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Jul 234 min read

Safety Tips and Best Practices for Using Poppers

by Liliana Pinheiro Nogueira

For those just starting out with poppers, it’s important to understand how to use them properly. To clarify the use of poppers, we felt it was necessary to discuss this matter. Whether you prefer Amsterdam Gold or Rush, handling poppers with care is crucial to avoid harm.


IS IT SAFE TO USE POPPERS?

Compared to other medications, poppers (Amyl Nitrite) pose a lower threat to users. However, like any psychoactive drug, even those that are technically legal, there are risks associated with their use. Amyl nitrite is highly toxic and should never be touched, ingested, or consumed in any way. While it has a limited potential for addiction and dependency, it can cause various unpleasant side effects, including chemical burns on the skin and damage to the eyes.


Poppers can also lead to serious side effects if used in conjunction with certain medications. For example, if you are taking a blood pressure prescription (such as Levitra, Cialis, or Viagra) or a vasodilator, you should avoid using poppers. Both poppers and these medications act as vasodilators, relaxing and expanding blood vessels. Using them together increases the risk of severe health issues, such as stroke, heart attack, or even fatal cardiac arrest.


IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS WHEN USING POPPERS

Although it is recommended to avoid poppers altogether, some may be curious to try them or continue using them despite the risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to know how to use poppers safely to avoid bad experiences or overdose.


While inhaling poppers is generally considered safe, inhaling them directly from the bottle is not advisable. Ensure that the room is spacious (at least 5m x 5m) and well-ventilated. Avoid placing poppers on a rag or piece of cloth and then putting it over your nose and mouth, as this can be harmful.


Poppers Aromas can be used to mask unpleasant odors and restore a room’s habitability like any other room scent. However, if anyone in the room begins to feel light-headed or develops a headache, switch out the cap immediately.


Before using poppers, ensure you are not taking any prescription medications or other recreational substances. For instance, ADHD medications can cause an irregular heartbeat when combined with poppers, while erectile dysfunction medications used with poppers can dangerously lower blood pressure, potentially causing fainting or even death.


Pregnant women and individuals with heart problems, glaucoma, high blood pressure, anemia, or other medical conditions should avoid using poppers. They can worsen heart issues or lead to serious complications such as fainting, stroke, or heart attack.


DON’T SWALLOW

Swallowing poppers poses a serious health risk, as they are highly poisonous. Ingesting poppers can lead to more than just nausea, a sore throat, and vomiting; it can also impair your body’s ability to absorb oxygen, which can be fatal. Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know accidentally breathes in or swallows poppers.


Poppers can also cause burns and rashes, so keep them away from your skin. If you come into contact with liquid poppers, rinse the affected area with cold water promptly. Some people use the filtered end of a cigarette to inhale poppers. However, lighting the cigarette afterward is dangerous, as poppers are highly combustible and can cause severe burns. Keep poppers away from lighters, candles, and any other sources of ignition.


CONSIDER YOUR LOCATION AND COMPANY

Ensure you are with trustworthy people who have your best interests at heart. In case things don’t go as planned, it’s wise to be among people you trust to look out for you. If you are at a large gathering, plan a way to reunite if you get separated.


Make sure you and your partner can easily give or withdraw consent whenever necessary before becoming intimate. Poppers are often used in nightclub or festival settings, where you may be active and moving around a lot. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of water and take breaks to rest.


If you experience a headache, drinking water can help deliver oxygen to your brain, restore normal blood pressure, and alleviate side effects. Poppers are inhalants that provide a euphoric high and a calming effect on the body. Despite their long history of recreational use and legal status in many countries, they still pose health risks. Therefore, ensure you have a plan to mitigate these risks and ensure your safety before using poppers.

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