Citation

Wilson H. Focus 1999; 14(4): 5-6.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Aids Health Project, University of California, San Francisco)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

11366670

Abstract

Nitrite inhalants called "poppers" are receiving renewed attention by researchers regarding the drug's role in the gay community, its contribution to risky sexual behavior, and its ability to fuel the AIDS epidemic. Research shows the effects of poppers cause a euphoria that can reduce inhibitions, increase sexual drive, and intensify the sensations of orgasm. Poppers have been associated with a decrease in condom use. In addition, research has found that popper use suppresses natural killer (NK) cell function, which increases vulnerability to infectious agents, produces sustained alterations in the immune system, and may be a Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) cofactor. The combined data implicate that the use of poppers may well pose as a significant risk factor for seroconversion.

Language: en