Amyl nitrite and several other alkyl nitrites which are used in over-the-counter products, such as air fresheners and video head cleaners, may be inhaled to enhance sexual pleasure. Use is particularly prominent among urban Gay men. These products have long been part of the club culture from the 1970s disco scene to the 1980s and 1990s rave scene.

Inhaling nitrites relaxes smooth muscles throughout the body, including the sphincter muscles of the anus and the vagina. This causes the blood vessels to dilate (which causes a sudden drop in blood pressure), increases heart rate, and produces a sensation of heat and excitement that usually lasts for a couple of minutes.

Alkyl nitrites are often used as a club drug or to enhance a sexual experience. The head rush, euphoria, uncontrollable laughter or giggling, and other sensations that result from the blood pressure drop are often felt to increase sexual arousal and desire. At the same time, the relaxation of the sphincters of the anus and vagina can make penetration easier. It is widely reported that poppers can enhance and prolong orgasms.

While anecdotal evidence reveals that both men and women can find the experience of using poppers pleasurable, this experience is not universal; Some men report that poppers can cause short-term erectile problems,

Amyl nitrite leads to a non-specific relaxation of smooth muscle, resulting in coronary vasodilation and decreased systemic vascular resistance and left ventricular preload and after load. Sir Thomas Lauder Brunton, (14 March 1844, 16 September 1916) a Scottish physician, is famously-associated with the use of amyl nitrite to treat angina pectoris.

Amyl nitrite is controlled under the Medicines Act, and although possession is legal, supply may be an offence.  Other nitrites are readily available in consumer products such as room odorants and leather cleaner, and numerous shops, particularly sex shops, clubs, and shops selling drug paraphernalia, sell them as "room aromas".   Additionally, isobutyl nitrite has also been classified as a class 2 carcinogen making retail sale technically prohibited. The same brand names of poppers have continued past the ban, but now consist of isopropyl nitrite.

Prices are commonly in the range of £2–7 GBP per 15 or 25ml bottle.

High doses of nitrites may cause the rare disorder methemoglobinemia, especially in individuals predisposed towards such a condition. It is suggested that taking Viagra with nitrites could cause a serious decrease in blood pressure, leading to fainting, stroke, or even heart attack. As poppers increase pressure within the eyeball, users with glaucoma take additional risks when using poppers.

There has also been a suggestion that poppers may weaken the immune system, however any damage is undone within a few days of halting use. Other risks include burns if spilt on skin, loss of consciousness, headaches, and red or itching rashes around the mouth and nose.

In a 2006 article published in London's THE INDEPENDENT titled 'Drugs: the real deal', it was revealed that the first ranking based upon scientific evidence of harm to both individuals and society, devised by British-government advisers, showed that "Poppers" pose little potential harm to individuals.

Warning about Amyl Nitrate use

- If swallowed call emergency services at it is very poisonous/toxic.
- Contact with the skin causes irritation and rashes. Extensive use can damage the nose and lungs.
- Some people experience headaches, sensations of spinning or falling, and loss of erection.
- Poppers are highly flammable. Keep away from cigarettes, candles, and lighters.
- Studies show that poppers reduce the functioning of the immune system for several days after use.
- Because poppers cause blood vessels to open, it is easier to get an infection, including sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV.
- Poppers pose extra risks for people who have suppressed immune systems, heart problems, low or high blood pressure, a history of cerebral haemorrhaging, anaemia, or are pregnant.
- Combining poppers with stimulants like speed and cocaine increases risks. Combining poppers and Viagra is dangerous because both cause blood pressure to drop.
- Poppers can affect your judgment. If you are planning on being intimate, put on a condom before you use them.
- To prevent spilling and evaporation, pour a small amount in a separate bottle filled with cotton and store tightly sealed in a refrigerator or freezer.

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