Amyl Nitrite

Amyl nitrite is a specific alkyl nitrite and one member of the group of inhalants commonly known as 'poppers' (which also includes isopropyl and isobutyl nitrite). It stands out from the others for its medical pedigree: introduced in the 19th century, it was used to treat angina (chest pain) by dilating blood vessels, and has been used as part of an antidote kit for cyanide poisoning. Recreationally it is inhaled for a short rush and muscle relaxation. For the full effects, mechanism, and risk profile of the nitrite 'poppers' class, see the poppers page; this page covers what is specific to amyl nitrite.

Like other alkyl nitrites, amyl nitrite releases nitric oxide, which relaxes the smooth muscle in blood vessel walls, causing rapid vasodilation, a drop in blood pressure, and the characteristic rush and muscle relaxation (see the poppers page for detail). This same vasodilating action is what made it medically useful for angina. As with all nitrites, the chemistry that produces the effect can also oxidize hemoglobin into methemoglobin, which cannot carry oxygen.

Inhaled, amyl nitrite produces a brief (seconds-to-minutes) rush of warmth, lightheadedness, and muscle relaxation, along with facial flushing and a pounding heartbeat — effects essentially the same as other poppers. Common immediate side effects are headache, dizziness, and a short drop in blood pressure that can cause fainting. See the poppers page for the fuller effect profile shared across the nitrite class.

Amyl nitrite shares the risks of the poppers class (see the poppers page). The most serious is methemoglobinemia — the nitrite converts hemoglobin into a form that cannot carry oxygen, which can cause blue-tinged skin, severe breathlessness, collapse, and death; this is especially likely and severe when nitrites are swallowed rather than inhaled, a mistake that has caused near-fatal poisonings. The sudden drop in blood pressure can cause fainting and injury and is acutely dangerous when combined with erectile-dysfunction drugs (such as sildenafil/Viagra), which also lower blood pressure — the combination can cause a catastrophic collapse. Nitrites can cause chemical burns on skin and damage to vision, and people with heart conditions, low blood pressure, glaucoma, or anemia are at higher risk. Because products are sold under cover labels, actual chemical content varies. Anyone who has swallowed a nitrite, or who has blue lips or skin, severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting, needs emergency care immediately — call 911, and Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 can advise (methemoglobinemia has a specific antidote). This page has not yet been medically reviewed.