[1, 2]
The Effect of Drugs and Alcohol on Sexuality
Chapter 2
Cocaine is another drug that has a reputation for being a sexual
stimulant. Also included in this category are amphetamines, such
as speed. These drugs make people feel confident, in control, and
generally indestructible. Many people report that the use of these
drugs render them highly aroused, but interestingly enough many
men report that cocaine also delays ejaculation and gives them the
ability to have intercourse for long periods of time. It has been
long standing rumor that if a woman rubs cocaine on her clitoris,
her arousal and sensitivity to touch will be greatly heightened,
but this isn't necessarily true as cocaine can also be used as a
topical anesthetic to deaden sensation. Other modern drugs, including
ecstasy are thought to increase libido and heighten sensation.
Alcohol and drugs additionally produce many negative sexual side
effects. When men drink large volumes of alcohol, it can be very
difficult to attain and sustain an erection. Women who imbibe too
much often find it very difficult to achieve orgasm, as they report
that it deadens sensation. Many male alcoholics also suffer from
impotence and both male and female alcoholics suffer from general
lack of sexual desire.
Drugs such as heroin and morphine are also often responsible for
sexual dysfunction. Nearly half of male addicts are impotent and
many of the female addicts are inorgasmic. Almost all of them report
low levels of sexual interest. Similar dysfunction is reported for
crack or free-basing cocaine users.
Many prescription drugs also have negative effects on sexuality.
Tranquilizers, such as Valium and Librium commonly cause anorgasmia
in women and erectile dysfunction in men. Many medications given
to treat high blood pressure also cause similar symptoms, particularly
a drug called Aldomet. Also prescribed for high blood pressure is
a drug called Ismelin, which has the effect of preventing or inhibiting
ejaculation in about half of the men who use it. Even common antihistamines
may decrease sexual desire and also often cause vaginal dryness
in women! Additionally, any medication which utilizes hormones will
affect your sexual behavior. For example birth control pills may
increase or decrease your sex drive. If you are using any of these
medications and are experiencing even moderate sexual dysfunction,
or suspect you might be, discuss it with your doctor, as there is
often an alternative medicine that may be prescribed.
The use of alcohol and drugs for inappropriate and criminal sexual
behavior is definitely worth mentioning here. Many women are victims
of this practice, and have been raped while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs - being more vulnerable than if they were sober.
One of the more frightening drugs used for the purpose of date rape
is "GHB", which is basically drain cleaner mixed with
either floor stripper or degreasing solvent. It is tasteless, odorless
and colorless, making it easy to slip into someone's drink without
the person realizing it. It often renders the victim absolutely
immobile, seldom able to speak and often unconscious. Obviously,
under these circumstances, it is impossible for the victim to defend
herself at all or even yell for help. Another more common 'date-rape"
drug which has been wreaking havoc in universities and colleges
across the continent is Rohypnol made by Hoffman-La Roche, Inc.
Commonly known as "roofies" it shares many similarities
with GHB but is more difficult to detect and has the further effect
of inhibiting memory of events which occur while under its influence.
Drugs such as GHB and Rohypnol are a real threat; so ensure you
take proper precautions to avoid becoming the next victim. As over-indulgence
in alcohol and drugs often results in sexual dysfunction among a
myriad of other negative side effects, they should be used with
caution and moderation. Additionally, prescription drugs should
always be taken in accordance with your doctor's instructions. Alcohol
and drugs have been used to increase sexual desire for thousands
of years. While the use of a few drinks is generally thought of
as socially acceptable, the use of illegal drugs is not and is in
no way condoned by this site or its associates.
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