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GHB use among gay and bisexual men
Perry N Halkitis1, Joseph J Palamar
1Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies, New York University, United States. perry.halkitis@nyu.edu <perry.halkitis@nyu.edu>
Addictive Behaviors
|February 14, 2006
Summary
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is used by 29% of gay and bisexual men who use club drugs. GHB use is common in sexual contexts, especially among HIV-positive individuals, highlighting the need for targeted education.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Substance Use Research
- Community Health
Background:
- Recreational gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use is prevalent in gay communities but remains understudied.
- Gay and bisexual men represent a significant demographic for club drug use, including GHB.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the patterns and contexts of GHB use among gay and bisexual men who use club drugs.
- To identify demographic factors associated with GHB use in this population.
- To understand co-occurring substance use and settings for GHB consumption.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 450 gay and bisexual men reporting club drug use.
- Data collection on GHB usage, demographics, co-drug use, and settings.
- Statistical analysis to compare GHB users and non-users.
Main Results:
- 29% of participants reported recent GHB use.
- GHB users were more likely to identify as gay and were slightly older than non-users.
- Polydrug use was common, with frequent combinations of GHB with methamphetamine, MDMA, ketamine, and alcohol.
- GHB was often used in nightlife settings (nightclubs, parties) and sexual contexts, particularly by HIV-positive men.
Conclusions:
- GHB use is a significant issue within the studied population of gay and bisexual men.
- The prevalence of GHB use in sexual contexts, especially among HIV-positive individuals, warrants specific attention.
- Despite known risks, GHB use persists, indicating a need for enhanced community-based education on its dangers.
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