Poppers have long been a staple in underground and LGBTQ+ club scenes, known for their quick, powerful rush that relaxes muscles, elevates heart rate, and induces a sense of euphoria.
Originally used for medicinal purposes to treat cardiac issues due to their blood vessel-dilating properties, poppers transitioned into the party scene in the 1970s and 1980s. Over the last 30 years, their legal status, chemical composition, and cultural reputation have undergone significant changes.
The History of Poppers
Way back before the parties, late nights out and recreational use of poppers started, there was once a time when poppers were used for medicinal purposes. In fact, poppers, or rather, amyl nitrite, was first synthesised in 1844 by a French chemist named Antonie Jerome Balard.
The medicinal benefits of poppers first came about when Sir Thomas Lauder Brunton, a Scottish physician, documented its clinical use to treat angina pectoris in 1867. The conclusion was that the pain and discomfort suffered by individuals with angina could be treated via the administration of amyl nitrite, as this would dilate the coronary arteries and consequently improve the individual’s blood flow to the heart.
In the late 19th century, amyl nitrates were enclosed in glass-mesh “pearls.” Users would often crush these pearls between their fingers and then inhale the vapors for their effects—a process that seems to be the origin of the term “poppers.” Amyl nitrites were also administered through silk that covered the capsules. It was found that both amyl nitrites and butyl nitrites had similar effects on users, but propyl nitrites never gained popularity as a clinical drug.
20th Century – The Poppers Craze
Fast forward to 1964 and the first ever documented case of the recreational use of poppers was discovered. During the early 1970s the poppers ‘craze’ took off amongst the gay male community within bars, nightclubs, and bathhouses. It was packaged and sold pharmaceutically in fragile glass ampoules wrapped in cloth sleeves. When the ampoule was crushed or “popped” in the fingers, it released the amyl nitrite for inhalation, which isn’t something we recommend here at Prowler Poppers.
The 1990s: Club Culture and Underground Sales
In the 1990s, poppers were primarily available in nightclubs, sex shops, and select convenience stores. To bypass regulations, they were often marketed as "room deodorisers" or "leather cleaners." At the time, amyl nitrite was the primary ingredient, but tighter controls in some countries led manufacturers to experiment with other nitrites like isopropyl and butyl nitrite.
This shift resulted in variations in potency and effects, with users noting differences in duration and intensity. Additionally, as certain formulations became restricted, underground markets and online retailers saw increased demand. This, in turn, led to the circulation of counterfeit or impure products, posing additional health risks. The changing legal landscape sparked debates about harm reduction, with advocates calling for clearer labelling and regulation rather than outright bans to ensure safer use.
The 2000s: Mainstream Availability and Health Concerns
By the 2000s, poppers had moved into the mainstream, becoming more accessible thanks to the internet. Brands refined their formulas to maximise effects while staying within legal boundaries. However, growing health concerns—such as eye damage, breathing issues, and potential toxicity—brought increased scrutiny. Some governments banned certain nitrites, forcing manufacturers to continuously adapt.
Unfortunately, this also gave rise to counterfeit or low-quality products containing unknown or harmful chemicals, exacerbating health risks. Calls for stronger consumer protections and quality control measures grew, as medical professionals and public health advocates pushed for more research into the long-term effects of popper use. Greater awareness campaigns emerged regarding the risks of improper usage, yet demand for poppers remained strong. Manufacturers continued innovating to remain compliant with evolving regulations while maintaining product effectiveness.
Today: Beyond Club Culture and Future Considerations
While poppers remain a club culture staple, their use has expanded beyond LGBTQ+ spaces. Athletes and bodybuilders have experimented with them for muscle relaxation, while some individuals claim they enhance creativity and social interactions. Others have explored their potential benefits for stress relief, as their immediate relaxation effects provide temporary relief from tension and anxiety.
Despite ongoing debates surrounding their safety and legality, poppers remain widely available, particularly in Europe and North America. The rise of online markets has fuelled their widespread use, with numerous brands competing to refine formulas and enhance user experience. As regulations and research continue to evolve, the conversation around poppers is likely to shift.
Moving forward, we may see stronger consumer protections, improved quality control, and increased awareness of both risks and benefits. Health organisations and advocacy groups could play a larger role in promoting education on safe use while recognising potential harms. With these developments, the future of poppers may involve a more informed and responsible user base.
