Inhaling amyl nitrite causes brief intoxication. Effects can include excitability, giddiness, lowering of inhibitions and heightened sensual awareness which is why it is often used during sexual intercourse. Because the effects last less than a minute, this leads to taking more hits.
Amyl nitrite should not be confused with amyl nitrate which is a fuel additive used to improve ignition in diesel engines.
Dangers of amyl nitrite
Constant inhalation of amyl nitrite can lead to slurred speech, lack of coordination, an unsteady gait, inflamed nose, nosebleeds, sores or a rash around the nose and mouth and red, glassy and watery eyes.
Adverse side effects of amyl nitrite
- concentration problems
- confusion
- delirium
- disorientation
- dizziness
- hallucinations
- fatigue
- fright
- pounding headache
- memory problems
- nausea
- panic
- vomiting
These psychological reactions can cause risky or violent behaviour and might even lead to coma and death.
Prolonged use of amyl nitrite can lead to permanent damage to the brain, bones, heart, kidneys and liver. It may also cause permanent hearing loss, as well as chronic tremors and slurred speech.
Continued use can also result in chronic memory loss, emotional instability, mental disturbance and ongoing hallucinations.
Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome (SSDS) can cause death by suffocation after even just one inhalation of amyl nitrite. This is a reaction that can happen to anyone no matter what their level of fitness is or their age or size.
WARNING: Amyl nitrite must never be taken in conjunction with Viagra the drug for erectile dysfunction. The combination can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, resulting in fainting, stroke or heart attack.
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