Episode 97: Poppers - Exploring the Toxicology of Alkyl Nitrites

This week on The Tox Lab, we're taking a closer look at poppers, exploring what alkyl nitrites are, why they are used and the fascinating history behind these widely recognised substances.

We discuss what happens when poppers are swallowed rather than inhaled, including a case of severe methaemoglobinaemia and research examining UK deaths involving alkyl nitrite ingestion. We also explore poppers maculopathy, looking at the potential for visual disturbances and retinal damage associated with their use.

Finally, we look at where poppers sit within UK drug legislation and the ongoing questions around their regulation.

Join us as we explore the toxicology of poppers, from acute toxicity and fatalities to visual complications and the challenges of detecting alkyl nitrites in toxicological investigations.

Hope you enjoy!

Links to papers we discussed:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11806928/ 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11765549/  

https://bjo.bmj.com/content/101/11/1530 

Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.

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