🧊 Methamphetamine (Ice, Batu, Syabu, Tina)

What is Meth?
Methamphetamine — also known as ice, syabu, batu, kristal, tina, pil kuda, or yaba — is a powerful stimulant. It’s commonly used in chemsex settings for its effects: boosting energy, confidence, sexual pleasure, and lowering inhibitions.

Everyone’s experience with meth is different, and it’s important to have access to reliable information. If you choose to use, knowing how to reduce harm can help you stay safer.

🔍 Forms of Methamphetamine

Meth comes in a few different forms, each with its own strength and appearance:

• Powder (Speed)– White, brown, or pinkish; sometimes in tablet form. It’s the mildest type.
• Base– Sticky or oily in texture, usually white to brown. Stronger than powder but not as strong as crystal.
• Crystal (Ice, Shards, Glass, Tina)– Clear or blue-tinted crystals that look like crushed ice. This is the most potent form and is often smoked or injected.

💉 How People Use Meth — and Safer Use Tips

There’s no “safe” way to use meth, but there are ways to reduce risks. Here’s a breakdown of common methods and harm reduction tips:

1. 🟢Swallowing (Bombing, Parachuting)

• How: Taken in capsules, dabbed on gums, or wrapped in tissue (bombing).
• Effects: Slower onset (20–30 mins), longer lasting, less intense.
• Risks: Stomach issues, unexpected strength.
• Stay Safer: Start low, fill your own capsules, avoid unknown sources.

2. 🟡Snorting (Bumping, Keying, Sniffing)

• How: Sniffed through a straw, pen, or paper after crushing into fine powder.
• Effects: Kicks in fast (3–5 mins), lasts shorter than swallowing.
• Risks: Nose damage, infections (hepatitis C, respiratory infections) if sharing tools.
• Stay Safer: Use your own straw, chop finely, don’t share sniffing tools.

3. 🔴Smoking

• How: Heated in a glass pipe and inhaled.
• Effects: Very fast (7–10 seconds), very strong.
• Risks: Burnt lips/mouth, lung issues, overdose.
• Stay Safer: Clean your pipe, take breaks, know your dose before you start.

4. 🔵Booty Bumping (Rectal Use)

• How: Dissolved in water and inserted with a clean syringe (no needle) or finger into the anus or urethra.
• Effects: Fast (3–5 mins), long-lasting and intense.
• Risks: Irritation or tearing of tissues, condom damage, risk of HIV, Hep C or STIs.
• Stay Safer: Use clean water to dissolve the speed, rotate methods to avoid irritation and allow the rectum to heal, clean and not sharing tools, and practice safer sex and hygiene.

5. ⚠️Slamming (Injecting)

• How: Injected directly into a vein. Not recommended for muscle or under-skin injections (it may not absorb well).
• Effects: Instant “rush” (15–30 seconds).
• Risks: Overdose, infections, vein damage, bloodborne viruses like HIV or Hep C.
• Stay Safer: Use new needles every time, never share, rotate injection spots. (More in our Safer Slamming Guide.)

 

✨ What Does Meth Feel Like?

People use meth for different reasons, and everyone’s experience can vary. Some of the commonly reported effects include:

• Euphoria & Confidence
  Feeling good, more talkative, sociable, and outgoing. A boost in self-esteem is common.
• Increased Energy & Focus
  Meth can help people stay awake and alert for long hours, often without feeling tired.
• Enhanced Sexual Desire & Stamina
  Many experience stronger sexual arousal, delayed ejaculation, and intensified sensations.
• Reduced Appetite & Sleep
  Meth often suppresses hunger and the need to sleep, sometimes for many hours or days.

In short, meth can create a powerful mix of euphoria, arousal, and physical energy.
But it’s important to know that over time, frequent use may lead to side effects like “crystal dick” where it becomes harder to get or maintain an erection and overall drop in sexual function.

⚠️ Short-Term Risks: Overamping (Meth Overdose)

Sometimes, taking too much meth or using it in risky situations can lead to overamping, which is the body and mind going into overdrive.

🔍 Signs of Overamping:

• Restlessness or anxiety
• Fast heartbeat or chest pain
• Sweating and shaking
• Paranoia or hallucinations
• Overheating or chills
• Difficulty breathing or panic attacks

🌡️ What Increases the Risk?

