NITRITES/RUSH/POPPERS

what are they?

The nitrites are close relatives in a family of chemicals derived from nitrous oxide.

They are highly volatile flammable liquids which easily evaporate at room temperature. Yellow in colour, they are sweet smelling when fresh and otherwise can be likened in smell to rotten fruit or old socks.

The term 'poppers' came from the small glass capsules in which the liquids were first available. These made a popping noise when broken open to release the contents. Nitrites for recreational use now come in little bottles with screw or plug tops.

The best known of the nitrites is amyl nitrite, discovered in 1857. Ten years later it was introduced as treatment for angina, due to its ability to relieve pressure by opening up vessels delivering blood to the heart. It is still used for this purpose although other treatments have largely taken over.

'Poppers' bought for recreational use in the U.K. are usually the less potent butyl nitrite, not amyl nitrite.

what are the effects?

Amyl and butyl nitrite are generally inhaled. The effects of the drug start after about 15 seconds, and last for up to 3 minutes.

The nitrites cause blood pressure to go down, by enlarging the blood vessels, which makes the heart pump rapidly. Users' experiences vary but often a rush of light-headedness is accompanied by a brief intense high and feeling of dizziness.

Some users temporarily lose physical control, for example falling over or falling off chairs. There may be hot flushing as the body relaxes, which lasts seconds and a carefree feeling of well-being. As a result, nitrites are often used to intensify sexual experiences.

However, while they may make the experiences of orgasm seem longer, the body probably 'performs' less well. Often the user will feel light headed and giggly for a few minutes, before the effects go completely.

what are the side effects?

Overdoses from the use of amyl nitrite are rare. They have probably only occurred when the liquid has been mistakenly drunk, rather than inhaled.

Tolerance can occur but physical withdrawal symptoms have not been reported. A small number do come to rely on it. Some of the less pleasant side effects include headache, vomiting, dizziness, flushing and coughing. These should stop if the drug is not used. Anyone with low blood pressure must be particularly wary about using the drug, as should those with heart problems.what is the legal position?

Amyl nitrite and butyl nitrite are controlled under the Medicines Act 1968.

It is not illegal to possess amyl nitrite or butyl nitrite. However, it can be illegal to supply.

Being unfit to drive under the influence of any intoxicant, including amyl nitrite or butyl nitrite, is an offence which is likely to lead to the loss of your driving licence. Getting your licence back and obtaining insurance after losing it are likely to be difficult.

Sentences for drug offences depend upon the quantities involved, previous convictions and other relevant circumstances.

For further clarification of the current legal position please call our legal helpline or consult your solicitor.