Street Names

Rush, Locker Room, Ram, Thrust, Hardware, TNT, Nitrites, Kix, Rock Hard

Description

Clear yellow liquid in small glass capsules or bottles.

Routes of use

Inhalation

History

The Alkyl Nitrites (amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite and isobutyl nitrite) are a family of chemicals with vasodilatory properties (dilate blood vessels). Amyl nitrite was discovered in 1857 and used to relieve heart pains associated with angina by increasing the blood flow to the heart by dilating its blood vessels. It is also an antidote to cyanide poisoning which is now its preferred use. The name 'poppers' comes from the sound heard when the glass capsule containing it was cracked open to release the vapour. Its availability as an over the counter medicine in the early 1960's led to its popularity amongst the homosexual community who used it to relax the muscles of the anus to make intercourse easier. Butyl nitrite which is less potent than amyl nitrite was marketed as a 'room odouriser' because of its sweet smell when fresh (this eventually starts to smell like old socks). It was available through sex shops or gay bars primarily for the gay community but has recently become popular amongst 'straight' young people on the dance scene.

Effects people seek

The effects of the drug can be felt within seconds. Users experience a 'rush' as blood flow increases to the brain. This can cause light-headedness and dizziness and a flushing of the face and neck followed by relaxation. The effects subside after a few minutes. Alkyl nitrates have been used to make anal intercourse easier by relaxing the anal muscles, it is also claimed to prolong orgasm and prevent premature ejaculation.

Other effects

The changes in blood flow can have serious consequences in many people, they can lead to unconsciousness and falls which can cause injury. It is especially dangerous in people with pre-existing blood pressure, heart or circulatory problems. Nitrates are known inhibitors of the immune system and may be connected with the development of rare cancers in AIDS victims. Physical effects of nitrite use include nausea, weakness, cold sweats, dermatitis of the lips, nose and cheeks and an increased pressure within the eyeball. The reduction in the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood can cause cyanosis of the lips and mouth and can even progress to shock and in some cases death.

Dependence & Tolerance

Tolerance to nitrite use develops with a couple of weeks but is soon lost after a few days of abstinence. There are no withdrawal symptoms or psychological dependence.

The Law