• Not sleeping for days
• Not drinking enough water
• Using meth with other substances (especially GHB, alcohol, or Viagra)
• Feeling unsafe, uncomfortable, or anxious in your environment

🛡️ Ways to Reduce Harm:

• Hydrate regularly(water or isotonic drinks)
• Take breaksbetween sessions or doses
• Avoid mixingmeth with other substances
• Check inwith your body and mood often
• Use in a calm, familiar spacewith people you trust

If someone is experiencing severe symptoms (e.g., seizures, collapsing, unable to breathe), call for emergency help immediately. You won’t get in trouble for saving someone’s life.

 

⚠️ Serotonin Syndrome

What Is It?
Serotonin Syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that happens when there’s too much serotonin (a chemical that helps regulate mood, body temperature, and functions) building up in the brain.

🚨 How It Happens:

This can occur when meth is combined with other substances that also raise serotonin levels, such as:

• MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly)
• Mephedrone
• PMA/PMMA
• Certain antidepressants(especially SSRIs or MAOIs)
• Other stimulants or party drugs
• Other drugs e.g tramadol, over-the counter cough medicines, certain antibiotics, migraine medications, antiemetics, herbal products etc.

 

🔍 Symptoms to Look Out For:

• High body temperature or sweating
• Agitation, confusion, or restlessness
• Rapid heartbeat or high blood pressure
• Muscle twitching, tremors, or stiffness
• Shivering or goosebumps
• In severe cases: seizures, unconsciousness, or coma

 

🛡️ Harm Reduction Tips:

• Avoid mixingmeth with drugs that affect serotonin levels.
• Be awareof the symptoms and look out for yourself and others.
• Let someone knowwhat you’ve taken so they can help if needed.

⬇️ Acute Withdrawal (“The Come Down”)

What Is It?
After meth wears off, it’s common to experience a “crash” or come-down — a period where the body and mind adjust after being overstimulated. This can feel intense and unpleasant, which may lead some to use again.

🌀 Common Symptoms:

• Extreme tiredness or fatigue
• Low mood, depression, or anxiety
• Irritability or feeling emotionally drained
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Intense cravings

This stage can last a few hours to a few days, depending on how much and how often meth was used.

🛡️ Harm Reduction Tips:

• Eat well— even small, nutritious meals including high quality protein and multivitamins supplements can help your body recover.
• Stay hydrated— water or electrolyte drinks are best.
• Get plenty of rest— allow your body to reset. Sleep and being in a quiet and safe environment. Lack of sleep may cause cognitive defects.
• Avoid re-dosing and distancing from chemsex if comedown is overwhelming — using more to “fix” the crash can increase the risk of dependency and make the comedown worse in the long run.
• Talk to someone you trust— peer support or check-ins can make a big difference.

🧠 Chronic Harms (Long-Term Risks)

Long-term meth use can affect both physical and mental health. While every person’s experience is different, being informed can help you take care of yourself and make safer choices.

1. 🌀Dependence & Psychological Addiction

Meth may not cause strong physical withdrawal like some substances, but it can lead to psychological dependence — where you feel like you need it to function or feel okay.

Signs may include:

• Needing more to feel the same effect
• Using more often or in larger amounts
• Struggling to stop or take breaks
• Prioritizing use over daily life
• Difficulty with memory, focus, or decision-making

2. 🍽️Malnutrition & Weight Loss

Meth can reduce appetite, which may lead to extreme weight loss and nutritional deficiencies over time.

3. ❤️Cardiovascular Issues

Using meth long-term may increase the risk of:

• High blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Heart attacks or strokes

4. 🧠Brain & Nerve Health

Heavy or ongoing use may affect dopamine levels in the brain, which can lead to:

• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Cognitive decline
• Long-term risk of conditions like Parkinson’s

5. 😮‍💨Breathing Problems

Smoking meth can irritate the lungs and cause:

• Chronic cough or bronchitis
• Increased risk of lung infections
• Trouble breathing

6. 🦠Stomach & Liver Issues

Over time, meth use can impact digestion and liver health, leading to:

• Ulcers
• Liver stress or damage
• Severe intestinal conditions

7. 💉Infections from Injecting

Injecting meth increases the risk of:

• HIV, Hepatitis B & C
• Skin infections or abscesses
• Vein damage

8. 🦷“Meth Mouth” (Oral Health Issues)

Meth reduces saliva and causes teeth grinding, which may result in:

• Severe tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss

9. 🧴Skin Issues

Some people experience formication ; the sensation of bugs under the skin  leading to scratching, sores, and infections.

