A Guide to Chem Sex–Chasing the Ultimate (Enhanced) Orgasm

Throughout history, humankind has loved to search for treasure – whether that’s finding gold, conquering lands, or even discovering ways to multiply sexual intensity!

After all, what is a normal orgasm compared to Sexual Nirvana?

For millennia, we have been fascinated by the idea of achieving sexual bliss – something beyond just ejaculation and temporary euphoria.

When orgasm occurs, the combo rush of endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin (the “love drug”) is so intoxicating it can sometimes cause people to “leave their body”, see God, hallucinate, or achieve some kind of erotic trance.

Sometimes amazing sex keeps us in lousy, go-nowhere relationships that we don’t really want!

In fact, the search for the All-Powerful Orgasm has been around even before monotheistic religions came around. Multiple ancient cultures pursued and documented known aphrodisiacs like mandrake, bone soup, Lotus flower extract, wine mixed with opium, and myrrh, and, not to mention, intellectual stimulation, like the Kama Sutra and Tantric sex.

But who has time to try all 100+ Kama Sutra positions in this day and age? Who has time to practice Red, White and Black Tantra and achieve a mystical orgasm for hours on end?

It’s actually much easier to experience the God Orgasm when “chemically altered”, as in Chem Sex. Because in this case, all you really have to do is pop a pill, fool around with foreplay, and then wait until waves of pleasure overcome you and your partner(s) in a quaking, jaw-dropping feast of the senses.

But hey, there is definitely a right and wrong way to approach chem sex. And in this article, we’re not endorsing any practices or guaranteeing any results.

We will simply explain what chem sex is, how it works, and the drugs most people agree will heighten sex well beyond just another orgasm. We’ll also touch on some safety practices and common sense tips before you start jamming.

Let’s start by discussing what chem sex really means.

What is Chem Sex and What Does It Do?

Chem sex—short for “chemical sex”—refers to the intentional use of psychoactive drugs to enhance and prolong sexual activity, typically in group or party settings.

The practice is especially associated with our gay/bisexual male community, though it occurs across other communities as well.

Chem sex commonly involves using a specific set of drugs that alter consciousness, reduce inhibitions, and increase stamina or libido.

It’s not just that it enhances orgasm. You can also let go of inhibitions, make sex last longer, and experience orgasm in an altered state of consciousness. It’s the best sex you’ve ever had, because it’s not natural or normal. It’s something beyond.

What are Common “Chemsex” Drugs?

• Methamphetamine (“crystal meth”, “Tina”)
• GHB/GBL
• Mephedrone (“Meow Meow”, “M-CAT”)
• Ketamine

These substances are often used in combination, sometimes over extended sessions or “sex marathons”, which can last several hours or days, according to some sources.

Those sources? Why, of course, people who were really high and horny and who swear by it!

Seriously, though, is there any proof of chem sex actually working besides anecdotal evidence?

Yes—there is evidence that “chem sex” drugs have real, measurable effects on sexual behavior and experience.

However, the data comes from observational studies, qualitative research, and neuropharmacology, rather than specific clinical trials focused specifically on “chemsex” as a behavior. There are ethical concerns that probably wouldn’t allow any trials to take place.

And hey, it’s highly unlikely any serious team of researchers are going to study a couple of meth heads going at it for 24 hours!

But that said, here’s a breakdown of the scientific and behavioral evidence supporting how chem sex drugs influence sexuality:

1. Pharmacological Evidence of Chem Sex

Each of the drugs commonly used in chem sex has documented effects on sexual function, behavior, or inhibition, validated by both clinical and laboratory studies.

Methamphetamine

• Increases dopamine release, elevating pleasure and reward sensitivity.
• Causes hypersexuality in many users, including increased libido, sexual compulsivity, and prolonged arousal.
• Studies show that meth use is strongly associated with high-risk sexual behaviors, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM).

For example, A 2014 study in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that meth use significantly predicted increased frequency of condomless sex and multiple partners.

GHB/GBL

• Acts on GABA receptors, inducing euphoria, reduced social inhibition, and tactile pleasure.
• Small doses increase feelings of intimacy and sensuality—frequently cited as enhancing sexual pleasure.
• Has sedative properties that can diminish anxiety or shame, facilitating easier sexual expression for some users.

