HIV and club drugs in emerging adulthood.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To evaluate the incidence of club drug use in pediatric patients, especially those aged 13-25, and how it relates to the spread of HIV. RECENT FINDINGS: Transmission of HIV among younger patients has become largely associated with risky sexual behaviors, as the rate of transmission from vertical infection and intravenous drug use has decreased. Use of club drugs in emerging adult populations contributes to the HIV epidemic through a combination of decreased inhibitions as well as physiological effects that increase high-risk sexual practices. Robust data exists linking the use of club drugs by the men who have sex with men population with spread of HIV, but this data in other at-risk populations (e.g. African Americans) is not as robust. Additional research is needed to identify the rates of transmission among adolescents and emerging adults, as well as knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices that affect HIV transmission in this population. SUMMARY: Use of club drugs by adolescents and emerging adults contributes to the current rate of HIV transmission among this age group.