10. 👃Pott Puffy Tumour

Snorting meth can cause serious sinus infections that, if left untreated, may result in visible swelling and pain in the forehead area.

11. 👁️Eye Complications

In rare cases, meth use can cause vision loss due to eye nerve damage, especially when used intranasally or with high doses.

12. 🧠Psychological Effects

Long-term meth use can affect mental wellbeing, including:

• Anxiety or depression
• Paranoia, hallucinations
• Aggression or mood swings
• Meth-induced psychosis (delusions, paranoia, and sometimes violent behavior)

💊 Mixing Meth With Other Substances

Some combinations may seem helpful in the moment but can increase the risk of harm:

• MDMA, Cocaine, Mephedrone→ May trigger serotonin syndrome, a medical emergency.
• Alcohol & Benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium)→ May mask meth’s effects, increasing the chance of overdose.
• Erectile Dysfunction Drugs (e.g. Viagra)→ Sometimes used to manage “crystal dick,” but this combo can strain the heart.
• Cannabis or Benzos during the come down→ Might feel calming but can hide signs of overdose or toxicity.

💡 ART Interactions: Meth generally doesn’t interact with most HIV medications — but if you’re on ritonavir or cobicistat, be extra cautious as risk of toxicity may increase. Always check with a doctor or pharmacist you trust.

 

🌈 Final Thoughts: Using Meth with Awareness

We understand some people think that meth can feel amazing — giving energy, pleasure, and confidence — but it’s not without risks. If you choose to use, being informed and taking steps to reduce harm can help you stay safer and healthier.

At COMRED, we’re not here to judge your choices. We’re here to support you, however your journey looks.

Need someone to talk to, access to safer use info, or a space that gets it?
We’re here. You matter.

💜 Ecstasy / MDMA (Molly)

What Is It?
MDMA — often called Ecstasy, Molly, or simply “E” — is a substance known for its uplifting and connecting effects. It has properties of both stimulants (like amphetamines) and hallucinogens, and also creates a strong sense of empathy and emotional openness — which is why it’s known as an entactogen.

✨ What Makes MDMA Unique?

• Mood Boost: Many users feel euphoria, emotional warmth, and joy.
• Energy & Movement: It’s often used to dance for hours, stay awake, and feel connected to music or others.
• Empathy & Connection: MDMA can help people feel more open, loving, and close with those around them.

Effects can feel magical, but MDMA is not risk-free. Taking more doesn’t always mean stronger effects — and can sometimes cause harm instead.

🔬 How It Works in the Body

• Onset: You may feel effects within 20–60 minutesafter taking.
• Peak: Effects often peak around 60–90 minutes.
• Duration: The high can last up to 5 hours, with after-effects lasting longer.
• Half-life: About 8–9 hours, so it takes time to leave your body.

📌 Re-dosing (taking more if the first dose feels weak) can *increase risks of overheating, serotonin syndrome, or overdose. Be cautious and patient.

🧊 Common Forms & How People Take MDMA

1. Tablets, Pills, Capsules

• These are the most common forms known as “Ecstasy.”
• Often branded with fun shapes, colors, or logos (like 💗White Dove, 💎 Pink Hexagon, 🦸 Superman).

2. Crystal / Powder (“Molly”)

• Often considered “pure MDMA,” but purity can vary.
• Commonly swallowed directly or wrapped in tissue (bombing).
• Sometimes snorted — this can be painful and shortens the high.
• Less common: booty bumpingor injecting — both carry higher risks and need special care and safety practices.

 

 

✨ Desired Effects: The ‘4 Es’

People use MDMA for a variety of reasons, including:

• Energy to dance and stay awake for hours
• Euphoria and confidence, with a strong sense of connection to others
• Enhanced sensory experiences— lights, music, and touch can feel more intense
• Emotional openness, sometimes used to manage stress or trauma (e.g. PTSD)

💡 Some people describe a sense of calm or peace while on MDMA. However, this can contrast with unwanted effects like anxiety or agitation that sometimes follow.

MDMA can also increase sexual desire and intensity — but for some, this may come with challenges like erectile dysfunction or delayed orgasm.

😣 Unwanted Effects: What to Watch Out For

Not all pills or powders sold as MDMA are pure — they may contain adulterants or other drugs. Effects can also vary between people.

