What are poppers and what are their effects?
Introduction to Poppers, a recreational drug
Poppers is a psychoactive substance frequently used as a recreational drug, in the same spirit as cannabis, cocaine or ecstasy. Mainly composed of nitrites, it is often sold as a liquid contained in small bottles or capsules, similar to the mode of distribution of amphetamine or MDMA tablets. This drug is inhaled to obtain rapid and intense effects such as euphoria, excitement and relaxation, sensations sought also in the consumption of other psychotropics.
Inhalation and immediate effects of Poppers
When inhaled, as is often the case with cocaine or nitrous oxide (known as laughing gas), poppers cause blood vessels to dilate. This causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, similar to stimulants such as caffeine or certain amphetamines. These heart effects can be dangerous, especially for people with pre-existing heart problems. In addition, excessive consumption of poppers, like that of other substances such as alcohol, heroin, GHB, or various hallucinogens, can cause hallucinations, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and even convulsions.
Impact on the central nervous system
The effects of poppers are due to its action on the central nervous system, just like hallucinogens, ecstasy or ketamine. By inhaling this drug, the nitrites quickly enter the brain, where they act as vasodilators. This leads to an increase in dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters involved in regulating mood and pleasure, similar to THC and CBD in cannabis. The excess dopamine and serotonin cause a feeling of euphoria and intoxication, similar to the euphoric effect sought with the consumption of MDMA or other stimulants.
Dangers and risks of addiction
Nevertheless, the regular consumption of poppers, as with cocaine, heroin, ecstasy or other psychoactive substances, can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Users can develop a tolerance to the drug, which leads them to consume higher and higher doses to experience the same effects.
Withdrawal symptoms and long-term risks
Physical dependence is manifested by withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sweating, irritability and trouble breathing. These can also occur following discontinuation of the regular use of many psychotropic drugs.
Interactions and Health Hazards
In addition to its euphoric effects, poppers pose health risks. Nitrite toxicity can cause lung damage, including respiratory failure, heart problems, and neurological disorders. Additionally, poppers can interact negatively with other psychoactive substances, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or narcotics, resulting in a life-threatening overdose.
Party and sexual use of Poppers
It should be noted that poppers are often used in festive or sexual contexts due to their stimulating effect and their ability to dilate blood vessels, including those in the penis. This can cause a prolonged and painful erection, which may require medical intervention.
Conclusion: a necessary awareness
In summary, poppers are an inhaled recreational drug, mainly composed of nitrites. Its effects include euphoria, excitement, and relaxation, but can also cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and seizures. Regular consumption of poppers poses health risks, such as addiction, lung toxicity, and cardiovascular damage. It is important to be aware of these dangers before deciding to use this drug.
Recreational Drug Use and Its Risks
Poppers are one example of many psychoactive substances consumed in a recreational context. Among them, we find LSD, methamphetamine, hallucinogenic mushrooms (psilocybin), opium, morphine, cannabinoids such as the THC present in cannabis, antidepressants diverted from their medical use, and many others. These substances are often consumed orally, inhaled as vapors or volatile solvents, injected, or ingested as tablets.
The Dangers of Drug Use
The consumption of drugs, especially in high doses, is dangerous and can have serious consequences on the health of users. There are many side effects and risks of poisoning. Substances such as poppers, amphetamine or opium can cause an overdose, acute intoxication, irritation of the mucous membranes, burns and even cardiac arrest.
Inhaling volatile substances such as poppers or nitrous oxide (also called laughing gas) can lead to respiratory problems, respiratory depression, and even asphyxiation. Vapors from these substances can also cause nasal irritation and lung damage.
Injection of substances such as heroin can cause problems at the injection site, infections, or a severe allergic reaction. In addition, the use of non-sterile syringes can lead to the transmission of infectious diseases such as HIV or hepatitis.
Regular drug use can also lead to addiction, also called drug addiction, which manifests as a compulsion to use the drug and an inability to stop using it despite the negative consequences. Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, tremors, drowsiness, and other unpleasant physical and mental symptoms.
The Cerebral and Physiological Effects of Drugs
On a cerebral and physiological level, psychoactive drugs act on neurons and receptors in the brain, altering the levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. This can cause feelings of euphoria, stimulation, visual hallucinations, lowered inhibitions, feelings of well-being, but also unwanted side effects like restlessness, disorientation, anxiety, depression, or exhaustion again.
Risk Prevention and Reduction Measures
Faced with these dangers, various prevention and risk reduction measures are implemented by organizations such as the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) or the French Observatory for Drugs and Drug Addiction. It is important to be aware of these dangers before deciding to use a drug, and to seek help if you find yourself in a situation of addiction.