Drugs & Alcohol Facts
Poppers
Also known as: Amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite, isobutyl nitrite, Ram, Thrust, Rock Hard, Kix, TNT, Liquid Gold.
Looks like: Clear or pale yellowish liquid chemical called alkyl nitrite. Sold in bottles with brand names like Ram, Thrust and Rock Hard.
How it is taken: Inhaled.
The effects: An initial ‘head rush’ that lasts a couple of minutes. Causes blood pressure to drop and the heart to beat faster.
Downside: Can leave people feeling sick, faint and weak. Especially if taken while dancing. Some people get a rash around their mouth. Poppers are toxic and can kill you if you swallow them. Taking poppers is a dangerous idea for anyone with chest or heart problems, anaemia or glaucoma. Can burn if spilt on skin.
Class:
The Law: Controlled under the Medicines Act. There have been cases where the Medicines Act was used to fine shops for selling them.
