Effects of Psychoactive Substances on the Desire For Love and for Sex and on Sexual Performance - Results of a Questionnaire-Study with 1 616 People - Mostly with Multiple Drug Use Experience

Anonymous questionnaires were distributed to 1616 drug using individuals to enquire about changes in (A) the need for love and affection, (B) the desire for sexual experiences, and (C) the sexual performance after consuming drugs. The questionnaire assessed the effects of 9 main drugs, as well as 25 other psychoactive substances. The highest increase in need for love, together with a significantly elevated libido, was reported after the use of ecstasy (MDMA), followed by cannabis. Cocaine was associated with the highest libido and the most intense sexual performance, although with no significant increase in feeling of love and affection. Poppers and cocaine were often consumed to increase sexual desire. However, with regard to eliciting feelings of love and affection, Poppers take the penultimate place among all drugs. Alcohol, psyilocybin mushrooms, amphetamines, LSD, and heroin are not considered important with regard to sexuality. The consumption of high doses of drugs compared to moderate doses has inhibiting effects (except for ecstasy/MDMA) with regard to the study's 3 parameters. Drug use, as described in the study, may be viewed as an act of self-medication. A better understanding of the link between moderate drug use and satisfying sexual experiences could lead to a more mindful use of psychoactive substances.