Top Tips for safer drug use.
'Popular' drugs are illegal and often carry heavy penalties for possession, using, and selling or buying.
Using any drug involves risks and taking more or mixing drugs increases the risks. Mixing drugs (particularly with alcohol) may make the effects of other drugs seem different or weak, which could lead to you taking too much, and some drug combinations are deadly.
We quickly develop tolerance to party drugs and our bodies will appreciate the chance of a break to recover. You'll get more out of your drugs if you don't take them every week.
If you're taking a prescribed medicine, it's only sensible that your drugs don't mess that up. It's important not to miss or change doses set by your doctor, particularly with HIV treatment drugs such as protease inhibitors.
Eat before you go out. Something high in carbohydrates for energy (eg pasta) and vitamin-packed (such as fresh fruit and veg) will help prepare your body.
Take a 'disco-nap' before going out.
Wear lightweight (non-nylon) clothes, don't wear hats or caps, and, if you can, take warmer clothing/change of clothes with you for when you leave.
Clubs can get very crowded and extremely hot. This can cause you problems like dehydration, serious over-heating, and heat exhaustion - all of which are dangerous. Sweating is how bodies keep cool and stop hypothermia, so drink non-alcoholic sugary drinks to replace lost fluids.
Don't take more drugs than you need - give them about an hour before taking more.
Take regular chill-out breaks to help avoid over-heating and dehydration.
Sip about a pint of water per hour (but don't go mad).
Try to avoid alcohol which will only dehydrate you more. Drink something sugary (an isotonic drink like Lucozade Sport is ideal) and eat something salty before you finally get some sleep. However much you don't feel like it, eating really helps to start replacing all those lost salts and minerals.
Whether you're out or at home, if someone gets ill and you have to call an ambulance, don't mess about. Be sure to tell the medics what's been going on. Don't be afraid, it could save a life - maybe yours!
And if you score more than just drugs, remember...
Drugs and alcohol have a pain-killing effect so you may not be aware of damage being done to your body, particularly your cock and arse.
Dehydration and raised temperature makes delicate skin more likely to tear and bleed. For fucking, extra lube and strong condoms are a must!
Though sucking cock is considered very low-risk for HIV transmission, dabbing speed and coke, and chewing gum all night, can cause ulcers and bleeding in your mouth, which may increase the risks of infection.
Drugs and alcohol can alter your perception of risk and can make you less able to get the sex you want. It can be difficult to be assertive, to say no or to insist on condoms, when you're mashed up.
This online advice guide is an extract from the book TOGETHER, by kind permission of Patriic Gayle and Gay Times Books. The book itself is over 300 pages long and contains:
several chapters more useful advice and information
more in-depth information in some chapters
more pictures and tables
further contacts at the end of each chapter
a comprehensive listing of gay and health organisations
Described by Qx magazine as a 'Gay Bible', Together Book is a practical reference work no bookshelf should be without.
Available from Prowler Stores and all good bookshops, or click the link below for price and ordering details.
1182
