Meth is a dangerous drug on its own, but when it’s combined with other substances the potential risks increase. According to research by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM), polysubstance use involving meth can lead to unsafe behaviors among people that belong to a high-risk group for sexually transmitted diseases. In 2009, the NLM surveyed 341 HIV-positive men and found that 65 percent engaged in unsafe, unprotected sex when under the influence of meth combined with another substance.
Partygoers made polysubstance use involving meth more common. When people are at night clubs or raves, they’ll typically combine any drugs available and other people may combine drugs as they become more intoxicated. Men, in particular, may combine meth with prescription medication that helps with sexual performance, like Viagra, because meth may cause erectile dysfunction.
Meth and Commonly Abused Drugs
Meth and Prescription Drugs
Patterson, Thomas L., Semple, Shirley J., Strathdee, Steffanie A., Zians, Jim Ph. D. “ Sexual Risk Behavior Associated with Co-administration of Methamphetamine and Other Drugs in a Sample of HIV-positive Men Who Have Sex with Men.” February 18, 2009. Accessed May 4, 2019. Fisher, D. “Use of Crystal Meth, Viagra and Sexual Behavior.” February 2010. Accessed on May 8, 2019.