Poppers are a class of recreational drugs that are inhaled for a quick high. These substances, often associated with the LGBTQ+ community, have been in use since the 1970s. The active compounds in poppers are alkyl nitrites, including amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite, and isobutyl nitrite. Despite their recreational usage, poppers have legitimate medical applications, particularly as vasodilators for treating heart conditions like angina.

How Poppers Are Used

Traditionally, poppers were sold in small glass vials that users would crush to release the vapours. Today, they are typically found in small bottles from which the vapour is inhaled directly. Users might also soak a cloth with the liquid and inhale the gas, or dip an unlit cigarette into the liquid and sniff it. However, lighting a cigarette exposed to poppers is highly dangerous due to their flammable nature.

Legal Status of Poppers

In the United States, the sale and possession of poppers are legal, but their recreational consumption is not. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate these products, which are often sold under the guise of other goods such as nail polish removers or air fresheners. Legal repercussions can ensue if poppers are sold or supplied for recreational use, particularly to minors.

The Effects and Risks of Poppers

Poppers work by dilating blood vessels, leading to a rapid drop in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate. This physiological response results in a brief sensation of euphoria, increased sexual arousal, and muscle relaxation, which can make certain sexual activities more comfortable. However, the effects are short-lived, typically lasting only a few minutes.

The immediate side effects can include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Prolonged use can lead to more severe health issues such as vision impairment, skin rashes, and in rare cases, methemoglobinemia—a condition that affects oxygen transport in the blood. Poppers can also increase the risk of infections and have detrimental effects when mixed with other drugs, including those for erectile dysfunction.

Health Implications and Emergency Situations

The use of poppers carries significant health risks. Long-term use can damage the immune system and increase the likelihood of certain cancers. Users with pre-existing health conditions or those who combine poppers with other substances may face heightened risks, including cardiac arrest. Emergency symptoms, such as severe dizziness, bluish skin, or difficulty breathing, require immediate medical attention.

Harm Reduction and Safer Practices

While there is no completely safe way to use poppers, certain practices can reduce harm. Users should avoid ingesting the liquid, mixing poppers with other drugs, and exposing them to flames. Storage in a cool, dry place can prevent evaporation and accidental exposure. Open discussions about consent and safe sex practices are also crucial when poppers are used in sexual contexts.

Alternatives to Poppers

For those seeking the effects of poppers without the associated risks, there are safer, non-drug alternatives to enhance sexual experiences or relax. Techniques such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation, along with ample foreplay and communication with partners, can provide similar benefits without the health hazards.

Source: WebMD.