ABSTRACT
Chemsex, the act of taking certain drugs in a sexual setting between men who have sex with men, has the propensity to affect the user’s nutritional status. This occurs through two main mechanisms: the direct drug effects and more indirect aspects of chemsex. Direct drug effects include their anorectic properties and increased energy expenditure due to increased libido and stamina. Indirect impacts include lack of access to food, reduced intake prior to the session to facilitate “cleanliness,” and the risk of altered blood glucose levels. The extent of impact will likely be dependent on the frequency and duration of chemsex participation, the extent of drug use, and the participants’ baseline nutritional status.