Mephedrone

• A stimulant that increases serotonin and dopamine, similar to MDMA.
• Associated with enhanced tactile sensations, emotional openness, and sexual arousal.
• A 2011 study published in Addiction noted mephedrone’s popularity in sexualized party settings due to its mood- and libido-enhancing effects.

MDMA (“Molly”) 

• A stimulant similar to Mephedrone, but known for enhancing emotional intimacy
• Also associated with increased empathy, emotional openness, and touch sensitivity
• Often used for bonding with new friends, or in group sex
• Not known for physical sexual enhancement – it can actually delay arousal and orgasm
• Only lasts a few hours, compared to “all day drugs”

Behavioral & Epidemiological Studies

There does appear to be a high correlation with certain drugs and sexual activity.

A 2016 study in The Lancet HIV found that 60% of men engaging in chem sex reported longer sexual sessions, an increased number of partners, and reduced inhibition during encounters.

Public Health England and other European studies consistently find a strong link between drug use and sexual behavior changes, including longer duration, group sex, and diminished condom use.

There are also self-reported outcomes (validated surveys) that we have to take seriously, such as surveys from gay and bisexual men across Europe and Australia. Many respondents claim they experience increased pleasure, greater sexual confidence, and the ability to perform sexually for extended periods.

While self-reports are subjective, the consistency across multiple populations and studies gives these findings credibility.

Of course, there are limitations to compiling evidence. There are ethical and legal constraints that would not allow randomized controlled trials on “chem sex” experiments.

It’s also important to keep in mind that effects vary significantly with many individuals because of differences in dosage, individual psychology, drug combinations, and context.

Yes, context, as in the sex that a suddenly uninhibited shy person in a nightclub might have after trying ecstasy, would be different from someone who uses ketamine on a daily basis with his usual partner.

Would Hard Psychedelics Bring Better Chem Sex?

Ever heard of “Jedi flipping?” This is known as a popular party and play drug cocktail, and mixes  MDMA (ecstasy), LSD (acid), and psilocybin (magic mushrooms).

It’s often mentioned but rarely talked about in a clinical setting, and probably because it’s discouraged by most medical authorities for obvious reasons.

Like, extremely dangerous mixing of illegal narcotics!

While it is possible to have pleasurable sex on psychedelics like psilocybin (magic mushrooms) or LSD (acid), they are not typically classified as “chem sex” drugs in the way the term is commonly understood.

Psychedelics aren’t typically considered chem sex compatible. Chem sex refers to the intentional use of specific stimulant or sedative drugs to enhance and prolong sex, often in group settings.

Theoretically, good sex requires something altogether different than a distortion of reality. For instance, people in general have better sex when they have:

• Lower inhibitions
• More libido and energy
• Greater physical sensation
• Prolonged sexual activity

Psychedelics tend to produce the opposite effect in the human body. They do not reliably enhance libido or arousal.

They actually increase moods of introspection, not sociability. Yes, the gift of gab before, during, and after sex is more important.

Psychedelics can also make sexual touch either intensely meaningful or very awkward and even dysphoric, depending on one’s mindset. And in that case, sex would be difficult to coordinate and may even lead to a disorienting experience.

Remember also that using psychedelics can lead to difficulty with delayed or absent arousal, difficulty with consent clarity, and even body distortion or emotional disconnection.

Chem Sex Safety Reminders

While it’s always fun to discuss out-of-this-world orgasms and party culture, it’s very important to include safety reminders.

Engaging in chemsex comes with significant risks. But there are ways to reduce harm and stay safer, both physically and emotionally.

Whether someone participates occasionally or regularly, understanding and applying safety strategies can help preserve health, agency, and consent.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to safety considerations for chemsex, broken into categories:

Know Your Substances

• Research the effects, dosages, duration, and interactions of the drugs you use.
• Be aware of what you’re taking—test your substances if possible (especially GHB/GBL, which can vary in concentration).

Avoid Mixing Dangerous Combos

• GHB/GBL + Alcohol = highly dangerous, increases risk of unconsciousness or death.
• Meth + Erectile drugs (Viagra, etc.) = risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Multiple stimulants (e.g. meth + mephedrone) = can overwhelm the cardiovascular system.

Dose Control

• Use small, measured doses, especially with GHB (the margin between euphoric and unconscious is very thin).
• Use timers or logs to track when you last dosed—GHB redosing too soon is a major overdose risk.

