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Read about the different types of sexual health conditions including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV and AIDS. You can also get information on contraception and abortion.

Chemsex

Chemsex means using drugs as part of your sex life. It’s most common among men who have sex with men, but it is also becoming more common among people having heterosexual sex and people identifying as LGBTQ+.

People engage in chemsex for different reasons; for some it makes them less inhibited and increases pleasure, while others take part in chemsex to address issues in their sex life and self-esteem.

There are typically three specific drugs involved: 

  1. Methamphetamine: This is a stimulant also known as crystal meth, crystal, meth, tina and crank.
  2. Mephedrone: This is a stimulant also known as meph, drone or meow meow.
  3. Gammahydroxybutyrate (GHB) and Gammabutyrolactone (GBL): There are sedatives and they're also known as G, gina, geebs and liquid ecstasy.

Are you worried about your drug, alcohol or chems use?

Antidote is the UK’s only LGBTQ+ run and targeted drug and alcohol support service. The organisation offers one-on-one services and group work, as well as drop-in sessions each week.