A significant number of countries have banned poppers. Others, New Zealand for instance, sell poppers with a prescription. When countries ban poppers, they justify their decision through observation, public opinion, and research. Here are 5 reasons why poppers are banned.
5 Reasons Why Poppers are Banned
Harmful Side Effects
Drugs agencies have pointed out that some of the side effects of poppers are harmful. Some users have stated that the use of poppers can be disorienting and unpleasant. Poppers are categories as vasodilators; this means that they work through expanding the blood vessels. The side effects of using poppers include the following: dizziness, lightheadedness, and a sudden drop in the blood pressure. Other possible side effects of using poppers include headaches, respiratory reactions, and allergic reactions.
Possibility of an Over-dose
Canada has banned the use of poppers citing the possibility of an over-dose. The use of poppers has been reported to cause euphoria and a rush, thereby leading to brain damage. Though rare, there have been cases where the use of poppers has caused sudden death. Some countries have laws which require that a warning be appropriately placed on poppers.
Risk of Cancer
When one uses poppers frequently, over a number of years, and is having sex with gay men without HIV, there is some risk of some cancers. It has been noted that such men can easily acquire types of viruses which can cause a cancer. This phenomenon is more pronounced among people who are aged 50 to 70 years. However, men with HIV and use poppers did not carry the risk of certain types of cancer.
Cancer Research UK says that there are three main medical conditions and these are, anal cancer, non-hodgkin lymphoma, and hodgkin lymphoma. However the institute says that the risk of such conditions is generally low, but present all the same.
Poppers and Eye Damage
A study carried out in southern England identified 12 cases where poppers led to eye damage. The study had observed the poppers users who experienced problems with vision after using a new brand of the product. The study noticed that isopropyl nitrite was responsible for eye problems. The British Journal of Ophthalmology states that the use of poppers can be toxic to the fovea (the part of the eye responsible for sharp central vision). The loss of vision can be permanent or temporary.
Poppers and Heart Problems
The use of poppers can cause an increased heart rate. In addition to that, it can lead to an irregular heart rate. The effect can be worse when one has mixed alcohol with something else, alcohol for instance. The Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health states that poppers can cause a deadly heart rhythm disorder known as sudden sniffing death.
Legislation will of course vary from country to country. Some may allow users or sales such as poppers UK legislation, whereas others may restrict users and/or sales too. Having discussed why poppers are banned, you need to make informed decisions. It is advisable that you have a discussion with the healthcare provider, and you will come to an agreement on if and how they should be used.