🌀 Common Short-Term Side Effects:

• Jaw clenching, dry mouth, sweating
• Nausea, dizziness, feeling hot or cold
• Blurred vision, restlessness, mild confusion
• Fast heartbeat, raised blood pressure

⚠️ Serious Risks:

• Overheating& dehydration, especially in hot, crowded environments
• Serotonin syndromefrom mixing with antidepressants or other drugs
• Come-down effects— low mood, fatigue, or anxiety for days after use
• PMMA danger— slow onset and toxic effects may cause people to redose, increasing risk of overdose

Many users report a “mid-week crash” — also known as “Suicide Tuesday” — with symptoms like fatigue, sadness, brain fog, or bad dreams.

🚨 Recognizing MDMA Toxicity

Toxicity can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening complications. Be aware of the warning signs, especially if mixing substances.

⚠️ Mild to Moderate:

• Nausea, sweating, jaw clenching
• Anxiety, dizziness, rapid heartbeat

⚠️ Severe:

• Confusion, hallucinations, overheating
• Irregular heartbeat, seizures, collapse
• Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness

Seek emergency help if symptoms are severe — acting early can save lives.

🧊 Common Serious Complications

1. Hyperthermia (Overheating)

MDMA increases body temperature, especially when combined with intense physical activity (like dancing for hours in a crowded, hot venue).

High temperatures can cause organ damage, muscle breakdown, or even death.

Signs include excessive sweating, dizziness, severe dehydration, confusion, seizures and collapse.

💡 Take breaks, stay cool, and hydrate in moderation.

2. Serotonin Syndrome

Dangerous when MDMA is mixed with SSRIs, MAOIs, tramadol, or other stimulants.

Signs include high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, agitation, fast heartbeat, seizures, and even unconsciousness.

Seek help if someone is overheating, confused, or experiencing muscle rigidity.

3. Hyponatremia (Water Intoxication)

MDMA can increase the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which makes the body retain water. Combined with excessive drinking (common at raves/clubs where people try to stay hydrated), this can dilute sodium levels in the blood, leading to brain swelling.

Symptoms start as headaches, nausea, confusion, but can quickly progress to seizures, coma, and death.

💧 Sip slowly and include electrolytes (e.g., sports drinks) if sweating heavily. Seek help immediately if symptoms appear.

4. Heart Complications

High doses or combinations with stimulants increase risk of heart attacks, irregular heartbeat, or cardiac arrest — even in young, healthy individuals.

5. Mental Health & Psychiatric Effects

High doses or frequent use can cause:

• Panic attacks or intense fear
• Paranoia or hallucinations
• Lasting depression, anxiety, or emotional instability

If paranoia or hallucinations persist, professional mental health support may be needed.

 

🧠 Chronic Harms (Long-Term Risks)

While not physically addictive, long-term or heavy use of MDMA can lead to real challenges:

1. Brain & Memory Issues

• Serotonin depletion = low mood, memory loss, poor focus
• Cognitive difficulties may take weeks or months to recover

2. Mental Health Concerns

• Persistent anxiety, depression, or emotional ups and downs
• Risk of drug-induced psychosisor Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder, HPDD (flashbacks, visual distortions, and sensitivity to light)

3. Sleep & Energy

• Poor sleep quality and lasting fatigue
• Disrupted sleep cycles, even long after use

4. Heart & Liver Damage

• High blood pressure, heart disease, or valve issues
• Liver stress or failure in some cases

5. Kidney Complications

• Risk of kidney failure from dehydration, overheating, or rhabdomyolysis

6. Reproductive Health

• Possible changes in fertility, hormone levels, or menstrual cycles
• Risk of birth defectsif used during pregnancy

7. Social and Behavioral Impact

• Risky decisions, unprotected sex, or mixing substances
• financial issues, affect job performance, and strain relationships.
• Social withdrawal or needing MDMA to feel joy

8. MDMA-Induced Neuroplasticity

While MDMA may potentially permanently damage the brain, the brain has the ability to heal.

