Popping the drug that heightens the instincts of MSM

Using drugs for recreational use is widely considered as a stigma in the Philippines. However, this specific drug pops that concept for the gay community.

Rampant use of chemical poppers are reported in the country, especially in urban communities in Manila where these substances are commonly marketed.

Chemical poppers or Alkyl Nitrite are substances that are used to instantly reach euphoria or the ‘feeling good’ state. It has been used since the 1960s and was first discovered by French Chemist Antoine Balard in 1844. According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, these usually come in the form of a liquid contained in small bottles that have flashy cover names like “liquid gold.” It is not drunk when used since the chemical itself is highly poisonous. Rather, the fumes of chemical poppers are inhaled. When used, it relaxes the muscles, heats the body, and produces euphoria. Along with these, however, are side effects that can cause harm to users. In order to work, alkyl nitrite enlarges red blood cells which can lead to extreme drops in blood pressure and high heart rates. In addition, consuming poppers will lead to dizziness, headaches, and increased sex drives. While there are no specific laws that prohibit the use of chemical poppers, these substances are not regulated by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration. Hence, medical experts do not advise using such substances, especially to people below the years of 18. Due to the euphoric effects of poppers and its other benefits, it is commonly used as a sexual experience enhancer for the gay community in the Philippines. According to Yu and Lasco in 2023, many men who have sex with men (MSM) use chemical poppers because of its multifunctionality, utilizing them for self-pleasure and boosting confidence while doing sexual activities. Moreover, MSM also prefers using alkyl nitrite for poppers instead of other drugs such as shabu, marijuana, and viagra because of its ‘more manageable’ side effects. However, behind the use of poppers lies a much bigger problem.

MSM are the leading group in terms of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the MSM community is 26 times more affected by HIV than the general population.

This is due to the way they have sexual intercourse with each other being the most prominent way of how HIV is transmitted, especially if it is unprotected. Thus, when a pair uses chemical poppers and their senses go blank, their unconscious actions may lead to consequences for a lifetime.

Even if the use of chemical poppers are ‘accepted’ by most gay communities in the Philippines, the harmful effects associated with it is a factor that should be weighed. And while the use of drugs for recreational use is a stigma in the country, the case of amyl nitrite is a special instance for the society.