New and Classic Popper Formulations Compared

The Origins of Poppers: Amyl Nitrite 

Amyl nitrite had been used medicinally to treat angina from 1867 and recreational use of the chemical didn’t begin until the 1960s and 70s. Here, amyl nitrite was used for the first time for its sharp, euphoric hit. Amyl Nitrite is thus known as the founding father, or the ‘Grandfather’ of poppers, and in this case, the nitrite family tree.  

The Restriction on Amyl & The Birth of Isobutyl Nitrite 

However, soon the authorities latched onto its popularity and banned the non-prescription selling of amyl nitrite. Out of this isobutyl nitrite was birthed: a popper that hit harder and faster than its predecessors, popularised especially by the brand ‘Rush’. Catalysed by the disco boom tearing up the US East Coast in the 1970s and 80s, isobutyl nitrite was becoming a staple not only in the LGBT community but clubs and raves throughout North America and Europe.  

The EU Ban on Isobutyl & the Rise of Isopropyl Nitrite 

In 2007, the EU and other worldwide governing bodies banned isobutyl nitrite due to its causing of dizziness and headaches when overused. As a result, isopropyl nitrite acted as a replacement, becoming the ‘new kid on the block’. Isopropyl nitrite is the most aggressive of the poppers formulas, boasting a powerful, intense hit that is commonly used by experience users but not necessarily recommended for new ones. Despite it replacing a chemical thought to be dangerous, isopropyl nitrite itself does have some unfortunate side effects if overused: the infamous ‘yellow spot’, medicinally known as maculopathy, is sometimes present on people who’ve recently used it. Brands such as Liquid Gold and Jungle Juice commonly use isopropyl nitrite based formulas.  

The Modern Renaissance of Amyl Nitrite 

Since the 2010s and continuing into present day, there has been a resurgence of the classic amyl nitrite formula. People have gone back to the long-lasting, slow burn of amyl nitrite rather than the sharp punch of isobutyl and isopropyl nitrite. These newer formulas also feature a more jagged, rough come down, which might point towards amyl nitrite being more suitable for new users in and among the LGBT community.  

Final Thoughts 

What poppers or aromas are best for you often depends on your experience and where you’re at in your poppers journey. More experienced users might favour the industrial spike of isopropyl nitrite, and new users or those of you who just prefer a more enduring, relaxing hit may prefer the classic but newly reformed amyl nitrite. You can find more information on what are the best poppers in another one of our blogs.  

Disclaimer 

Our poppers are aromas or room odourisers only and are not for direct inhalation! This product is sometimes used as a leather cleaner also and in such cases should be used for the treatment of leather products only and end use is as leather cleaner only, not for direct inhalation!   

All our poppers style aromas are UK legal Alkyl Nitrites sold in the correct child-proof and tamper-evident bottles. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES.