Rush poppers, commonly referred to simply as “rush,” are legally available for purchase and can be found online and in adult novelty stores. They are typically sold in small bottles, ranging from 10 to 40 mL, that resemble energy shots. While manufacturers often market them as nail polish removers, air fresheners, or cleaning products, their intended use is far different.
Poppers fall under the category of psychoactive inhalants designed for recreational use. Individuals frequently use them for sexual enhancement and to experience a temporary euphoric “rush” effect. The high induced by poppers is short-lived, lasting only seconds to a few minutes. Following this, users may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, and, most commonly, a headache.
How Do Rush Poppers Function?
“Rush poppers” is the slang term for a class of chemicals known as alkyl nitrites. To achieve the desired effect, users typically remove the cap from the small bottle of liquid and inhale the vapor. Some poppers are packaged with a sprayer, allowing users to spray the substance under their tongue for a more rapid head rush. Although amyl nitrite was originally used to treat angina, it’s now rarely prescribed for that purpose. Instead, poppers are widely used as a recreational drug, particularly within the gay community.
Alkyl nitrites were first developed in 1844 to alleviate chest pain associated with angina. The original formulation came in crushable capsules, which users would “pop” between their fingers and inhale quickly, hence the term “poppers.” Amyl nitrite works by relaxing blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart. In addition to blood vessels, it also relaxes smooth involuntary muscles throughout the body, including those in the throat, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and reproductive system (anus and vagina).
What are the Effects of Rush Poppers?
The effects of rush poppers can vary among individuals depending on several factors. Poppers contain nitrites, which are known to relax smooth muscles throughout the body. This muscle relaxation also has a calming effect. Users may experience heightened sensitivity throughout the body due to the increased heart rate and blood flow. Consequently, the substance often induces a sensation of warmth accompanied by increased libido. This enhanced sexual experience is a primary reason why people use poppers. Other potential effects include:
- Head rush
- Euphoria
- Relaxation
- Hot flashes
- Nose bleeds
- Rashes
- Reduced inhibitions
- Nausea
- Headache
What Makes Poppers Unique Among Inhalants?
What Is Rush, and what makes it unique? Rush poppers are a type of inhalant misused by some people. Inhalants encompass gases or vapors inhaled through the nose, mouth, or both. These substances include solvents, aerosol sprays, gases, and nitrites. Many easily accessible products, such as spray paint, glue, markers, and cleaning fluids, can also be used as inhalants. These volatile inhalants can cause severe and permanent harm, and in many cases, lead to death.
According to the Merck Manual, there’s limited evidence of significant risks associated with nitrite inhalants. However, they can be extremely dangerous when combined with other substances, such as erectile dysfunction medications. Ingesting poppers can be fatal. There is also significant evidence documenting severe consequences for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions who use poppers. Furthermore, there are potential harms from additives found in some popper formulations.
Who Uses Rush Poppers?
The recreational use of poppers was prevalent within the club culture of the 1970s disco era and resurfaced during the rave scene of the 1980s and 1990s.
Poppers have historically been popular within the LGBTQ community. The relaxation of smooth muscles induced by poppers can facilitate anal intercourse for some individuals. Additionally, it can heighten sexual excitement and enhance orgasms.
While the use of other “club” drugs, such as ecstasy and ketamine, has declined, amyl nitrite usage has remained relatively stable. Rush poppers have gained popularity among heterosexual individuals and are used recreationally at parties and clubs.
In Conclusion: Understanding What is Rush
Rush poppers are recreational inhalants that provide an intense but brief high. They can be fatal if ingested or cause chemical burns on the skin. While poppers may not be as deadly as other volatile inhalants, they still pose risks to users. Some individuals can experience significant adverse reactions that may become life-threatening. The safest course of action is to avoid using poppers altogether due to the potential negative consequences. The risks associated with using poppers outweigh any short-term high.
Addressing Substance Use Disorder
Individuals who misuse rush poppers often combine them with other substances. Young people who begin experimenting with poppers may eventually misuse alcohol or other drugs. Inhaling rush poppers can also lead individuals to inhale more volatile substances in pursuit of a stronger high, with potentially fatal consequences. Recognizing these complex issues, resources are available to assist individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Seeking professional help can provide lasting relief from dependency and promote a healthier lifestyle.
