Alkyl nitrites (Stimulant) amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite
Street Name: Poppers:
Brand names include
TNT, Liquid Gold
What it looks like and how it's taken:
Clear yellow liquid, smells sweet when it's fresh and 'sweaty' when it's not.
Vapour is breathed in through nose or mouth from a small bottle or tube.
Immediate effects:
Almost instant 'head rush' with flushed face and neck. Lasts 2-5 minutes.
Risks:
Short term: Headaches, nausea, bulging eyes. If spilled it can burn the skin and may be fatal if swallowed. People with anaemia, glaucoma and breathing or heart problems are particularly at risk.
Long term: Regular use can lead to tolerance (greater amount needed to produce same effect) and an increase in risks listed above.
Legal status:
Amyl nitrite is a prescription-only medicine.
Possession is not illegal but supply through sex shops and clubs can be an offence under The Medicines Act.
