Chemsex means using drugs to enhance or prolong sex, most often among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. The drugs usually named are mephedrone, GHB and GBL, and crystal methamphetamine. The risks are real and can be fatal, particularly with GHB and GBL, and help is available without judgement. This guide explains the term, what PnP means in an escort advert, the law and where to get support.
What it means
“Chemsex” is the usual word. “Party and play”, written PnP, is the shorthand in profiles and adverts, and means drugs are used or tolerated. “Chems” are the drugs, and “slamming” is injecting them.
The drugs and the risks
- GHB and GBL. Sedatives. The gap between a dose that works and one that causes unconsciousness is small, and it narrows further with alcohol. Never take them alone, never with alcohol, and never leave someone who has taken them on their own.
- Mephedrone. A stimulant that raises heart rate and blood pressure.
- Crystal methamphetamine. A stimulant that can keep sessions going for days, with sleep loss and mental health effects.
- Injecting. Raises the risk of HIV and hepatitis if equipment is shared.
Drugs also affect consent. Someone who is too intoxicated cannot consent, and that applies to every person in the room.
If someone is unresponsive, call 999, put them in the recovery position and stay with them. Tell the ambulance crew what they took.
The law
Crystal methamphetamine is a Class A drug, mephedrone is Class B, and GHB and GBL are Class C. Possession is an offence, and supplying is more serious. Sex is not a defence for any of it.
Chemsex and escort adverts
A profile that says PnP or “chem friendly” is telling you drugs may be involved. An escort is entitled to refuse them, and so are you. A booking is not a reason to take drugs, and anyone who pressures you to is not respecting your consent. Gay escorts and gay massage covers the wider picture.
Getting help
- Antidote. A service from London Friend for LGBT+ people who want advice or support with drugs and alcohol, on 020 7833 1674.
- ChemsexSupport.com. Information and support run by 56 Dean Street.
- FRANK. The national drugs helpline, on 0300 123 6600.
- Sexual health clinics. They offer testing, PEP and PrEP, and a conversation without judgement.
STI testing in London explains how to get tested, and safety and help lists the other contacts.