Poppers, often marketed as nail polish removers or cleaning products, are actually inhaled for recreational use and sexual enhancement. These products contain nitrites, chemical substances that pose serious health risks if not prescribed by a healthcare provider. Let’s delve into what rush poppers are, their potential dangers, and what actions you should take.
Poppers are typically sold online or in adult novelty stores in small bottles of 10 to 40 mL, making them resemble energy shots. Popular brand names include Jungle Juice, Extreme Formula, HardWare, Quick Silver, Super RUSH, Super RUSH Nail Polish Remover, and Premium Ironhorse, among others.
The FDA strongly advises against purchasing or using nitrite “poppers” due to the significant adverse health effects, including death, that can result from ingestion or inhalation. Despite being sometimes disguised as nail polish removers, these products are misused for recreational purposes or to enhance sexual experiences. The nitrites they contain are harmful when ingested or inhaled without medical supervision.
Recently, there has been an alarming increase in reports of deaths and hospitalizations linked to the ingestion or inhalation of nitrite “poppers.” These cases involve severe headaches, dizziness, increased body temperature, breathing difficulties, extreme drops in blood pressure, blood oxygen issues (methemoglobinemia), and even brain death.
The FDA is actively monitoring adverse event reports related to nitrite “poppers” and will take appropriate steps to protect public health. The agency has also alerted its federal partners about the recent surge in adverse event reports.
Given the serious risks, including death, associated with the use of nitrite “poppers”, consumers should take the following precautions:
- Do not purchase or use nitrite “poppers” for recreational use or sexual enhancement.
- Be aware of the serious risks associated with the use of these products and stop using them immediately. Discard any unused product.
- Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience illness after using these products.
- Consult your healthcare provider if you have recently used these products and have concerns about your health.
If you experience any adverse events (illness or injury) after using nitrite “poppers,” it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. To report a complaint or adverse event (illness or serious allergic reaction), you can visit Industry and Consumer Assistance and Reporting Unlawful Sales of Medical Products on the Internet.