Many cognitive and emotional effects can improve with time, healthy lifestyle changes, and neuroplasticity-supporting activities like:

✔ Exercise (boosts serotonin & dopamine production)
✔ Healthy diet (rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and essential nutrients)
✔ Mindfulness & meditation (helps rewire stress responses)
✔ Adequate sleep & hydration
✔ Social support & meaningful activities

⚡ Dangerous Drug Mixes to Avoid

• Alcohol: Increases dehydration and poor decision-making
• Stimulants: (Cocaine, meth, caffeine) = extreme stress on heart
• SSRIs, MAOIs, Tramadol, DXM: Risk of serotonin syndrome
• PMA/PMMA: Much more toxic than MDMA
• Opiates or GHB: Risk of sedation, overdose, or breathing issues
• Some ART meds (e.g., ritonavir, cobicistat): May raise MDMA levels and toxicity

💡 Harm Reduction: Staying Safer with MDMA

• ✅Test your drugs — use a reagent testing kit to check for purity
• ✅Start low, go slow — especially with unknown pills or powders
• ✅Hydrate smartly —  sip water regularly (but not too much, about 1 cup per hour if dancing, ½ cup if not).
• ✅Cool down — take dance breaks, rest, and find fresh air
• 🚫Avoid mixing — especially with alcohol, stimulants, or antidepressants
• 🛏️Plan your come-down — have a chill place to rest and recover

Feeling unwell? Don’t wait. Getting help quickly can prevent serious harm — and save a life.

💬 Final Thoughts

MDMA can bring joy, connection, and emotional release — but it’s not risk-free. By learning how it works, knowing the warning signs, and practicing harm reduction, you can help protect yourself and others.

You deserve safety, support, and care — no matter what.
If you’re unsure, need someone to talk to, or want to learn more, COMRED is here.

💧 GHB & GBL

(Also known as G, Gina, Liquid E, Liquid X, Blue Verve, Charisma, Gamma-O)

GHB (Gamma-hydroxybutyrate) and GBL (Gamma-butyrolactone) are substances commonly used in chemsex and club settings for their relaxing, euphoric, and pro-sexual effects. While some use them to feel more confident, connected, or to “come down” after stimulants, dose control is critical — small changes can quickly lead to overdose.

🔍 What Are GHB and GBL?

• GHBis a depressant that acts on the central nervous system (CNS), producing calming and euphoric effects.
• GBLis a precursor that converts into GHB in the body — it tends to be stronger and faster-acting.
• 1,4-Butanediol (1,4-BD)is another precursor that works similarly.

💡 These substances are sometimes referred to as “liquid ecstasy,” but they are chemically very different from MDMA.

Because of their strong sedative effects, GHB has unfortunately also been misused in cases of non-consensual drugging.

🧠 How It Works in the Body

Effect Stage	Timeline
Onset	15–20 minutes
Peak Effects	30–60 minutes
Duration	3–4 hours
Half-life	20–30 minutes
Urine Detection	Usually undetectable after 12 hours

Most of the substance is broken down and exhaled — only a small amount remains in urine unless in overdose situations.

🧪 How GHB/GBL Is Used

The most common method is drinking — G is usually mixed into juice or soda to mask the salty taste. People often measure doses in milliliters (mL).

Route	Notes
Oral (most common)	Mixed in drinks, salty taste, measured by mL.
Snorting	Rare – GHB is usually a liquid.
Injection	Very rare – High risk of overdose and infections.
Mucosal	Fast absorption (e.g. rectal), but significantly raises overdose risk.

G is extremely dose-sensitive. A dose that feels good one day might feel too strong the next.

✨ Desired Effects

People use GHB/GBL for different reasons — to feel good, let go of inhibitions, or connect sexually. Some also use it to ease anxiety or help come down from stimulants like meth.

Dose Range	Common Effects
Low (0.5–1.5 mL)	Euphoria, relaxation, sociability, confidence
Moderate (1.5–2.5 mL)	Disinhibition, increased libido, dizziness, nausea
High (2.5+ mL)	Deep sedation, confusion, blackouts, vomiting, loss of consciousness

⚠️ Even slight increases in dose can lead to overdose. Everyone’s body reacts differently.

🚨 Acute Risks & Overdose

GHB/GBL has a steep dose-response curve — meaning just a small increase in dose can shift from euphoric to dangerous. Overdoses often happen when mixed with other depressants like alcohol or benzos, or when redosing too soon.

🧯 Signs of GHB/GBL Overdose:

• Loss of consciousness / “G-sleep”
• Vomiting (with risk of choking)
• Shallow or irregular breathing
• Confusion or disorientation
• Muscle twitching or seizures
• Coma or unresponsiveness

Never leave someone alone who’s passed out after taking G. If they’re unresponsive or breathing irregularly, call for emergency help — it could save their life.

