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Poppers: what they are, the real risks and how to stay safe
What poppers (alkyl nitrites) do, the dangerous mix with Viagra and Cialis, vision damage, and what to do if someone swallows them.
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
✓ Medically reviewed by Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Photos are illustrative and don’t show actual patients.
Poppers are small bottles of alkyl nitrite liquid that people inhale for a quick head rush and muscle relaxation. They’re common in gay sex and nightlife, and many people don’t know the real risks.
How they work
Poppers widen blood vessels, causing a brief rush, warmth and lower blood pressure. Effects last a minute or two. Headaches, dizziness and flushing are common.
Never mix with Viagra or Cialis
Combining poppers with erectile dysfunction medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil can drop blood pressure to life-threatening levels, causing fainting, heart attack or stroke. Also avoid poppers if you have heart problems, low blood pressure or glaucoma.
Vision damage
Regular use, particularly of products containing isopropyl nitrite, has been linked to damage at the center of the retina, called poppers maculopathy. Blurred vision or a blind spot after use needs prompt eye care.
Never swallow them
Swallowing poppers is an emergency. It can cause methemoglobinemia, where the blood can’t carry enough oxygen. Call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Poppers can also burn the skin and eyes, and they’re highly flammable.
Other considerations
Poppers can lower inhibitions and make condomless sex more likely, so PrEP and regular STI testing matter. If you can’t enjoy sex without them, that’s worth exploring with an affirming clinician.
A gentle next step
Wellthy Psychiatry offers judgment-free, LGBTQ+ affirming care by telehealth across California. A free 15-minute phone consult is an easy way to see if we’re a good fit.
This article is for general education and isn’t medical advice. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
About the author
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner · UCSF-trained · Founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
Earl provides LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-affirming psychiatric care, blending medication management, therapy and whole-person approaches. His background includes inpatient psychiatry and community mental health at Glenn County Behavioral Health and Equity Health, a federally qualified health center. He sees clients in San Francisco and by telehealth across California.
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