Table of Contents
The use of poppers is very widespread in the gay scene, but often only the effects are discussed. We believe in providing comprehensive information – here you can find out everything about effects and use, as well as the side effects of poppers. Although their use is generally considered safe, undesirable effects can occur in certain pre-existing conditions, if the dosage is incorrect or if they are used incorrectly.
This is how poppers affect your body after ingestion
Poppers belong to the group of alkyl nitrites and are inhaled through the nose. The effects of poppers are felt almost immediately. Just a few seconds after inhaling the vapors, your body reacts to the ingredients. This is because the active ingredients affect the smooth muscles of the body. These are the muscle groups that you cannot control yourself. These include the blood vessels, intestines, bronchi, and anal sphincter.
The blood vessels dilate abruptly. This causes your blood pressure to drop rapidly and your heart rate to increase. This is a physiological effect that balances out the pressure. Many users feel a strong sensation of warmth, which can lead to slight dizziness and a brief state of intoxication. The face becomes red (flush), the head feels light and floating, and at the same time, the muscles throughout the body relax, which is perceived as very relieving in bed.
Why are poppers used during sex?
Poppers are widely used in the gay scene because their muscle-relaxing effect is perceived as very pleasant. When the blood vessels and smooth muscles relax, this also affects the anal sphincter. The “loosening” facilitates the insertion of sex toys and promotes physical relaxation during anal sex.
However, even experienced, passive anal sex lovers rely on poppers, even if pain and tension are not a problem. This is because poppers can increase the body’s sensitivity. For many users, this triggers increased pleasure when touched and sometimes even a feeling of disinhibition.
In the queer scene, and especially among gay men, the use of poppers has been established for decades. They are not only an aid during sex, but are also used in clubs, during sexual encounters, or at parties as a kind of party drug. The brief high after sniffing triggers a “kick” for many gay men that they don’t want to do without.
These are the typical side effects of poppers
Most gay men see poppers as harmless party fun, and with a healthy body, they remain just that. Nevertheless, you need to be aware that this is a chemical substance that can have side effects.
The most common adverse reactions affect your cardiovascular system. Shortly after inhalation, you may experience…
● … rapid heartbeat
● … dizziness
● … headaches
occur. The sharp drop in blood pressure is a challenge for your circulation. If you have (undiagnosed) pre-existing conditions or low blood pressure, this happens more often. Other side effects of poppers may also occur, including:
● Pressure in the head
● Red face
● Hot flashes
● Burning nasal mucosa
Warning: Poppers must never be taken orally or come into contact with mucous membranes or skin. If the liquid gets into your eyes, it can cause severe irritation and damage.
Burns from poppers are possible
One of the most dangerous physical side effects is poppers burns. If you are careless at a party and accidentally knock over a bottle, your skin will initially burn because it is irritated. Later, yellowish crusts will form, known as poppers dermatitis. This resembles a burn and requires a visit to a dermatologist.
When sniffing poppers, always use a suitable attachment and do not inhale the substance straight from the bottle. This reduces the risk of getting the liquid in your nose.
Side effects of poppers when mixed with alcohol
Side effects are more common with poppers when you combine the sniffing drug with alcohol. This is risky for the circulatory system, as both substances dilate your blood vessels and lower your blood pressure. Alcohol acts with a delay, so the effect does not occur immediately. If you then take poppers, there is a sudden further dilation of the blood vessels and your blood pressure can drop dangerously. The combination of poppers and alcohol can result in your body being unable to regulate itself.
Typical consequences are:
● Sudden feeling of weakness
● Fainting
● Circulatory collapse
In addition, alcohol depresses the central nervous system. Reaction times, coordination, and breathing slow down. If poppers are added, your heart beats faster to compensate for the drop in blood pressure.
Your heart is in steam locomotive mode while the alcohol slows down your nervous system. This conflicting strain can trigger cardiac arrhythmia. If you naturally suffer from low blood pressure or have an unknown heart condition, you are particularly at risk.
Many men underestimate the effect because poppers only have a short-term effect. However, when alcohol is added, the effect is often delayed. Everything feels good, but when you suddenly stand up, dance, or even give your all during sex, the effect can hit you hard. You feel dizzy, you break out in a cold sweat, and in the worst case, you may even lose consciousness.
Important: There is another point to consider. Alcohol reduces your ability to assess risks correctly. Your inhibitions are lowered and you may take more poppers than planned. This in turn increases the risk of circulatory problems and side effects. Incidentally, this also applies to mixing poppers with drugs and mind-altering medications.
Side effects of poppers when combined with medication
If you are taking medication, this will affect the effect of poppers, depending on the preparation. The combination with active ingredients that affect your cardiovascular system is particularly dangerous.
Here are some examples of medications that increase the risk of interactions:
● Viagra: The active ingredient sildenafil dilates the blood vessels to improve blood flow in the genital area. Poppers do exactly the same thing, but throughout the entire body. Combining both substances can cause a sharp drop in blood pressure. In the worst case, this can lead to cardiac arrest.
● Blood pressure medication: Medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and diuretics reliably lower blood pressure. When combined with poppers, blood pressure can drop so low that circulatory collapse is a risk. Your body is unable to counteract this because the medication is already reducing blood pressure.
● Antidepressants: MAO inhibitors and some SSRI preparations in particular affect the metabolism of neurotransmitters in the brain. When combined with poppers, this can cause unpredictable changes in their effects. Restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and mood swings may occur. The risk of circulatory problems is also higher because the cardiovascular system is affected.
If you take medication regularly, refrain from using poppers or consult your doctor or a counseling center in advance. Please note that we can only provide information and cannot offer comprehensive advice on the side effects of poppers. Your personal history, state of health, and individual tolerance play an important role.
|