"Chemical Seduction": a narrative review of the complex impact of recreational drugs on sexual function.
International journal of impotence research October 17, 2025 Nir Meller, Noam Kitrey
Recreational drugs like amphetamines, MDMA, mephedrone, GHB, and ketamine are used to enhance sexual pleasure and performance, but they carry significant health risks. Amphetamines increase desire and delay ejaculation but can cause compulsive sexual behavior, erectile dysfunction, and dependency. MDMA boosts intimacy and orgasm intensity yet may impair erectile and ejaculatory function, with chronic use leading to lasting sexual problems. Mephedrone heightens desire and reduces inhibitions, though evidence is limited. GHB increases arousal and lowers inhibitions but poses a high risk of dependency. Ketamine has minimal effects on sexual function but chronic use is linked to urinary and sexual dysfunction. Across all substances, unsafe sexual behaviors and increased STI/HIV transmission are major negative consequences, highlighting the need for controlled research and legitimate treatments for sexual dysfunction.