Poppers
Nicknames:
Rush, amyl, liquid gold, high-tech, rave, ram, stage, stud etc.
What does it look like?
A clear yellowish liquid, which is usually supplied in a thumb sized bottle. Fresh poppers smell sweet and fruity, but stale chemical smells like old socks.
How it is used:
Poppers are sniffed directly from the bottle/tube, either through the mouth or nose, and should never be swallowed or injected.
The highs:
The effects from inhaling poppers are instantaneous, but very short lived (approx 2-5 minutes after sniffing it). There may be a burst of energy, and a rushing sensation because the heart beats faster. You may also feel a little light-headed after the initial rush because your blood pressure is reduced. There can also be the feeling of being sexually aroused.
The lows:
The fall in blood pressure can cause light-headedness, dizziness or fainting. It can also cause flushing of the face, palpitations, headaches and a burning sensation around the mouth and nose. Although it's believed to enhance orgasm, the effects of the drug means that poppers may make it difficult to keep an erection. It can also burn the skin if spilt, users should be especially careful not to get poppers in their eyes.
The law:
Amyl nitrite is a prescription-only medicine. Possession is not illegal, but supply can still be an offence. (See Drugs - The Law for more information.)
Contacts
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Other drugs:
- alcohol
- amphetamines
- anabolic steroids
- cannabis
- cocaine
- crack
- ecstasy
- GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate)
- heroin
- ketamine
- khat
- LSD
- mushrooms
- poppers
- rohypnol
- solvents
- tobacco
- tranquillisers
Reproduced with kind permission of NHS Direct Wales - www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/theroom