 

⚠️ GHB/GBL Overdose: What You Need to Know

Overdosing on G can happen quickly — especially if mixed with other substances, if tolerance has changed, or if the dose is higher than expected. The effects can hit fast and feel intense, but acting quickly can prevent serious harm.

🚨 Why Overdose Happens:

• Dosing too frequently or taking a higher dose than usual
• Mixing with alcohol, benzos, or other depressants
• Not knowing the strength or purity of the batch
• Having lower tolerance after a break from use

🔍 What G Overdose Can Look Like:

• Loss of consciousness (“G sleep”)
• Slurred speech, heavy body, or extreme confusion
• Slow or irregular breathing
• Vomiting — with risk of choking
• Muscle jerks or seizures
• Sudden awakening with disorientation

Many people “go under” and wake up a few hours later, but some may not — especially when G is mixed with alcohol or other depressants.

🛟 What To Do If Someone Overdoses:

• Put them on their side(recovery position) to prevent choking
• Monitor breathing— if it slows or stops, call emergency services immediately
• Don’t leave them alone— they may wake up confused or become unresponsive again
• Naloxone won’t reverse GHBoverdose, but if opioids were also used, it could still help

Act fast. Stay calm. You could save a life.

🔁 Long-Term Use & Dependence

Using GHB/GBL regularly can lead to tolerance and dependence — meaning your body starts to rely on it to function normally. Stopping suddenly can cause intense and even dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

🔁 Signs of Dependence:

• Needing more for the same effects
• Using even when it causes problems
• Struggling to stop or cut back
• Withdrawing from social life, work, or relationships

🧠 GHB/GBL Withdrawal

One of the unique features of G withdrawal is how quickly symptoms can start — sometimes within just 30 minutes to a few hours after the last dose.

🌀 Early Symptoms (first 12 hours):

• Insomnia, tremors, confusion
• Nausea, vomiting, anxiety

🚨 12–48 Hours Later:

• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Agitation, sweating
• Seizures, hallucinations, or muscle jerks(myoclonus)

📅 Duration:

• Withdrawal can last up to 2 weeks, sometimes longer
• Symptoms may not respond well to benzodiazepines
• Can resemble alcohol, opioid, or stimulant toxicity— making medical evaluation crucial

🛑 Important:

If you’re dependent on GHB or GBL, do not stop suddenly without medical support.
Withdrawal can be dangerous and should be managed by healthcare professionals

 

💥 Mixing GHB/GBL with Other Substances

Combining G with other substances increases risks and unpredictability. Some combinations can overwhelm the body, especially when depressants are involved.

⚠️ Common Drug Interactions:

Substance	Effect When Mixed with GHB/GBL
Alcohol	Severe sedation, vomiting, blackouts, and breathing problems
Benzodiazepines (e.g. Xanax)	Increased risk of coma, overdose, and death
Stimulants (e.g. meth, cocaine)	Unpredictable reactions, body strain, heart complications
HIV meds (e.g. ritonavir)	May increase GHB/GBL toxicity due to CYP enzyme interactions

Always know what’s in your system. If you’re taking medication or other substances, avoid layering G unless you’ve had a conversation with a trusted medical professional.

🧪 Spiking Awareness: GHB in Drinks & Lubricants

GHB/GBL has unfortunately been used in non-consensual drugging — sometimes added to drinks or even personal lubricants. This can lead to sexual assault, robbery, or serious harm.

🛡️ Stay Safer:

• Don’t leave your drink unattendedat parties, clubs, or private spaces
• Avoid pre-mixed drinks— always measure and mix your own
• If something feels off on the taste and smell, trust your gut and seek help immediately
• Watch out for friends and check in if they seem overly intoxicated

Everyone deserves to feel safe, whether partying, playing, or just hanging out. If something happens, you are not to blame — and help is available.

STAYING SAFE on GHB/GBL

 

 

 

💭 Final Thoughts on GHB & GBL

GHB and GBL can create powerful feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and connection — especially in social or sexual settings. But they also carry serious risks, including sudden overdose, dependence, and difficult withdrawal symptoms.

Because of their steep dose-response curve, even small increases in dose can quickly lead to unconsciousness or overdose — sometimes even in experienced users.

