Amyl nitrite, the scientific name of Poppers, dilates the blood vessels in the body and is purposedly used for medical procedures and in the treatment of poisoning by cyanide. However, today, poppers are also used by many to enhance sexual experience. The most common brand found and mostly referred to in Thailand is Rush.
Poppers is a clear, highly volatile and extremely flammable liquid that is inhaled directly from the bottle by its user. Effects are felt within 30 seconds of inhalation and may last for up to two or three minutes.
There is no such thing as a safe level of drug use. Substance use carries risk. It’s important to be careful when taking any drugs. Poppers may affect people differently based on:
– A person’s body weight
– General state of health
– Regular use of substance
– If taken in combination with other drugs including prescription medication
– The amount that is inhaled
The effect of poppers can be felt almost immediately and may last up to a few minutes. These may include:
– Head rush
– Euphoria
– Flushing of the face
– Increased heart rate
– Warming sensations
– Feelings of excitement
– Relaxation of involuntary muscles, especially the anal and vaginal sphincter Psychological effects include increased sensual awareness, visual distortions, lowered inhibitions and impaired judgement.
While the level of harm generally experienced from inhalation of poppers is low, the use of these substances can result in a range of clinical conditions varying from mild allergic reactions to life threatening methaeglobinaemia (a blood disorder which can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to body tissue). Poppers should be avoided by people who are anaemic, pregnant and those with a history of high blood pressure. Long term effects of poppers use include:
– Skin lesions
– Dermatological problems particularly around the nose, mouth, lips and face
– Increased intraocular pressure (risky for people with underlying glaucoma)
If you’re going to use any form of drug, go about it safely. You make the choices that determine what substances you put into your body. Whatever the choice
– remember to be safe and responsible
– with yourself and with others. We’ve got some helpful tips to consider.
– Set limits for yourself, and stick to them – Don’t let other people pressure you into doing drugs
– Try to avoid mixing drugs with other drugs or be informed about the risks
– Try to be aware of exactly what you are taking and how much
Whilst the possibility of death or even serious injury from inhaling amyl is remote, if you happen to swallow rather than inhale that thing you’re gonna cause major medical problems by interfering with the ability of the blood to transport oxygen. Ingesting any of the nitrite family is extremely dangerous and may result in death. Inhaling the fluid rather than the vapours because you’re munted and have been trying to sniff whilst lying in a horizontal position can lead to severe medical issues.
Emergency calls:
Bangkok Medical Emergency 1646
Nationwide Medical Emergency 1669
When you combine poppers with sex, you may get the urge to unlock sexual desires which you might ordinarily not consider doing when not getting high on poppers. This means people can end up doing things they never thought they would do and may or may not have wanted to do. For example, when fully sober, Tong will know a limit on how long he can get fucked. While high on poppers, however, Tong often lost track of time and have a long fucking session much longer than the usual, which will easily give him higher risk of bleeding ass and contraction with STI and HIV. If you often engage in chemsex with no condoms on, you must consider taking PrEP, which may prevent you from getting infected with HIV. Find out more about PrEP here.
The effect of poppers in combination with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medication is unpredictable. Poppers + ED drugs like Viagra will place enormous strain on the body and may affect the rate of breathing, place excess stress on the heart and blood vessels. This could result in blacking out or a fatal drop in blood pressure.
Poppers + Amphetamine/MDMA/Ecstasy will increase the strain on the heart and put the body under excess stress.
Psychological withdrawal is more common than physical symptoms with poppers. People coming off poppers after a period of use may experience:
– Fatigue and or general irritability
– A reduced ability to experience pleasure
testBKK have gathered all the information of help, support, rehabilitation center and consultation for alcohol and drug usage in Bangkok metropolitan.
Mental health and drug user hotline
If you have mental health or drug abuse, don’t keep it to yourself, talk to someone about it. It could be anything, ranging from mental health issues like suicide thoughts or stress to consultation on your personal health. These hotlines are free and will be confidential.
To find information on mental health and drug abuse
Harm reduction centers
Harm reduction center, provides harm reduction from drug related health issue services like providing sterile needles. If you have a plan to reduce or stop using drugs and want to build capacity, these centers could help you. You will be safe and receive friendly service and supporting voices from the staff.
To find more information on harm reduction centers
Rehabilitation center for drug users
If you are looking to rehabilitate, there are many facilities that are ready to support you on reducing and quitting using drugs. There are both OPD and IPD options, and the service ranges from drug withdrawal, rehabilitation and follow-up.
To find more information on rehabilitation center for drug users
If you want to find more information on alcohol and drugs click here
And if you want to get your blood test, you could reserve your appointment online with our partnered clinic here
The information given on this page is not medical advice and should not be relied upon in that way. Individuals wanting medical advice about Poppers should consult a health professional.
