Abstract
Background. Drug Checking Services (DCS) have proven to be an effective intervention that allows access to safer consumption practices for the population. This study focuses on the user population engaged in chemsex practices. Materials and Methods. A descriptive analysis of sub- stance samples provided by individuals participating in chemsex practices, with a focus on meth- amphetamine (METH), mephedrone, and other synthetic cathinones. Data were collected by the Drug Checking and Sexuality Counseling Service (DCSCS) of Chem-Safe (Energy Control). Sociodemographic characteristics of users, substance acquisition contexts, and chemical com- position were examined. Results. The Chem-Safe DCSCS user population engaging in chemsex sessions consists predominantly of middle-aged men. Fifteen different substance typologies were analyzed, with METH and cathinones predominating. In the case of METH, adulteration through addition was found, with a predominance of the smoked route (50%). Synthetic cathinones showed a high rate of adulteration through substitution, with a preference for intravenous and insufflation routes (41.67% each). Conclusions. The main substances analyzed by DCSCS are METH and synthetic cathinones, revealing differences in acquisition, administration, and adultera- tion contexts. This contributes to an increased health risk for users.
Published Version
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