What Is Chemsex?

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What is chemsex?

Chemsex is the process of using addictive drugs to enhance sex. 

Although primarily associated with men who have sex with men, chemsex has become a catch-all term used anytime people use recreational drugs to become sexually adventurous.

What does chemsex mean?

Chemsex means intentional sex under illicit substance influence, used by gay and bisexual men to achieve the desired "feeling," before engaging in sexual behavior.

According to the British Medical Journal, those who use chemsex drugs sustain arousal for hours and feel instant rapport with different sexual partners.

What are chemsex drugs?

  • Methamphetamine 
  • Mephedrone 
  • Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
  • Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)
  • Ketamine
  • Crystal methamphetamine
  • Nitrous oxide (or laughing gas)
  • What Are The Risks Of Chemsex?

    Bacterial Infections

    • Gonorrhoea
    • Chlamydia 
    • Hepatitis 

    Anal injuries

    • Piles 
    • Rectal prolapse 
    • Anal fissures 

    Negative Effects From Chemsex Drugs

    •  Impaired decision making
    • Chaotic sexual encounters with no sexual boundaries
    • Issues of sexual consent
    • Cause suicidal tendencies
    • Paranoia leading to psychosis
    • Long-term mental health issues 
    • Police involvement and criminal prosecution 
    • Overdose and death

    Ketamine in particular carries a high risk of psychosis during withdrawal - ketamine detox should always be medically supervised, accordingly.

    Chemsex and HIV

    The risk of HIV is high at chemsex parties because most of these parties are held by groups of people who are HIV positive or who do not know their HIV status.

    Does chemsex represent a risk of addiction?

    Yes. Any drug use has the risk of addiction, and is dangerous when it becomes an obsession and part of your social scene. 

    About the author

    Laura Morris

    Laura Morris is an experienced clinical practitioner and CQC Registered Manager with over twenty years experience, over ten of which have been as an Independent Nurse Prescriber.

    She has held a number of senior leadership roles in the substance use and mental health sector in the NHS, the prison service and in leading social enterprises in the field.

    Last Updated: March 30, 2026