Poppers. (Amyl Nitrite)
Class: Prescription Only Medicine
Street Names - Poppers, Rush, Rave, Liquid Gold
Description
Nitrites are a group of chemicals derived from nitrous oxide. They are highly volatile, flammable, yellow liquids that are sweet smelling and evaporate easily at room temperature. Nitrites come in small glass capsules or little bottles with screw or plug tops. Butyl Nitrite is more commonly bought for recreational use in the UK.
How it is used
Amyl and Butyl Nitrite are generally inhaled.
Effects
The nitrites cause blood pressure to drop by enlarging blood vessels, which makes the heart pump rapidly. They give a rush of light-headedness and sometimes a brief loss of physical control. Nitrites are often used to intensify sexual experiences. The effects start after about fifteen seconds and last up to three minutes.
The Law
The Nitrites are prescription only drugs under the Medicines Act. It is not illegal to possess them, but illegal vendors may be prosecuted.
Risk Reduction
Practise safer sex and use a condom in addition to other contraception to reduce the risks of sexually transmitted infections such as Hepatitis, Chlamydia and HIV.