9 hours ago
Can I Still Buy Poppers in the US?
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
By now you're likely aware of the recent fallout between RFK Jr and poppers. The Health and Human Services Secretary claimed an unbacked link between AIDS and poppers which led to several high-profile US manufacturers being shut down. Despite this, there seemingly hasn't been any legislative change towards poppers.
So, is it still possible to get your hands on poppers? The short answer is yes. The slightly longer answer: yes, but things have changed.
Local sex stores that once used to stock poppers may still have residual stock, but panic buying after the news broke has left a lot of stores bare. There's likely delays in stores restocking as they negotiate with new suppliers, but one thing you may notice is the absence of a number of big hitters going forward.
Where Did the Big Brands Go?
Most of the big US brand names are unfortunately gone. Double Scorpio's website is still locked down and inaccessible two months on, while Video Head Cleaner's site and social media channels appear to just flat out have disappeared.
One legacy brand did survive however...sort of.
Rush Poppers, a staple of US nightlife for decades, are still available in some form. While US operations have ceased, Rush lives on via a European manufacturer. The old amyl nitrite poppers formula synonymous with gay clubs of the 70's can still be purchased online, alongside the rest of their products.
Ordering Online: What's Changed?
That brings us nicely to purchasing online. A quick glance online shows ample confusion over the practicalities of ordering poppers online. Given everything that's happened with RFK Jr recently, numerous people have been questioning if poppers can pass through customs without any issues. While there has been some mixed responses to this, some companies have reported no issues with shipping to the US or having poppers rejected by customs enforcement.
With old favourites no longer available, it's worth looking at a couple of bigger brands available from Europe.
Iron Fist Poppers
Inspired by the Berlin club scene, Iron Fist Poppers are unapologetically strong. Hitting hard and fast, they're packaged in their iconic metal bottle that leaves no room for subtlety. These potent poppers are designed for those of you who like loud, sweaty nights out that're rough around the edges. With many favourites off the shelves in the US, Iron Fist is quickly gaining traction as the new go-to choice.
As a further note, Iron Fist have also been adopted as a favourite of those who use XL toys, like those from Twisted Beast.
Amsterdam Poppers
More on the mellow side, Amsterdam poppers are also a favourite on the European market. Known for their smooth, balanced hit, they're perfect for those who prefer a gentler high without losing the buzz. Great for longer sessions, they don't punch quite as hard as the heavy-hitters like Iron Fist, but they've got staying power and a reliable, steady warmth that makes them a solid go-to. Think less "floor-shaking rave," more "late-night grind with no rush to finish."
Ultramyl Poppers
In the last few months, a new type of poppers have entered the scene that US audiences may have missed out on because of everything mentioned above. Ultramyl poppers aren't technically speaking a new formula, more a reimagining of how to present Amyl Nitrite. A higher grade of alcohol is mixed with the same traditional Amyl Nitrite that's been enjoyed for decades, giving the bottle a 'cleaner' feeling, according to fans.
While the RFK Jr. controversy shook the poppers market, it didn't shut it down. The landscape has changed – some brands are gone, local shops may be low on stock, and shipping is increasingly international – but the products haven't disappeared.
If you're in the U.S. and still looking to get your fix, your best bet is to order directly from reputable European suppliers. And with new formulas like Ultramyl and cult favourites like Iron Fist stepping into the spotlight, you might even discover something better than what you had before.
The party's not over. It just has a new postcode.