Highly popular with young people who frequent dance clubs, crystal meth and its cousin "Ecstasy" both induce a feeling of elation and alertness. This sense of well-being is dangerous, though, as it lessens inhibitions and can lead to unprotected sex with multiple partners. HIV rates are high among methamphetamine users, putting younger MSM at an increased risk for infection.

Meth-induced lapses in judgment leading to promiscuous sexual behavior make users more likely to contract HIV, but the drug itself could also increase the risk "because it may suppress a part of your immune system that's important in fighting off HIV," said Dr. Antonio Urbina, lead author of the study. Furthermore, he said, meth and its analogs, such as "Ecstasy," can be fatal when mixed with certain antiretroviral treatment (ART). In addition, HIV-positive meth users on HIV medications are missing more doses and are likely contributing to the spread of drug-resistant strains of HIV, said Dr. Urbina.

Among HIV-positive patients not receiving ART, meth use may increase the risk of developing HIV dementia, a condition associated with reduced motor and verbal skills. Methamphetamine decreases dopamine transporter levels, causing symptoms akin to those of Parkinson's disease, and when combined with HIV's toxic effects on the brain, "there's an overlap in neurotoxicity between methamphetamine and HIV," said Dr. Urbina. "That's potentially the most serious side effect."

Getting the word out to young people about the risks of meth use may be difficult. "I really think there's a lack of information about the catastrophic risks of methamphetamine use, particularly in young MSMs," said Dr. Urbina, e
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Contact: Jeff Minerd
jminerd@idsociety.org
703-299-0412
Infectious Diseases Society of America
2-Mar-2004