Is Amyl Nitrite legal in United Kingdom?

Legal status

Amyl nitrite is NOT controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (alkyl nitrites have never been scheduled), and the MHRA confirms no amyl-nitrite product is currently licensed as a medicine in the UK; after the 2018 Court of Appeal ruling that indirectly psychoactive substances are caught, supply of amyl nitrite for human consumption appears to fall under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, and the ACMD has recommended alkyl nitrites be exempted from that Act.

Consequences if caught

Possession of amyl nitrite is lawful and carries no controlled-drug tier. The only exposure is commercial supply-for-consumption under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 (pending the recommended exemption), not a Misuse of Drugs Act penalty.

If prescribed or medical

Distinct from consumer 'poppers' (which use isopropyl/isobutyl nitrite): amyl nitrite is the specific vasodilator and cyanide-antidote compound, but the MHRA states no amyl-nitrite medicinal product is licensed in the UK, so there is no routine pharmacy or prescription supply route.

Documentation

Travellers may carry amyl nitrite for personal use without any controlled-drug licence; it is lawful to possess, with only commercial supply for human consumption regulated.

Drug laws and enforcement change and vary within a country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with United Kingdom’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling; penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.