Hello I'm Rich Brown and this is my personal website and blog. I'm just your simple, average, down to earth, professional, out gay man and aspiring circuit boy, living in Phoenix, Arizona with a few things to say while trying to find my place among all the scary, conservative, religious nuts in this sick and twisted world.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Sex and Drugs in the Gay Community - Safety Information
[PERSONAL NOTE REGARDING THIS POST] I need to preface this blog post with a little bit of a content note or explanation. I originally posted the contents of this post as a series of 5 separate posts with the intention of giving out some general Safe Sex & Drug Safety Information to visitors to my blog. The motive for my original post was misundertood and it was seen as an endorsement of behavior, and that was not my intention. I'm reposting this because I simply would like to use the recent popularity of my blog within the Circuit Party community to offer up some clear, concise and unbiased factual information which is not readily available to most people in the States.
The information contained in this post is NOT an endorsement by me for drug use nor is it a statemet that or suggest that either me, my friends, or anyone that I personally spend time with uses, has used or has anything to do with recreational drugs. I want to post this information because I frequently attend Circuit Parties and I've seen things happen first hand that could have been prevented if people were better informed. Based on the number of random email's I've received with questions from people who are new to the Circuit party scene, I feel this is a good forum for me to give out this type of safety information as it may very well save someone life. Lastly, I am not a health care provider, or an authority on anything contained in this post, I'm simply providing the information as is publicly available in the pamphlets which were handed out at Black & Blue in Montreal. It is your responsibility to be safe and use your best judgment when it comes to matters of this nature. If you have any questions or comments regarding this post, please feel free to either leave me a comment in the blog or contact me directly at rich@cyrek.net
[Originally Posted As 'Gay Sex On Drugs - Safer Sex and Drugs']
Apparently the phrase 'Gay Sex On Drugs' is one of the keyphrases that has been landing people on my website. Crazy stuff since I wouldn't think I've ever actually talked about this subject to get any hit's from it. I'm not sure if it's a good or bad, but I do find it slightly amusing. So in light of popularity of my blog within the gay community and the recent hit's for this topic, I've decided to provide some information regarding Safer Sex & Drugs which was handed out to us as a public service during the Black & Blue parties in Montreal. If you actually landed on my blog in search of 'Gay Sex On Drugs' you may find some of this interesting and helpful in making an informed decision regarding your safety.
The Party Needs You! Healthy Promotion & Prevention Tips Courtesy of BBCM Foundation Canada
“The party needs you, enjoy yourself and be safe. It is not necessary to use drugs to have a good time. Music can give you all the energy and pleasure you need in a natural way. We care about you and we want you there!” Sex and Drugs Drugs and alcohol may make some people feel more relaxed and increase their self-confidence but they also interfere with the ability to make sound decisions. Impaired judgement from drug use can lead to risky sexual behavior, including choosing to have sex or agreeing to be a bottom when you otherwise wouldn’t or not using condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse. Drugs can delay an orgasm, diminish vaginal lubrication in women and decrease the ability to feel pain they leading to long sessions of intercourse which can result in trauma accompanies with breakdown of mucous membrane leading to easier infection with HIV or other STDs. So always carry a condom with you and make sure that you use it at all times with lots of lubrication.
Think Ahead, Partying Safely Requires Some Thought! • Be in a positive state of mind. • Plan to have a good time. Have a healthy body, rest before and eat well. • Partying with friends, great music & high energy can be fun without drugs. • Know your own body and mind. What works for others may not work for you. • Plan to pace yourself including your drug intake and the type of drugs you take. • Remember, most drugs are not what you think. Purity is not guaranteed. • Start slowly. See how your body reacts before taking more. • Don’t mix drugs. The cocktail may be lethal. • Avoid alcohol. It dehydrates you and can have a disastrous effect with K, G, and other drugs. • Take breaks. Keep cool and hydrated. Make sure to urinate during the party. • Safe sex! Safe sex! Safe sex! Must we keep repeating ourselves? • Know when to say no. Stop if you feel or think you have taken too much. • Tell it like it is. If you’re in trouble ask for help. • Are you using too much or too frequently? You can get help.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If someone you know gets sick, or goes unconscious due to a drug overdose or other reasons, seek out help at the infirmary on site immediately, or get them to a qualified paramedic. Waiting too long or ignoring the problem could be fatal for the person involved. Remember: Don’t die of embarrassment! If you need help, or if one of your friends is sick, it is very important to inform the medical personnel of the exact type and amount of drugs taken. This is the time to tell the truth and trust in the staff that is there to help. This is the only way they will know what kind of action to take to prevent serious complications with may lead to permanent damage or death. Your confidentiality is respected at all times.
