Poppers are small bottles filled with liquid chemicals called alkyl nitrites. Nitrites like amyl nitrite (and butyl nitrite and isobutyl nitrite) dilate the blood vessels and allow more blood to get to the heart. They're usually sniffed straight from the bottle and deliver a short, sharp high. Poppers are often sold in sex shops, clubs and gay bars.
Street names:
Thrust, Rock Hard, Kix, TNT, Liquid Gold
Effects:
An initial head rush that lasts a couple of minutes. People using nitrites for sexual pleasure often report orgasms feel like they last longer and may help relax anal sphincter muscles.
Drug Form & Method of Use:
Nitrites originally came as small glass capsules that were popped open, hence the name. Now, they're likely to be in small bottles with brand names like Ram, Thrust and Rock Hard. One sniff and you can feel the effects. These fade after a couple of minutes.
Health risks:
The effects don't last long and can leave people feeling sick, faint and weak. Especially if taken while dancing. Poppers can give you an extreme headache. Some people get a rash around their mouth. Poppers are toxic and can kill you if you swallow them. Taking poppers is a dangerous idea for anyone with chest or heart problems, anaemia or glaucoma (an eye disease).
Tolerance:
One sniff and you can feel the effects. These fade after a couple of minutes.
Law:
Possession of Amyl Nitrite is not illegal but supply can be an offence. There've been cases where the Medicines Act was used to fine shops for selling them, but they're still sold as Room Aromas or Deodorisers in sex shops and some clubs.
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