Administration Methods

• Avoid injecting (“slamming”) unless absolutely necessary:
  • Use new, sterile needles
  • Never share equipment
  • Know the signs of overdose and infection
• Nasal or oral routes carry fewer risks

What About Mental Health & Consent?

It is far more difficult to give consent or ask for consent while intoxicated.

Safely approaching chem sex would require Pre-Negotiated Consent, while also keeping an eye on your partner(s) for signs of vulnerability and emotional pain.

Remember these tips on being a conscientious lover (if and when tripping balls):

• Discuss boundaries and desires while sober, before the session starts.
• Know what you’re open to—and not—and communicate clearly.
• Have reliable partner(s) who can help keep things grounded.
• Be cautious in group settings where others, including strangers, may be impaired.
• Be mindful of comedowns, which can involve depression, anxiety, paranoia, guilt, etc.
• Plan for aftercare, including food, sleep, hydration, and emotional support.
• Always use condoms and PrEP (for HIV prevention) if partners haven’t been tested.
• Get tested regularly for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
• Lube helps reduce friction and lowers the risk of injury or transmission.
• Know where to get PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) within 72 hours if a risky exposure occurs.
• Seek medical attention if you experience unusual symptoms during or after the session.
• Let a trusted friend/relative know where you’re going to be
• If something feels unsafe, leave or call for help!
• Have water, food, condoms, and a safe space to rest.
• Try to party and play with people you know and trust, or at least vet them carefully.
• Set “no redose” agreements or buddy systems to avoid unconsciousness or overdose.

Wow, that’s pretty heavy stuff. Let’s assume you’re going to be as safe as possible and talk about some of the more brainy aspects of chem sex, including how and when it all started.

A History of Chemsex in Queer and Party Culture

Yes, there is a history to chemsex, though the term itself is relatively new, mostly a 2000s expression.

The practice of using drugs to enhance sex has deep roots in LGBTQ+ culture. The modern idea of chem sex evolved from the intersection of club drug culture, HIV/AIDS-era sexual politics, and urban gay life.

Origins in Queer and Party Culture 

You might say that the birth of the party and play scene was Post-Stonewall, a time considered as the gay liberation era.

Following the Stonewall Riots (1969), there was a surge in sexual freedom within gay communities, especially in cities like New York, San Francisco, and London.

Sex clubs, bathhouses, and cruising culture flourished, while drugs like amyl nitrite (“poppers”) became widely used. By the 1970s and into the 1980s, gay party culture increased with the disco and club scene, with MDMA (ecstasy), LSD, and quaaludes appearing at parties.

When the 1980s came, the AIDS crisis dramatically altered gay sexual culture, leading many party types to leave behind the PNP lifestyle and to be more cautious or even celibate until the threat was contained.

On the other hand, some went the opposite direction and sought out despair-fueled hedonism, which is right about the time Crystal meth (methamphetamine) became popular by the 1990s.

The modern “chem sex scene” (post-2000s) first seemed to gain momentum in the UK public health sector.

Drugs like meth, GHB/GBL, and mephedrone made headlines in London and then later international cities like Berlin, Sydney, and New York, but many medical and government authorities decried the scene as a behavioral health issue, and spoke of the dangers of overdosing. As the 2000s progressed, Geospatial dating apps (like Grindr) enabled easier hookups and group sex, which coincided with more party drugs. Drugs were also becoming easier to source online, which explains why, for some, the party never really ended.

FAQs About Chem Sex and Party Drugs

Still have questions about chem sex and its risks? Keep reading.

Is chem sex really dangerous?

Frankly, yes, chem sex can be really dangerous – but it depends on what substances you’re using, how much, and what kind of sexual feats we’re talking about.

Obviously, chem sex that involves Methamphetamine (crystal meth), GHB/GBL (gamma-hydroxybutyrate/gamma-butyrolactone), and Mephedrone is the most potentially dangerous.

It is very easy to overdose and die on GHB. Meth and mephedrone can lead to heart attacks, seizures, or long-term brain damage. You also have to consider the risk of dehydration and hyperthermia. Extended PNP sessions and stimulant use can cause dangerous overheating.

Chem sex also increases the risk of HIV contraction and other STIs because of unprotected sex, group sex, and needle sharing when certain drugs.

If you’re going to experiment with drugs that come with a risk of overdose or permanent organ damage, you have to play it safe and use them cautiously – even if you feel OK early on in the night.

Why do gay men like chemsex, anyway?

