Methamphetamine Use in the Gay Community
Despite the potential for very serious short- and long-term consequences, methamphetamines have been used and abused by students, soldiers, truck drivers, executives, and others throughout the past century in an effort to increase their focus and productivity, which methamphetamines are reported to do (For more historical information, see our article on Past and Present Use of Amphetamines). Also called crank, tina, meth, crystal, and speed, methamphetamines are gaining in popularity among the gay community at a rate that has alarmed healthcare professionals and public health agents. Awareness of this issue is an important step toward decreasing the problem and preventing the consequences of prolonged abuse and addiction in this group.
How does methamphetamine work?
Methamphetamine is an altered form of amphetamines, which are, in turn, modified forms of substances that are found in natural food products. These modifications, however, change the way the body interacts with the substance. Meth is a central nervous system stimulant that produces feelings of focus and euphoria, which can last up to 15 hours. Users administer the substance by smoking, injecting, or snorting it. For more information on methamphetamine addiction, detox, rehab, and recovery, visit the methamphetamine page.
Why is methamphetamine increasing in popularity among the gay community?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, HIV transmission has been closely linked to methamphetamine abuse over the past decade, especially in California. In March of this year, California began an $11 million awareness campaign to discourage gay men from using methamphetamine. The Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian center reported that 25% of those who completed testing for HIV at their center had also used methamphetamine. A similar center in San Francisco found that 1 in 3 gay or bisexual men who came in for HIV testing were also users or abusers of methamphetamine. Abuse of this powerful substance and its relationship to HIV transmission and other serious complications among the gay community has clearly attracted the attention of policy makers and healthcare professionals alike.
Methamphetamine is especially popular in the community of men-who-have-sex-with-other-men (MSM). The drug decreases inhibitions and increases self-esteem and confidence, which is a dangerous combination that leads to sexual risk-taking that includes from more frequent and longer unprotected sex with often anonymous partners. Methamphetamine use has also been associated with increased willingness to play a receptive role in anal sex; this position is at a greater risk for contracting HIV. Some users claim that methamphetamine enhances the sexual experience by increasing pleasure, and enables them to engage in intercourse for more extensive periods of time. Even so, studies suggest that high doses of meth can actually decrease the duration of an erection.
What are the short- and long-term risks of methamphetamine use?
In the short term, methamphetamine use decreases inhibitions, which may lead to engaging in risky sexual behaviors. Prolonged use of methamphetamine can cause paranoia, permanent brain damage, tooth decay, heart attack, stroke, and seizures. Additionally, research indicates that the presence of meth in the body decreases the immune system’s effectiveness at fighting HIV and may adversely affect retroviral HIV treatments.
What should I do if I suspect or know that someone is abusing methamphetamines?
A study conducted at UCLA and published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse indicated that behavioral therapy can significantly reduce meth abuse as well as the associated risky sexual behaviors. Treatment is enormously important to the complete recovery of an addict. If you suspect or know that a friend, family member, or partner is abusing or addicted to methamphetamine, we encourage you to call eDrug Rehab today. Our Intervention Specialists can guide you in the process of arranging an intervention, choosing a treatment facility, and preparing for the often challenging road to recovery. Because we realize that addiction is emotionally trying for everyone involved and that recovery doesn’t happen overnight, we will be available to answer questions, and provide support and advice throughout the entire process. Visit the contact us page for more information.
