Poppers, often marketed as room deodorizers, leather cleaners, or even nail polish removers, are easily found in various places, especially online and in adult novelty stores. Brands like Jungle Juice, Extreme Formula, and Super Rush are commonly seen. These products, packaged in small bottles resembling energy shots, are unfortunately not as harmless as their innocent-sounding labels suggest. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is actively advising consumers against purchasing or using these nitrite-containing products due to significant health risks.
A collection of various brands of “poppers” in small bottles, illustrating their deceptive marketing as harmless household products while containing dangerous nitrites.
Close-up of a “Jungle Juice” brand popper bottle, highlighting the misleading product name and packaging that conceals its harmful nature.
While you might find poppers for sale online or in adult stores, it’s critical to understand the serious dangers associated with their use. These products are inhaled or, alarmingly, sometimes ingested for recreational purposes or to enhance sexual experiences. However, poppers contain nitrites, powerful chemicals that are not safe for consumption or inhalation unless specifically prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider.
The FDA has reported a worrying increase in adverse health events linked to poppers. These include deaths and hospitalizations due to severe reactions. Users have experienced a range of alarming symptoms such as intense headaches, dizziness, a dangerous spike in body temperature, and severe breathing difficulties. Furthermore, poppers can cause extreme drops in blood pressure and critical blood oxygen level issues, known as methemoglobinemia. In the most tragic cases, popper use has even led to brain death.
The FDA is taking these reports very seriously and is actively monitoring adverse events related to nitrite poppers. They are committed to taking necessary actions to protect public health and are collaborating with federal partners to address this growing concern.
Given these critical health risks, the FDA strongly recommends the following:
- Do not buy or use nitrite poppers for recreational or sexual enhancement purposes. The dangers far outweigh any perceived benefits.
- Recognize the serious and potentially fatal risks associated with poppers and immediately stop using them if you currently do. Dispose of any unused product safely.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any adverse symptoms after using poppers. Time is critical in addressing nitrite poisoning.
- Consult your healthcare provider if you have used poppers recently and have concerns about your health, even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms.
If you wish to report a complaint or adverse event related to poppers, you can visit the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance page. It is vital to report any negative experiences to help the FDA track and address this public health issue effectively. You can also report unlawful sales of medical products online through the FDA’s reporting portal.
Your health and safety are paramount. While poppers may be accessible, understanding the significant risks and the strong warnings from health authorities like the FDA should deter anyone from purchasing or using these dangerous products.