🛡️ If You Choose to Use:

• Measure carefullyand start with the lowest dose possible
• Avoid mixingwith alcohol, benzos, or other depressants
• Wait before re-dosing— don’t stack doses too close together
• Use in a safe space, with trusted people who can support you if something goes wrong

⚠️ Overdoses can happen fast and without warning. Always watch out for yourself and others.

🧠 Struggling With G Use?

If you or someone you care about is facing dependence or withdrawal, know this: you’re not alone. GHB/GBL withdrawal can be intense — and trying to quit cold turkey can be dangerous. Professional medical help is essential.

At COMRED, we believe in harm reduction, non-judgment, and meeting people where they are. Whether you’re currently using, thinking about stopping, or just exploring your options — we’re here to support you, every step of the way.

💙 Knowledge is power. Stay informed, stay safe, and take care of each other.

🌀 Ketamine & Methoxetamine (MXE)

(Also known as: K, Ket, Special K, Kit-Kat, Cornflakes, Super K, M-Ket, Mexxy, MXE Powder, Vitamin K)

Ketamine and MXE are dissociative drugs — meaning they can alter how you experience time, space, pain, and your connection to your body. Some use these substances recreationally to feel relaxed, explore new sensations, or enhance sexual experiences.

While they don’t cause full unconsciousness like sedatives, they can blur reality, increase sensory distortion, and lead to powerful, sometimes disorienting effects.

🧠 Overview

• Originally developed for medical and veterinary anesthesia
• Ketamineis more widely used; MXE is a synthetic alternative with longer-lasting effects
• Often used in chemsex scenes for muscle relaxationor intensifying sensations
• Sometimes described as producing a mix of effects similar to alcohol, stimulants, opioids, and psychedelics

Some believe MXE is a “bladder-safe” alternative to ketamine, but scientific evidence is limited.

💊 Forms & Routes of Use

Form	Powder (white or off-white), tablets, or liquid
Common use	Snorted (insufflation)
Less common	Swallowed, smoked, rectal use
Injection	Rare — if used, usually intramuscular (IM), not intravenous (IV)

⏱️ Effects Timeline

Method	Time to Feel Effects
IV injection	~1 minute
IM injection or snorting	5–15 minutes
Oral use	4–6 hours (due to conversion to norketamine, which is more sedating)

✨ Desired Effects

Low doses	Mild dissociation, floating feeling, altered sound/visual perception, time dilation
Higher doses	“K-hole” — intense dissociation, out-of-body experience, visual hallucinations

People often use ketamine recreationally for:

• Relaxation and emotional escape
• Easing the come-down from stimulant use
• Enhancing creativity or introspection
• Sexual exploration— due to its muscle-relaxant and numbing effects (e.g., during fisting)

The experience can feel dream-like — but also disorienting or frightening for some.

⚠️ Acute Ketamine Toxicity

Ketamine is considered to have a high safety margin, but it’s not without risks — especially when mixed with alcohol, depressants, or used in unsafe environments.

🚨 Possible Effects:

• Temporary unconsciousness
• Amnesia (memory loss)
• Pain numbing, while still able to breathe (airway reflexes intact)
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure — risky for those with heart conditions or high BP
• Loss of coordination and awareness — leading to accidents or unsafe behavior

❗ Key Risks:

• Accidental injurywhile disoriented
• No antidotefor overdose
• Symptoms may resolve quickly— which can make medical diagnosis difficult
• Dangerous when used in unfamiliar or unsupervised settings

Stay aware of your environment, avoid mixing with other substances, and have trusted people around if using.

 

 

💥 Long-Term Harms of Ketamine

Ketamine and its analogues like MXE may feel relaxing or insightful, but frequent or high-dose use can result in serious long-term effects on physical, mental, and emotional health.

🔁 Dependence & Withdrawal

• Ketamine affects dopamine, increasing the risk of psychological dependence
• Tolerance builds quickly, leading to more frequent or higher dosing
• Withdrawal symptoms can include:
  • Anxiety, shaking, sweating, heart palpitations
  • Nightmares, strong cravings, and low mood

🚽 Bladder & Urinary Tract Damage (Ketamine Bladder Syndrome)

One of the most serious long-term risks of ketamine use is bladder damage:

• Painful urination, frequent urges, incontinence
• Blood in urine and ureter blockages
• In severe cases, bladder removal surgerymay be required
• Up to 30% of regular usersdevelop symptoms
• Continuing to use ketamine may worsen damage — seek help early