GHB (G) Gamma hydroxy butyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant developed as a medical anesthetic. GHB has been produced in varying purities in clandestine labs. GBL (Blue Nitro, Reviverent, Renewtrient) is another drug similar to GHB. GBL takes longer then GHB to be metabolized so the onset of the effects is slower, and the effects last longer. It is difficult to tell GHB from GBL. It is recommend to wait an extra half an hour before taking a booster shot if one is not experiencing the usual effects of the drug. Reports from recreational users say GHB produces a euphoric and intensified sexual state. Typically it is sold in liquid, capsule and tablet form. The liquid form is the main means of ingestion and is often described as salty or “chemical” in taste. The drug can cause amnesia, muscle tension release, drowsiness and, in high doses, abrupt unconsciousness. Other side effects vary from nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and confusion, to seizure-like activity. GHB can be dangerous especially when used with alcohol. Repeated use if not timed properly can lead to overdose.
DANGERS GHB affects everyone differently. The same amount taken by one person may react totally differently in another. The purity of GHB is unreliable. Taking GHB can be dangerous because you don’t know its strength when purchased, or how much it has been diluted. Some studies have shown that GBH can be psychologically addictive. Depressants such as alcohol, ketamine and tranquilizers (valium, xanax) increase the effects of GHB to a potentially dangerous level. Methamphetamine when used with GHB can produce seizures. Several deaths have been reported as a result of the combination of GHB with alcohol and party drugs. If you have any history of seizures, convulsions, slowed heartbeat, or low blood pressure, GHB is especially dangerous. It is difficult to tell GHB apart from GBL. Wait at least a full hour before taking more if you do not feel the expected effects. It is VERY important to not the following: If someone has “fallen out” from use of too much GHB, it is EXTREMELY important to not give the person any other drugs to “wake them up”. Get them to a medic immediately. Administering drugs such as coke, speed or crystal puts the person at risk for a heart attack. Do NOT do G when alone.
CRYSTAL (Methamphetamine, “Crystal”, “Tina”) Crystal-methamphetamine is a highly addictive form of speed. It is available in the form of rocks or crystal-like powder (hence the name). Crystal makes people feel energetic, horny, and able to go without sleep or food for days. It can be taken nasally, orally, anally, intravenously or by smoking. Some effects of Crystal include: extreme itching of the skin, dilated pupils, diarrhea, increased heart rate and blood pressure. Crystal is processed by the liver, so the added strain may make other medications you are taking including those for HIV more difficult to tolerate. The use of Crystal in combination with other recreational drugs can be very dangerous and can increase serious side effects.
DANGERS Crystal floods the brain with dopamine, causing a definite high followed by an equally definite and often devastating low when the user crashes. Users build up a tolerance to the drug very quickly, so greater quantity is needed to achieve the same high. Some negative effects caused by this drug are: depression, psychosis, hallucinations, stroke, aggression, and liver damage. Many lives have been ruined by this drug so be prudent! If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy and liver problems, Crystal is extremely dangerous for your health. Medications such as antidepressants and decongestants affect breakdown of methamphetamine. Crystal is one of the known drugs that changes your brain chemistry by destroying brain cells, leading to memory loss and potential Parkinson’s like symptoms. It lowers all inhibitions and this may lead to unsafe sex practices. You can get help if you think you are using too much. If you use Crystal … handle with care!
KETAMINE (Special K, K) Known as Special K, Ketamine is in fact a rapid-acting nonbarbituate general anesthetic used for diagnostic and surgical procedures in medical environments. While it may induce a relaxing feeling, it is also a cardio respiratory stimulant, chemically similar to PCP (phencyclidine). When taken recreationally in the form of powder across the nasal membrane, it slows motor skills and causes sensory effects, including changes in the perception of sight (colour, space), hearing, time and movement. The drug can also cause impairment of immediate and delayed recall. Depending on the tolerance of the user, the quality of the drug, the quantity taken, and the simultaneous use of other drugs, it can cause psychological dissociation, hallucinations, “live dreams” and a severe momentary loss of motor and sensory skills for a certain period of time (referred to as a “K Hole” by users). The drug can also cause severe nausea and vomiting when alcohol is consumed before, during or after. Small quantities can create a big effect, which can be relatively short lived. Dependence can develop requiring larger and larger quantities of K to obtain a renew effect.
DANGERS Extreme care should be taken when using this drug, with or without the simultaneous use of other drugs and/or alcohol. AVOID at all cost the use of K with GHB, tranquilizers, anti-depressants, over the counter decongestants, marijuana, and protease inhibitors. If you have any history of paranoia, anxiety, mania or mood disorders, you are likely to have a very bad K experience. If you do use K, use it sparingly and wait at least an hour before doing more. If you chose to use K let your friends know so they can keep an eye on you, just in case you find yourself in trouble. If someone you know has trouble breathing, loses consciousness, or experiences heart problems due to K or combination of other drugs seek help immediately. Speaking to someone in a calm tone and manner often helps to reduce their negative feelings during a “K-hole”. Don’t use K if you suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, and thyroid disease. Ketamine may also lead to “chemical hepatitis”, an inflammation of the liver resulting in jaundice. To prevent accidents, it is suggest to not ingest K when alone. Do not driver a car when on K.
