Chemsex is a term used by gay or bisexual men to describe sex that occurs under the influence of drugs.

The drugs most commonly associated with chemsex are crystal methamphetamine, GHB/GBL, mephedrone, cocaine and ketamine.

With the exception of ketamine and GHB/GBL these are stimulant drugs which means that they increase heart rate and blood pressure and trigger feelings of euphoria. Crystal methamphetamine, GHB/GBL and mephedrone are also reported to facilitate feelings of sexual arousal.

There is some concern that the use of crystal meth, GHB/GBL and mephedrone may be raising the risk that STIs and HIV could be transmitted.

A full exploration of the role, nature and risks of Chemsex in South London can be downloaded here

Updated December 2016