Alkyl Nitrites ('poppers')

Pharmacology

Amyl nitrite is an antihypertensive (reduces blood pressure) medicine, through its vasodilatory (expanding blood vessels) action, which allows more blood to be delivered to the heart. Alkyl nitrites act as a source of nitric oxide, which relaxes the (involuntary) muscles. This is the main reason why it produces a euphoric effect for some. It is also used to treat heart diseases such as angina and to treat cyanide poisoning.