what are they?

THE nitrates are close relatives in a family of chemicals derived from nitrous oxide. They are highly volatile flammable liquids. They 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 available which made a popping noise when broken open to release the contents. Nitrates for recreational use now come in little bottles with screw or plug tops. THE best known of the nitrates is Amyl Nitrate, 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 Nitrate, not Amyl Nitrate.

what are the effects??

AMYL and Butyl Nitrates are generally inhaled. The effects of the drug start after about 15 seconds, and last for up to 3 minutes. The nitrates 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 have a temporary loss of control of themselves, during which they may fall over or fall off chairs. There may be hot flushing as the body relaxes, which lasts seconds and a carefree feeling of well-being. As a result, it is then used to intensify sexual experiences, which 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 Nitrate 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.

legal position?

It is not illegal to possess Amyl or Butyl Nitrate?