Poppers
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For other uses, see Popper (disambiguation).
Variety of popper brands

Poppers is a slang term for various alkyl nitrites inhaled for recreational purposes, particularly isopropyl nitrite (2-propyl nitrite) and isobutyl nitrite (2-methylpropyl nitrite), and now more rarely, butyl nitrite and amyl nitrite (isoamyl nitrite, isopentyl nitrite).[1] Amyl nitrite is used medically as an antidote to cyanide poisoning,[2] but the term "poppers" refers specifically to recreational use. Amyl nitrite and several other alkyl nitrites, which are present in products such as air freshener,video head cleaner [3] and finger nail polish remover[4], are often inhaled with the goal of enhancing sexual pleasure.[5] These products have also been part of the club culture from the 1970s disco scene to the 1980s and 1990s rave scene.[6] Poppers have a long history of use due to the rush of warm sensations and dizziness experienced when the vapours are inhaled.

Although, according to at least one analysis, poppers have a lower risk of harm to society and the individual than do certain other recreational drugs,[7] other cases have shown that serious adverse effects can occur. In a letter to the New England Journal of Medicine, an ophthalmologist described four cases in which recreational users of poppers experienced temporary changes in vision.[8] There is some evidence to indicate that even occasional use of poppers may affect vision.[9] Accidentally swallowing or aspirating the liquid, rather than inhaling the vapours, is certainly dangerous and can prove fatal.[10][11]

Effects

Inhaling nitrites relaxes smooth muscles throughout the body, including the sphincter muscles of the anus and the vagina.[2] It is unclear if there is a direct effect on the brain.[19] Smooth muscle surrounds the body's blood vessels and when relaxed causes these vessels to dilate resulting in an immediate increase in heart rate and blood flow throughout the body, producing a sensation of heat and excitement that usually lasts for a couple of minutes.[20]

Alkyl nitrites are often used as a club drug or to enhance a sexual experience.[5] The head rush, euphoria, and other sensations that result from the increased heart rate are often felt to increase sexual arousal and desire.[5]

While anecdotal evidence reveals that both men and women can find the experience of using poppers pleasurable, this experience is not universal;[21] some men report that poppers can cause short-term erectile problems.[citation needed]