S/x on Dr/gs Reference
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Clinical + experiential evidence

Amphetamine / Methamphetamine

Stimulant·Recreational / illicit

Effect across the cycle

DesireFacilitatory: Strongly increased; compulsive hypersexuality via mesolimbic dopamine.
ArousalBiphasic: Heightened early; erratic at high dose or with chronic use.
PerformanceInhibitory: High-dose vasoconstriction impairs erection ('crystal dick').
ClimaxInhibitory: Orgasm and ejaculation markedly delayed.
ExperienceFacilitatory: Prolonged, intense, high-stamina encounters reported.
MemoryMixed: Variable; sleep deprivation and intoxication degrade recall.

Mechanism

Massive dopamine and norepinephrine release plus reuptake blockade (methamphetamine also serotonergic). Strongly raises drive and stamina via mesolimbic dopamine and dorsal-striatal D1 systems, producing compulsive hypersexuality. High-dose and chronic use deplete monoamines and impair function. A core 'chemsex' drug.

Pharmacokinetics
Long duration; encounters can extend over many hours or days.
Reversibility
Chronic dopamine/serotonin depletion can leave long-term anhedonia and dysfunction.

Sex differences & notes

Female meth-facilitated sexual motivation depends on dopamine D1 and progesterone-receptor signaling in the posterodorsal medial amygdala (Holder & Mong 2014).

Key sources

  • Holder & Mong, Horm Behav 2014
  • McCann et al., Arch Gen Psychiatry 2008