Crystal Meth, HIV and HEP C
Why is there an association between crystal meth and viruses like HIV and Hepatitis?
The association between crystal meth and HIV transmission is related to: 1) the tendency of many people to engage in unprotected and uninhibited sex while under the influence of crystal meth and 2) the risks associated with injection drug use for those who shoot speed. In terms of sexual transmission, many people when high on crystal meth do not use condoms and may have sex with many different sex partners during a speed run. And even if they do use condoms, the lengthy and rougher sex that often results in a much higher likelihood that the condom will break. Additionally, some men who have receptive anal sex while on speed are less sensitive to pain responses and may be inclined to have more aggressive sex for longer periods where injury is more likely to occur and the risk of HIV infection is increased.
There is also a high risk for transmitting Hepatitis B and C for many of the reasons mentioned above. Like HIV, Hepatitis B can be transmitted through unprotected sex or through sharing of syringes and injection supplies. Hepatitis C is mostly transmitted through blood to blood contact, usually by sharing syringes or other injection equipment.
The risks of HIV and Hepatitis B and C transmission for those who shoot crystal meth is the same as with any injection drug use. Any sharing of syringes or the various items used in preparing to inject the drug can pass these viruses.
Further increasing the likelihood of HIV transmission among crystal meth users is the fact that gay men who use crystal meth have a much higher rate of HIV prevalence than gay men who don’t use speed. Different studies have found that gay men who use crystal methamphetamine are two to three to four times more likely to be infected with HIV.
For people infected with HIV, even occasional use of crystal meth can lead to a lapse in taking HIV medications, weight loss and vitamin depletion. With crystal, you can stay awake for days. Sleep, however, is essential to maintaining the immune system. Lack of sleep and poor nutrient intake aside, crystal use itself causes a drop in T cells and NK cells, and recent research suggests that crystal takes a major toll on people who are immune compromised.
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