🔴 Poppers (Alkyl Nitrites)
Source: Harm Reduction Victoria · DanceWize Victoria SSB
Overview
Poppers are short-lasting drugs that cause a headrush and muscle relaxation when inhaled as a vapour.
Alkyl nitrites, also known as 'poppers', are short-lasting drugs which cause a headrush and muscle relaxation. They appear as liquids that produce a vapour that can be inhaled. The first, amyl nitrite, was made in 1844 and was used to help relieve angina (chest pains).
Widespread recreational use of amyl nitrite is thought to have started in the 1960s. After consequent restrictions on its production and use, various other related alkyl nitrites appeared. Poppers are usually found in the form of a liquid chemical sold in a small bottle.
It is a depressant. They dilate the blood vessels and allow more blood to get to the heart. Amyl nitrite, in common with other alkyl nitrites, is a potent vasodilator, meaning that it dilates the blood vessels of the individual, allowing more blood to pass through and so lowering blood pressure.
Alkyl nitrite functions as a source of nitric oxide, which signals relaxation of the involuntary muscles. In some countries, to evade antidrug laws, poppers are labelled and/or packaged as room deodorisers, leather polish or tape head cleaner.
Safer Using
Try to use in comfortable environments with people you trust to look out for you if you overdo it. Inhale the fumes/vapour through your nose by holding the open bottle up to one nostril - never swallow, plug or inject. Avoid contact with skin.
If it comes into contact with skin, wash with water immediately—Poppers are corrosive. Avoid smoking or open flames—Poppers are corrosive & flammable. Start with a very small amount to gauge strength and assess your sensitivity.
Dose is determined by the depth and length of the inhalation. Consider carefully before re dosing as it is easy to take too much. Overdose symptoms include nausea, vomiting, hypotension, hypoventilation, shortness of breath, and syncope (fainting).
⚠ Avoid Combining With
Other vasodilators ie. Viagra (sidenafil), Levitra (vardenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) - can cause cardiac arrest. Meth/amphetamines - will increase the strain on the heart and put the body under excess stress.
Alcohol - may worsen hypotension, the potential to cause cardiovascular collapse. It is not recommended to use Poppers if you have or are at risk of: High/low blood pressure, An illness requiring prescribed vasodilators, Heart issues, Glaucoma, Anaemia, Pregnancy, Chest infection, Breathing difficulties or other respiratory issues.
🚨 If Things Go Wrong
Roadside saliva tests do not look for alkyl nitrites. It is illegal to drive under the influence of any illicit drugs, including poppers and any driver may be subject to a roadside behavioural impairment test. Wait at least 24 hours before driving.
It is so rapidly metabolised that it is not able to be tested for in the workplace. Effects of long term use of these substances can result in a range of clinical conditions varying from mild allergic reactions to life threatening methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder which can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to body tissue). Long term effects of Alkyl Nitrites include: Skin lesions, Dermatological problems particularly around the nose, mouth, lips and face, Increased intraocular (eye) pressure (risky for people with underlying glaucoma).
Poppers are light-sensitive and are best kept in a cool, dark, dry place, store away from a flame in a tinted bottle. Label appropriately to avoid accidents. Poppers can corrode the skin.
Avoid direct contact. Not to be consumed orally, rectally, or in any other manner than inhaling the fumes/vapour. In Australia it is illegal to sell, supply or inhale products containing any of the five following nitrites: amyl, iso-amyl, alkyl, butyl and octyl – unless it is under specifically approved circumstances such as a prescription from a medical practitioner, pharmacist supply or distribution by a licence holder.
The contents of 'Poppers' bottles can be corrosive to skin and the left over vapours flammable so take care when disposing. DO NOT pour down the sink or into drains. KNOW YOUR LOCAL LAWS.
Effects
Light headedness Warm sensation Relaxation of smooth muscles Increased heart rate Increased libido Skin sensitivity Increased body temperature Impaired/decreased coordination & muscle control Dizziness Nausea Headache Blurred vision Vomiting Hypotension Dyspnea (shortness of breath) Hypoventilation Syncope (fainting) Euphoria Increased sensual awareness Excitement Visual distortions Memory loss
Dose & Duration
Alkyl Nitrites are for inhalation only. The most common method of use is to hold an open bottle near the nostril (not against the skin) and inhale the vapour for a maximum of 5 seconds. Poppers are FATAL if consumed by mouth - Drinking WILL result in COMA or DEATH.
Total duration: 1-5 minutes, Onset: 0-30 seconds, Peak: 30 seconds - 2 minutes, Coming Down: 1-3 minutes, After effects/hangover: 1-5 minutes.