ABSTRACT

This chapter explains the study conducted in the United States (US) on club drug use, including ecstasy, crystal methamphetamine, ketamine and gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), that have focused on the epidemiology of their use. It discusses the media's coverage of club drug users that has provided images and some context to the numbers presented in the epidemiological data. The club drugs, such as GHB, crystal methamphetamine and methlenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) have been commonly used for their weight managing properties. The chapter explores to elucidate the complexity by offering interpretative accounts of club drug use among relatively affluent young people. It examines the norm regarding club drug using behaviors and the carnivalesque nature of the club drug-using experience. This chapter talks about the club kids all of whom would consider New York City clubs their homes discussed traveling to clubs in Las Vegas and Miami, as well as clubs in European cities such as London and Amsterdam.