“Chemsex” in MSM Associated with Increased Risk for HIV, Hepatitis C, and Bacterial STIs

MSM who disclosed chemsex participation had markedly increased rates of new HIV, hepatitis C, and bacterial sexually transmitted infections.

Chemsex — defined as the use of methamphetamine, mephedrone, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), cocaine, or ketamine to facilitate sex — has become popular among some gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Anecdotal evidence has linked chemsex to an increased risk for HIV infection, but minimal published data document the association. This retrospective case review was conducted for all GBMSM attending two London sexual health clinics between June 2014 and July 2015.

Chemsex status was documented for 1734 of 1840 patients. Recreational drug use was noted for 27% (n=463); 16.5% (n= 286) participated in chemsex; and 18% (74 of 409) injected drugs. Chemsex participants were significantly more likely to …

Reviewing Author

Keith Henry, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardViiV Advisory Board

Editorial BoardsJAIDS: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes

Keith Henry, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardViiV Advisory Board

Editorial BoardsJAIDS: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes

“Chemsex” in MSM Associated with Increased Risk for HIV, Hepatitis C, and Bacterial STIs

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Reviewing Author