Gay men may be at increased risk for developing “poppers dermatitis,” according to new research in the Journal of the Drugs and Dermatology.
The study details 13 case reports where individuals experienced adverse skin reactions following the use of recreational drugs known as “poppers.” Poppers are often used for euphoric effects, particularly in social and sexual contexts. Exposure to the chemicals in poppers can cause dermatitis.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises consumers not to purchase or use “poppers” because these products can lead to numerous adverse health effects. Poppers contain nitrites, which are chemical substances that should not be used unless specified or prescribed by a health care professional, the FDA says.
Symptoms of Poppers Dermatitis include:
- Redness of the skin
- Small fluid-like blisters
- Severe itching.
These symptoms occur in areas of the skin that were exposed to the potential irritant or allergen. The condition can increase the risk of developing a concurrent bacterial skin infection.
“Our findings reveal a critical gap in knowledge surrounding the dermatological risks of poppers,” says senior researcher TDD/JDNPPA Editorial Advisory Board Member Adam Friedman, Chair of the Department of Dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, DC, “As these substances gain traction in certain communities, it’s vital for both users and healthcare professionals to be informed about the potential for dermatitis and other adverse effects.”
“Both patients and providers may be unaware of the adverse effects of poppers due to a lack of education as well as societal stigmatization of these drugs as being used by sexually promiscuous gay men,” adds Vincent Pecora, lead author and medical student at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences. “However, understanding the risks is essential for protecting your health.”
