If you frequent party scenes, there is a great chance you have come across poppers, even if you did not recognise them by that name. They are often marketed under labels, such as nail polish remover, solvents, leather cleaner or air fresheners, for legal reasons.

Regardless, poppers have become a popular sensory enhancer in modern parties. But how much do you actually know about them? Let’s explore the popularity of poppers, how they work and how to use them safely to avoid accidents.

How do Poppers Work?

Popper is a general term used to describe a liquid substance that people inhale to induce euphoria and relaxation. The inhalants got their name from the vials that they were previously sold in, which made a popping sound when crushed. The name has stuck, even though Poppers Aromas and other leading sellers have made a switch to glass bottles.

These inhalants are categorised as amyl nitrates. Initially, this class of chemicals was used as a remedy for heart-related problems, such as chest pain and Angina. However, people quickly discovered that they had other side effects that made them perfect sensory enhancers for parties and other recreational activities. However, don’t get me wrong, amyl nitrites are very much still in use medically.

You may be wondering, “How do poppers work to give that rush of euphoria and relaxation?” Well, poppers are essentially vasodilators – which means they work by widening blood vessels. When you open the container and inhale, the blood vessels dilate, causing a rapid drop in blood pressure. It is this effect that gives you a feeling of dizziness and relaxation. However, the feeling is short-lived, lasting for only a few minutes.

The Popularity of Poppers in Party Culture

As mentioned earlier, amyl nitrates were initially used in medical settings. So, how did they evolve to become a staple in modern parties?

The relationship between poppers and the recreational scene started sometime in the late 1960s and early 1970s. However, in these early years, they were particularly popular with the LGBTQ+ communities due to their muscle relaxation effects. Additionally, they cause a certain warmth and euphoria that lowers inhibitions on sexual excitement. These two effects enhanced the pleasure of sexual activities, earning them immense popularity within the circles.

In modern times, anyone can use poppers for different purposes – but primarily to feel the rush (as a sensory enhancer). As such, the inhalants have seemingly found a notable place in the party scene and other social interactions. Nightlife enthusiasts particularly use poppers as they help contribute to the sense of camaraderie and a shared experience between them. In addition, the rush you get from inhalation helps amplify the enjoyment of everything around you. For instance, it makes the music feel a little more enjoyable, the dancing is a little livelier and the lights are more intense.

Safe Usage Tips for Poppers

Although poppers are generally safe, with a low risk of addiction, it is still very important to practice safe usage. But before we get into the tips, let’s look at a few potential side effects and health risks associated with inhalants.

Some potential side effects of using poppers include headache, nausea, vomiting and restlessness. Some people have also reported some irritation around the nose, causing a rash. However, it is essential to note that these effects are not usually dangerous. And it can be perfectly fine to use poppers if you follow these safety tips:

Dosage and Frequency

As they say, too much of anything is poisonous. So, it is important to limit the amount of poppers you inhale at any given time. Inhaling too much could lead to negative side effects, including overwhelming dizziness and headaches. A good rule of thumb is to take small, short whiffs and then wait till the effects are completely worn off before going in again.

Only Inhale – DON’T INGEST

Poppers have very potent fumes – which means the liquid is highly concentrated. They are not, by any stretch, energy drinks, so users should never ingest them. Drinking poppers can lead to blood poisoning with symptoms including difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness and blue-colouring of skin.

Don’t Combine Poppers with Other Substances

As it is commonly used at parties, many people might be tempted to try out poppers with other substances. That is not a very good idea. Taking the inhalants with other drugs could lead to dangerous drops in blood pressure. For instance, if you combine poppers with Viagra – which also lowers blood pressure – you could risk loss of consciousness, fainting or even stroke and heart attack.

Store Safely and Dispose Responsibly

Store your poppers in a cool and dark place to avoid degradation. Additionally, keep them far from children’s reach to prevent any accidents. Once you are done with a bottle, dispose responsibly to minimise the risk of harming pets and the environment in general.

Final Thoughts

Poppers have become very popular in party cultures as a result of their reputation as sensory enhancers. However, it is essential to practice safe usage to minimise the risk of unwanted outcomes. For instance, do not ingest poppers or combine them with other drugs. Additionally, use them in moderation and keep them away from children and pets to avoid accidents. When it’s all said and done, poppers are meant to help you relax and have fun – so always strive to find that perfect balance between enjoyment and safety!