from Medical Issues

"Crystal Meth" New Drug Of Choice
On Gay Party Circuit

August 31, 2004 -- A longtime member of the New York Gay Men's Chorus, Bobby Darnell, nearly became a casualty of the crystal methamphetamine drug scene. His story is told in a New York Times feature article published August 29.

Darnell began using crystal meth in casual sexual encounters and began searching the Internet for sexual liaisons. References on the Internet to "PNP" parties (shorthand for "party and play" - meaning sex and drugs) helps drug-addicted gay men find sex parties. Darnell was eventually hospitalized for his growing addiction but later stopped using the drug.

The use of crystal meth to enhance sexual experiences has spread rapidly among gay partiers--especially during the past three to four years.

A March, 2004 edition of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution provides more details on the spread of crystal methamphetamine use among gays. The drug has increased HIV-infection among homosexual men.