, and energy.

  • To feel close to others
    Some people feel accepted, connected, or less lonely.

  • 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 other injecting equipment can increase the risk of:

  • Blood-borne viruses
  • Infections and injuries

Overdose and physical health

Taking too much of a drug, mixing different drugs, or not knowing how strong a drug is can be dangerous.

This can lead to:

  • Serious illness
  • Losing consciousness
  • Overdose
  • In some cases, death

Mental health

Using drugs can affect a person's mental health.

Some people experience:

  • Anxiety
  • Low mood
  • Depression
  • Paranoia
  • Problems sleeping

Dependence and addiction

Using drugs regularly can lead to dependence or addiction. This can affect:

  • Work or education
  • Money
  • Relationships
  • Daily life

Consent and safety

Drugs can affect thinking, memory, judgement and decision-making. This may:

  • Make it hard to make safe choices or give clear consent
  • Increase the risk of harm or unwanted sexual experiences.

If you are worried about Chemsex, sexual health, or wellbeing, we are here to help you with:

  • Free and confidential advice
  • STI testing
  • HIV prevention and treatment support
  • Information about staying safe 
  • Referrals to drug and alcohol support services. 

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