A Qualitative Study of the Social Contextual Use of Alkyl Nitrites (Poppers) among Targeted Groups

Abstract

This paper uses qualitative methods to examine the social contextual use of alkyl nitrites among targeted groups: young recreational drug users (students), polysubstance users receiving treatment in a methadone program, homosexual men, and homeless people. Nitrites were a popular recreational and social drug, most commonly taken in nightclubs to enhance both music and the effects of other recreational drugs or taken to enhance sexual experience. Its legal status, low cost, and easy availability added to its popularity, particularly among younger people. Nitrites appeared to be commonplace in mainstream night clubs, having previously been confined to night clubs catering to a more homosexual clientele. Despite this fact, nitrites were still associated with gay culture. There was no evidence that nitrite use led directly to use of illicit drugs.