COCAINE (Coke) Available in powder or crystals (rocks), it can be smoked or absorbed across the nasal membrane, injected or taken as a suppository. Effects are very similar to amphetamine. While high the user may experience feelings of euphoria, increased sense of insight, confidence and alertness, distortion of perception, and delusions of grandeur. Physical manifestations may include; increased heart rate, enlarged pupils, raised body temperature, jaw tension, teeth grinding and chewing. Larger doses may slow breathing and lower blood pressure. If you inject the drug use clean needles, an never share your syringe with anyone else. When coming down, expect feelings of depression, agitation, headaches, nausea and vomiting. The more you take, the greater these effects will be.
DANGERS Be aware that the use of cocaine may cause severe psychological dependence. It can also have dangerous effects on the cardiac system, regardless of age. If you have chest pain while on Coke, seek medical attention immediately. Cocaine can be especially dangerous when taken with drugs like ecstasy. Be aware that cocaine when combined with alcohol will produce a compound called coca ethylene which is very toxic to the body. Cocaine can interact with several of the medications used for HIV+, including protease inhibitors, ketoconazole, and TB medications. It can also interact negatively with antidepressants. Avoid cocaine if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, liver disease and diabetes.
ECSTASY (“MDMA”, “E”, “X”) MDMA is a synthetic drug derived from amphetamine in Germany in 1912. It is available in pill, powder and capsule form. As with other drugs, the effects will depend on the purity of the drug, the quantity taken, the user’s general health, physical size, tolerance to the drug, previous use and other drugs taken at the same time. Generally, the user experiences a relaxed, smooth mood. This drug can make you feel happy, friendly and open, mainly by increasing the amount of available serotonin (a chemical transmitter in your brain that controls emotions, anxiety and clearness of thought). Use may also cause: irritability, anxiety, increased blood pressure, paranoia/psychosis, aggression, nervousness, convulsions, heart and blood vessel toxicity, insomnia, loss of appetite, hallucinations, and addiction. It can also make you sweat and overheat, depending on the user and the amount taken. It is very important to hydrate yourself, and to eliminate toxins by going to the bathroom in order to prevent short term and or long term kidney problems.
DANGERS Be aware that some of the additives to Ecstasy include the following: caffeine, baking soda, decongestants, dog worming medicine, PCP, amphetamines, and PMA. Not much is known about the long term effect of Ecstasy on your brain. Recent research has demonstrated some potential impact on memory & emotion. Dependence may develop and those who do a lot report that greater quantity is needed to get the same effect. Ecstasy elevates heart rate and blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma or a heart condition don’t use Ecstasy. Hydration is important but an excessive amount of water in your body can also be dangerous. Drinks with sodium such as Gatorade, or snacks containing salt can help replenish lost fluids & minerals. It is suggested to drink one cup of fluid per hour. If you find yourself unable to urinate seek help. Do not take ecstasy if you are HIV+ and using a protease inhibitor, as the combination can be very harmful. Other medication such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and decongestants can also be harmful.
POPPERS There are two main forms “amyl nitrate” and “butyl nitrate”. Used in recreational activities, it enhances music, rhythm, movement and lights. “Amyl nitrate is packaged in small glass ampoules (hence the name “poppers”, the sound when snapped open). This is very difficult to find at this time. “Butyl nitrate” derivatives are available in 12 ml screw-top bottles. Volatile nitrites are consumed by inhaling fumes through sniffing. These drugs, if spilled, can burn the skin, and are highly toxic if swallowed or injected. Poppers alter the dilation of blood vessels and lower the body’s blood pressure. The user may experience a pounding heart, a sense of warmth, exaltation, giddiness, heightened awareness of light, sound, movement, and sensory perception. Hallucinations may occur. Poppers relax smooth muscle tissue (like your anus) and deaden your senses. As a result you may be unaware of soreness or tearing during sex putting you at risk for HIV, STD’s, and physical trauma.
DANGERS Poppers can have a disinhibiting effect, increasing the likelihood of engaging in unsafe sexual behavior during and after use. Overuse can lessen the effects and some people report nausea, headaches and loss of erection. Some reports suggest that brain cells might be destroyed by its use. Any spills on the skin can be washed with lots of water. Be careful if in haling through the mouth. Do not drink or inject. Little is known about possible interactions with antiviral drugs. Poppers should not be used if you have heart problems and ESPECIALLY if you have taken Viagra within the last 24 hours.
