Chemsex risks

The consumption of chemsex can have a disinhibiting, pleasure-increasing and exciting effect on the sexual experience. But at the same time, chemsex carries a variety of different risks. On this page, we have summarized some important information about the risks of chemsex use in a sexual context. In addition, our website provides further information for risk – reduction!

The risks to your own mental health

Consumed substances can cause or intensify anxiety during use. Likewise, insecurities or delusions can occur. Under certain circumstances, consumption can lead to a loss of control or even to a blackout – as a result, the user can no longer independently influence the situation in which they find themselves.

Important for users: Always consume only as much as you enjoy, without losing control. Dose carefully and do not top up! In any case, note down what you have consumed and in which dose!

Depressive episodes and sometimes even psychosis can also occur after consumption. The wearing off of the effects can lead to psychological stress and promote anxiety. Therefore, it is important to make sure that one is in a safe environment.

The risks to your own physical health

Besides the risk of overdose, which is a life-threatening emergency situation, chemistries have different short- and longer-term effects on your physical condition.

Important for users: Always inform yourself in advance about the chemicals you want to consume! One way to do this is to visit the website www.checkyourdrugs.at.

Another risk is drug interactions: The combination of some substances, can have severe effects and in the worst case fatal (e.g. GHB or ketamine and alcohol).

Important for users: Do not mix substances when consuming!

Consumption risks

Using hypodermic needles or sniff tubes together with other persons carries a high risk of transmitting HIV and hepatitis. “Safer use” should therefore always have top priority! More on this can be found here on our website: Safer Use & Safer Sex Packs

Important for users: Always pay attention to the safer use rules!

It is also important to remain vigilant after use: If infections occur at the injection sites, a doctor must be consulted quickly so that consequential damage can be avoided.

Risks during sex under the influence of Chems

Sexuality becomes riskier under the influence of Chems: The substances usually have a socially opening, disinhibiting and also pain-reducing effect. As a result, sex becomes harder and longer, can be performed with more people, for example, and practices can be tried that would not be an option in a sober state. This is precisely why consensus is always important – both for ourselves and for everyone else involved!

Important for users: Take care of yourself and others! NO must remain NO! This is especially true when a person involved can no longer express consensus – you must always intervene when you notice that someone feels uncomfortable!

Sex under the influence of Chems leads more easily to injuries. In addition, unprotected sex occurs more frequently. This massively increases the likelihood of infections such as HIV and hepatitis, but also syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia.

Important for users: Have regular checkups. You can find out more about this here: https://aids.at/tests-und-beratung/testangebote/

Risks due to interaction with medication

A particular risk with chemsex is the possible interaction of the substances consumed with medications. Particularly with some HIV medications, the risk increases.

Important for users: Inform yourself before use whether and which interactions are to be expected!

If you take medication regularly, any interactions and dangers should be discussed with the doctor treating you. Your own safety comes first!

Further information on possible interactions with HIV medications is summarized here:https://www.hiv-druginteractions.org/checker