Last year, Gay Star News published its Chemsex series about the rise of drug use in the gay community. It’s clearly a problem for many.

Crystal meth in Israel

Unfortunately, the use of crystal meth among Israel’s LGBTI community has been on the rise for the last couple years. However, over the past couple months, health officials in the country say it’s gotten worse. Crystal meth is now the drug of choice in Israel’s Chemsex scene. Previously, the scene relied more on drugs such as ketamine, methadone, and GHB. Crystal meth is three times more addictive than cocaine, which can cause huge issues.

‘The problem is much bigger than what has been presented so far,’ said Dr. Roy Zucker of Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Hospital and the Gan Meir LGBT health clinic.

‘We are seeing a sharp shift from GHB and ketamine to crystal meth, especially among young people.’

According to Zucker, there are many reasons for the rise in crystal meth use. ‘It seems to be related the fact that recently it’s been very difficult to obtain GHB, because the police are investing resources to confiscate the date rape drug.’

While crystal meth is generally smoked, it can also be inhaled or injected. It tends to give a feeling of euphoria lasting at least 15 hours, due to an increase of dopamine and serotonin in the brain.

‘People like this drug very much because it gives self-confidence and is sexually arousing, but it’s a terrible drug,’ Zucker said.

The Health Ministry’s Addiction Treatment Department doesn’t have official figures on the use of crystal meth in the LGBTI community. However, according to department director Dr. Paula Rosca, reports still indicate a rise in use.