Added value

Chemsex is often perceived as hotter and kinkier. During chemsex, multiple substances are often combined. Under the influence of uppers like cocaine, ecstasy, MDMA, speed or crystal meth boundaries are shifted, and orgasm is delayed, meaning that sex can last for a long time. When mixed with downers such as GHB, GBL and ketamine, sex is perceived as more intense.

In the Netherlands in particular, the use of crystal meth and injecting drug use among MSM is increasing steadily. Crystal meth, or ‘tina’, is typically used during a sex date or sex party in a private setting. Tina is by far the most powerful stimulant available on the European drug market. The use gives an intense euphoria, especially when slammed. But because the comedown can take days and is often accompanied by intense craving, the temptation is sometimes irresistible, and many men find it difficult to maintain control over its use.

Tina and slamming in a sexual setting

Over 2014 and 2015, Mainline carried out research into the use of tina and slamming in sexual settings. Before this, neither phenomena among MSM had ever been investigated or studied in the Netherlands. This research led to the identification report "Tina and Slamming” written by Mainline in collaboration with Soa Aids Netherlands. The report is based on Dutch statistical data, a literature review and 27 in-depth interviews with MSM who use crystal meth. In addition, professionals who work with MSM were interviewed. However, due to the limited number of statistically relevant figures, there is still little known about the prevalence of crystal meth use and injecting drug use among the Dutch MSM population.

Into trouble

Mainline found that a large group of gay men consciously use drugs in a safe and controlled manner and don’t face any serious health or sexual problems. Yet a growing number of men face both social and health problems due to chemsex. They regularly contend with physical complaints such as insomnia, decreased resistance and weight loss as well as mental problems such as anxiety, depression, psychosis and even suicidal tendencies.

Chemsex meetings

For the past two years, Mainline has organised fortnightly meetings for gay and bisexual men who use drugs during sex, as well as meetings for men who want to use drugs more and for men who have now have stopped chemsex. Mainline provides a safe environment where men can talk about the responsible use of chems, or life without chemsex. Mainline provides information and gives support in aid of reducing possible health damage. 

Awareness material for MSM
Mainline has developed a brochure containing practical information about safe and responsible slamming, reducing the risk of psychosis and softening the comedown (hangover) Two booklets about chemsex have also appeared. For more information, please visit our webshop.

Website sexntina.nl
In 2018, Mainline and SOA AIDS Netherlands launched a website for men who have sex with men (MSM) who use crystal meth (and other drugs) used in a sexual setting. The site is both informative for the target group and professionals. See: https://sexntina.nl/en/ 

Chemsex and professionals
Mainline focuses on improving support for men who are affected by chemsex. We focus on increasing knowledge and understanding among professionals and think about developing effective strategies to help professionals in their wok. We offer professionals custom made presentations and training in the health and addiction sector, organise expert meetings, host networking meetings etc. For more information, check our training page.