YPD raises awareness on dangers of nitrite ‘poppers’

Be aware of poppers that are not safe to ingest or inhale

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The Yuma Police Department (YPD) says that healthcare providers are reporting deaths and hospitalizations caused by nitrite products.

Nitrite products either ingested or inhaled have been used for recreational purposes and sexual experience enhancement causing deaths and hospitalizations says YPD.

YPD says these are usually called "poppers' and contain chemical substances like prescription medication, amyl nitrite, which is prescribed for the relief of chest pain.

These poppers are not FDA-approved for safe use and aren't safe to ingest or inhale.

It can jeopardize your health, with chemicals that can be caustic and damage the skin says YPD.

And can damage other tissues they come in contact with, cause difficulty breathing, extreme drops in blood pressure, decreases in blood oxygen levels, seizures, heart arrhythmia, coma, and death, mentions YPD.

The poppers are usually packaged in small bottles that look like energy-shot products that are sold online, in adult novelty stores, etc.

They can also be shown in stores as air fresheners, liquid incense, deodorizers, leather cleaners, cosmetics solvents, and nail polish removers.

YPD advises parents to discuss the hazards of ingesting nitrite products with their children.

If you have information about these incidents or products, call YPD at (928) 783-4421 or 78-Crime at (928) 782-7463 to remain anonymous.