Volatile Nitrites

Nitrites, such as amyl, butyl, or isobutyl nitrite (poppers, sold with street names such as "Locker Room" and "Rush"), may be inhaled to enhance sexual pleasure. Nitrite-containing liquids may also be ingested with resultant symptoms.

There is little evidence of significant risk, although nitrites and nitrates cause vasodilation, with brief hypotension, dizziness, and flushing, followed by reflex tachycardia (see table Symptoms and Treatment of Specific Poisons). Nitrites may cause methemoglobinemia. However, they are dangerous when combined with phosphodiesterase-inhibiting drugs used for erectile enhancement; the combination can lead to severe hypotension and death.