What is Chemsex?

ChemSex is when gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men use certain drugs in their sex lives. 

The most common drugs used in ChemSex are: -

  • Methamphetamine (crystal/crystal meth/Tina/meth)
  • Mephedrone (meph/drone/M-cat/meow-meow)
  • GHB/GBL (G, Gina)

These drugs are normally referred to as 'chems'.

These drugs play a specific role, making men feel less inhibited, more aroused and focused on the sex they are having. Some men use chems to help them deal with, or free themselves from the stigma and self-doubt they feel when having sex. Others feel that drugs enhance the sex they are having, making them feel euphoric and leading to better orgasms. Sex under the influence of chems can often last for many hours but it can prevent you from cumming despite a focus on trying to get that perfect orgasm. 

There are lots of ways that men engage in ChemSex. Some guys do it with a partner they have just hooked up with, others go to, or host, parties where there are lots of guys using chems and having sex with each other. Some guys use chems in venues like saunas, but this is less common in Scotland.

Guys looking for ChemSex often use social media websites or apps to meet other guys. Some guys may be quite open about the fact they are looking for ChemSex by using terms like H&H (high and horny), P&P (Party and Play), Chillout, or a capital T (for Tina, crystal meth) in their profile names or messages.

This section does not condone drug use. It is here to provide basic information on which drugs men take in ChemSex, so you can be informed and take care of yourself.

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