😖 Gut & Metabolism Issues

• “K-cramps” — severe stomach pain, often confused with gallbladder issues
• Liver function changes
• Other risks: diabetic ketoacidosis, rhabdomyolysis, and metabolic acidosis
• These effects usually resolve once ketamine use stops

🧠 Mental & Cognitive Effects

• Short and long-term memory problems
• Chronic users may experience schizophrenia-like symptoms
• Persistent anxiety, depression, or mood swings — even after stopping
• Brain imaging has shown white matter changesin dependent users

🧍 Social Harms

• Trouble at work or school
• Relationship strain
• Financial or legal issues

💊 Drug Interactions with HIV Medications

• Ketamine may interact with ART medications, especially protease inhibitors like ritonavir
• These can increase ketamine levels and raise the risk of toxicity

🛡️ Harm Reduction Tips for Ketamine

• Dose carefully: Start low, measure accurately, avoid frequent use
• Avoid mixingwith alcohol or depressants
• Use with someone sober: Accidents and blackouts are common
• Bladder symptoms: Stop use and get checked by a doctor ASAP
• Track your usewith journals or apps
• Check in with your mental health: Memory or mood changes are real
• Sexual safety: Ketamine’s numbing effect can lead to injury — check in with your body
• Withdrawal?Don’t go it alone — medical support helps

💭 Final Thoughts on Ketamine

Ketamine can offer moments of peace, creativity, or escape — but regular use can lead to serious health risks, especially bladder damage, mental health issues, and memory problems.

At COMRED, we believe in compassion over judgment. Whether you’re exploring, reducing, or ready to stop, we’re here to walk with you — one step at a time.

🍾 Poppers (Alkyl Nitrites)

(Also known as Amyl, Kix, Liquid Gold, Rock Hard, Ram, Bang Aroma, Thrust)

Poppers are inhaled chemicals that produce a fast, intense sensation of euphoria, warmth, and muscle relaxation. Often used in club scenes or during sex, they’re especially popular in MSM communities.

💨 What Do Poppers Do?

• Act within seconds, lasting a few minutes
• Relax smooth muscles — especially blood vesselsand anal sphincters. Facilitate anal and/or vaginal sex by relaxing the anal sphincter, reducing pain and risk of injury
• Increase heart rate and blood flow
• Can enhance sexual sensation, orgasm, and libido. Alkyl nitrite use may prolong erection, increase libido and heighten the experience of pleasure including the duration and intensity of orgasm
• Used at clubs or parties to feel energized, loose, or connected

⚠️ Short-Term Effects

• Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
• Feeling flushed or “spaced out”
• Eye watering or blurred vision
• Increased sociability or sexual arousal

🚨 Health Risks of Poppers

❤️ Cardiovascular

• Sudden drop in blood pressure
• Heartbeat problems (tachycardia or bradycardia)
• Do NOT mix with Viagraor PDE5 inhibitors — it can cause collapse

🩸 Blood

• Can reduce oxygen-carrying capacity (methemoglobinemia)
• May cause cyanosis (blue skin), seizures, or collapse
• Risk of hemolysisin those with G6PD deficiency

👁️ Eyes

• “Poppers maculopathy” — can cause vision lossor central blind spots
• Eye irritation or damage from splashes or prolonged exposure

😷 Lungs & Skin

• Vapors may irritate airways or cause coughing
• Direct contact can cause burns or irritation on skin/lips
• Highly flammable — never use near fire or cigarettes

Others

• Potentially carcinogenic.
• can induce aggressive behavior.
• Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headaches, sweating, chills, throat irritation, lethargy, and altered perception of time.

⚠️ Harm Reduction Tips for Poppers

• Do NOT ingest— swallowing can be fatal
• Don’t mix with Viagra, Cialis, or heart meds
• Keep away from fire— poppers are flammable
• Use in moderation— repeated inhaling can cause serious health effects
• Protect your skin and eyesfrom direct contact
• Avoid mixingwith stimulants or alcohol

💬 Final Thoughts on Poppers

Poppers are widely used, especially in queer spaces and party settings. While often seen as a “low-risk” substance, they can cause serious health issues — particularly for the heart, eyes, and blood.

Practicing harm reduction — knowing what you’re using, how it works, and how to protect yourself — makes a big difference.

Stay safe. Stay informed. COMRED is here if you have questions, concerns, or just need someone to talk to. 💙