While the obvious answer is a much more intense sexual and mental high, there are also other reasons why the gay community likes chem sex.

Losing all inhibitions does feel wonderful, especially if you are a shy person or have struggled with sexual repression due to trauma, and or a conservative upbringing.

Losing all anxiety, and enjoying sex without guilt or body distortion, or fear of consequence, is also a high that many people don’t understand – unless you’ve tried chem sex, or have always had the gift of high self-confidence.

In fact, the main reason why many people want to try chem sex is because they want to experience sex “as another person,” either by altering their natural mood or even by pushing their bodies beyond what is normal.

What are safer alternatives to chemsex?

Since the basic meaning of “chemsex” is consuming drugs to enhance sexual activity, any mind-altering substance can be used for sexual enhancement

Viagra might be counted in chemsex drugs, not to mention wine and cannabis gummies.

Wine and marijuana would be considered “safer” if less profound drugs that alter one’s state of mind. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, while some users report that marijuana can enhance sexual desire. 

However, both of these “safer” drugs can also work against libido, the more you consume. Moderate doses of THC and alcohol tend to relax a person and improve pleasure, stamina, and enjoyment.

But consuming too much can affect sexual performance and may even lead to mood changes, which can kill the good vibes.

The entire point of chemsex is to go beyond just relaxation or the “mild buzz” associated with lighter drugs.

This makes it potentially very intense, but also increases the risk of physical or mental injury.

Can Chemsex lead to addiction?

Yes, critics of chemsex often repeat that physical risks aside, the mental and emotional turmoil of chemsex should be taken seriously.

Not only are some chemsex drugs physically addictive (Meth & GHB), but they can also be mentally addictive. They can cause intense cravings for binging on sex and drugs, which escalates tolerance and dependence.

It’s also possible for a person to become addicted to the combination of sex and drugs. A psychosexual chemsex addiction would make it impossible to enjoy sex without drugs, or to feel confident and sexy without the high.

Even worse, some people will repeat the dangerous chemsex cycle to escape feelings of shame, loneliness, or mental traumas of the past.

What is the chem sex come-down?

The chem sex come-down refers to the “drop” of chem sex, after the good sex and drugs wear off.

Not only will some be left with feelings of depression, anxiety, psychosis, or paranoia, but some will experience severe withdrawal-like symptoms.

Mental addiction itself can also be dangerous because, in these instances, a person will invent poor and destructive coping mechanisms rather than facing challenges in a healthy or productive way.

Where can I get support if I am struggling with chem sex addiction?

While not all chem sex is dangerous or addictive, the most common scenarios of chem sex drug binging and practicing unsafe sex are very dangerous. 

Chem sex addiction has plagued the gay community for a long time. Unfortunately, many people will deny their addiction or not seek help when help is available. 

If you are struggling with addiction, then reach out to the community. In addition to drug rehabilitation facilities, there are also peer support groups, LGBTQIA+ targeted counseling, and anonymous online community groups for support and discussion.

Here are some support resources to consider:

• David Stuart / Dean Street (UK-based but internationally relevant)
• Controlling Chemsex (Terrence Higgins Trust)
• Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous
• Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
• Positive Choices – Australia

Life is the Best High of All

No one can blame people for thinking bigger than just the same old orgasm. The desire to have and feel more is what leads humankind to great discoveries.

But while “light” chem sex might be fun and harmless, it can also be a gateway into something darker and more dangerous.

Many in the gay community struggle with issues of childhood trauma, loss of family or identity, and homophobia locally and politically.

For many of us, it’s not just about sex or drugs—it’s about intimacy, marginalization, and the desire to belong and be part of the community.

The more we seek to escape our problems with extreme mood enhancements, the more we lose ourselves. The more we lose the point of life, and sex, and everything pleasurable.

There is no real pleasure when one’s life is consumed by chasing a high that keeps flying farther and farther away.

Yes, we do like our quick fixes today, don’t we? But there is something heroic, or even stoic, about investing more time and practice and learning new skills.

Tantric sex, sensate focus, Kama Sutra, and meditation are all “safe drugs” that merely involve using your mind and body in a different way, to experience something completely different than the norm.

The investment may be great, but the rewards are a safer high that you have more control over.

Whatever you decide to do, don’t give up on life. Every new and interesting thing we try should be to enhance the life we love, and not to escape a life we don’t want.

Take care of yourselves and keep the party going.