Poppers have been a staple in the gay community for decades, often used to enhance sexual experiences and provide a quick rush of euphoria. But what exactly are poppers? Here’s what you need to know about this widely used, yet misunderstood, substance.
What Are Poppers?
Poppers is the slang term for alkyl nitrites, a class of chemicals used primarily for recreational purposes. Though often associated with the LGBTQ+ community, especially within sexual contexts, poppers have gained wider recognition in some straight clubs as well. It’s important to understand exactly what you’re inhaling when using poppers.
Photo: Alamy
How Do Poppers Work?
Poppers work by relaxing smooth muscles in the body, including the sphincter muscles in the anus, which is why many people use them during sex. When you inhale poppers, they cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to an increase in heart rate and blood flow, which in turn creates the euphoric feeling associated with their use.
A Cultural Staple Since the 1970s
The use of poppers has deep ties to the gay disco scene of the 1970s. Many gay men would sniff poppers while dancing at clubs to enhance the music and create a heightened sense of pleasure. By the 1990s, poppers became a popular accessory at gay raves. Over time, their use expanded beyond LGBTQ+ spaces, and now some straight individuals use them recreationally in non-sexual settings, especially in club environments.
Photo: Disco Delivery
The Danger of Mixing Poppers and Viagra
It’s crucial to be cautious when using poppers in combination with other substances. Poppers and Viagra both cause a drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous when used together. This dangerous combination can result in fainting, stroke, or even heart attack or death, according to the LGBT Foundation. Always be aware of the risks when using poppers.
Ingestion of Poppers Can Be Deadly
While inhaling poppers is relatively safe in moderation, ingesting them can have lethal consequences. The U.S. National Library of Medicine warns that ingestion, whether intentional or accidental, can result in death. Poppers are meant to be inhaled through the nose, not consumed.
Who Uses Poppers?
Though poppers have been popular in certain communities, they’re not as widely used as other recreational drugs. Only about 3 percent of the population reports using poppers. This is a much smaller percentage compared to the 10 percent of U.S. adults who have smoked marijuana within the past year. Poppers’ popularity is predominantly confined to gay men, reflecting the demographic most likely to use them.
Legal Controversies: The UK’s Attempt to Ban Poppers
In early 2023, the UK nearly banned poppers, citing concerns over safety. However, the move failed due to a technicality, as reported by The Guardian. While poppers remain legal in many countries, their regulation is often contentious.
Canada’s Ban on Poppers
In 2013, Canada moved to ban the sale of poppers, warning that selling them could lead to a three-year jail sentence or a $5,000 fine. This was part of a broader effort to regulate substances associated with recreational drug use.
Health Risks of Poppers
Like any substance, poppers come with potential health risks. Short-term effects can include lightheadedness, headaches, dizziness, and fainting. Long-term use can lead to eye damage, including a condition known as “Poppers Maculopathy,” which can cause vision loss. High doses of poppers can also lead to methaemoglobinaemia, a condition in which blood cells lose the ability to carry oxygen, similar to carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the LGBT Foundation.
The Prescription History of Amyl Nitrite
Amyl nitrite, a type of alkyl nitrite, was originally sold as a prescription drug in the U.S. in 1937 for the treatment of chest pain. However, it was taken off the prescription list in 1960 due to its relatively low risk of harm. By 1969, it was reinstated as a prescription drug. Despite this, you can still find other alkyl nitrites, which are marketed under different names such as “nail polish remover,” in sex shops. These versions are typically available legally for recreational use.
