The effect of non-injection drug use on sexual risk behaviours and ART adherence among men who have sex with men

Key take-home messages

• Some men who have sex with men may use various substances to overcome negative emotions, alleviate social unease, or enhance sexual experiences.
• The majority of studies focus on the use of amphetamine-group substances (such as crystal meth); two systematic reviews have found enough evidence to associate this group of substances with sexual risk behaviours among men who have sex with men.
• Some studies have found that the use of inhalants is associated with an increase in unprotected anal intercourse among men who have sex with men.
• Interventions involving motivational interviewing and personalized cognitive counselling, have shown some effectiveness in reducing substance use and unprotected anal intercourse, with limitations.

• Population(s)
  • Men who have sex with men
  • General HIV+ population
  • General HIV- population
• Engagement and Care Cascade
  • Treatment
• Prevention
  • Sexual risk behaviour
• Substance Use
  • Nonmedicinal drugs