Better known as “Party ‘n’ play,” or “PNP” here in Aotearoa, chemsex refers to combining certain drugs (methamphetamine, GHB/GBL, and/or mephedrone, though the latter is mostly found in UK/EU) with sex, and is associated pretty exclusively with men who have sex with men.
While folks of other genders and sexualities might also use these drugs for sex, there’s a long subcultural history linked to gay dance events that makes chemsex a queer phenomenon. It’s also been gaining more mainstream attention in the last decade, whether from academics and public health professionals puzzled about how to respond, or from journalists looking to capitalise on some of the growing panic.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or this is your first time hearing of it, let’s dive into some ways to keep safe if you choose to PNP.