Viagra, methamphetamine, and HIV risk: results from a probability sample of MSM, San Francisco

Sex Transm Dis. 2007 Aug;34(8):586-91. doi: 10.1097/01.olq.0000258339.17325.93.

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the prevalence and factors of Viagra use in combination with crystal methamphetamine and its association with HIV risk behavior in a probability sample of men who have sex with men (MSM).

Study design: A cross-sectional, random-digit dial telephone survey of MSM in San Francisco conducted between June 2002 and January 2003.

Results: Of the 1976 MSM, 13.5% used Viagra alone, 7.1% used methamphetamine without Viagra, 9.6% used Viagra with a mood-altering substance (excluding methamphetamine), and 5.1% used Viagra with methamphetamine. Of the MSM using Viagra with methamphetamine, 57% were HIV-infected and 24% of these men reported serodiscordant unprotected insertive intercourse. Viagra used with methamphetamine was independently associated with a higher risk of serodiscordant unprotected insertive intercourse, serodiscordant unprotected receptive intercourse, and a recent diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease.

Conclusion: MSM who use Viagra with crystal methamphetamine have high prevalence rates of HIV and engage in HIV risk behaviors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology*
  • HIV Infections / etiology
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Homosexuality, Male*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methamphetamine*
  • Middle Aged
  • Piperazines*
  • Prevalence
  • Purines
  • Risk Factors
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Sampling Studies
  • San Francisco / epidemiology
  • Sildenafil Citrate
  • Sulfones*

Substances

  • Piperazines
  • Purines
  • Sulfones
  • Methamphetamine
  • Sildenafil Citrate