FDA Reportedly Raids Poppers Manufacturer Amidst Growing Concerns
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reportedly conducted a raid on a manufacturer of poppers, an inhalant drug that has gained increasing popularity in party and clubbing scenes. The drug, often found in convenience stores through a legal loophole, has raised health concerns over the years. This development comes as authorities intensify efforts to regulate substances with potential health risks.
Double Scorpio, an Austin-based poppers manufacturer, announced on its website that it has “stopped all operations following a search and seizure at our offices by the FDA.” The crackdown has sparked discussions about the FDA’s future actions concerning the sale and distribution of poppers.
The raid follows the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the FDA. Kennedy, known for his controversial views on vaccines and drug policies, has previously suggested a link between poppers and immune system disorders, though no scientific evidence supports this claim. The exact reasoning behind the reported raid remains unclear.
Fast Company first reported the news, citing anonymous sources that indicate a broader crackdown on poppers manufacturers may be underway. When asked about the matter, FDA spokesperson Amanda M. Hils stated that the agency does not comment on potential criminal investigations.
Other poppers manufacturers, such as The Popper King, have not reported any contact from the FDA. A representative from the Buffalo-based company declined to comment further.
Health Risks and FDA Warnings
Poppers, also known as alkyl nitrates, produce a short-lived euphoric rush and muscle relaxation when inhaled. They have long been popular among LGBTQ+ communities due to their ability to ease muscle tension. However, the FDA has warned about the potential health risks associated with their use, including headaches, dizziness, low blood oxygen levels, and even death in severe cases.
In 2021, the FDA issued an advisory cautioning consumers against purchasing or using poppers, highlighting an increase in hospitalizations and deaths linked to their use. Despite regulatory efforts, poppers remain widely available in smoke shops, often marketed as air fresheners or leather cleaners to bypass legal restrictions.
The Growing Popularity of Poppers
A 2020 study revealed that 3.3% of American adults had used poppers, with usage rates significantly higher among gay and bisexual men. More recently, poppers have gained traction among heterosexual users, expanding their reach beyond the LGBTQ+ community.
Research by Joseph J. Palamar, a population health expert at NYU Langone Health, indicates a rise in poppers use among club-goers. In a 2024 survey of New York City nightclub attendees, 18% reported using poppers in the past year. Among these, 46% were gay or bisexual men, 28% were lesbian or bisexual women, 10% were heterosexual women, and 6% were heterosexual men.
The Role of Convenience Stores and Misinformation
Poppers are often displayed alongside energy drinks in convenience stores, leading to potential misuse. Some store employees, unfamiliar with the drug, have mistakenly advised customers to ingest the substance, a dangerous action that can result in poisoning. A recent study published in Clinical Toxicology found that 8% of surveyed store employees incorrectly recommended drinking poppers, while 44% were uncertain about their proper use.
With the FDA’s increasing scrutiny, the future of poppers sales in the U.S. remains uncertain. This crackdown could have broader implications for other products marketed through legal loopholes, including certain vaping products like Lost Mary, Breeze Vape, and Raz Vape Flavors, which have also faced regulatory challenges.
As authorities tighten regulations, consumers are urged to stay informed about product safety and potential health risks. Whether this FDA raid signals a more extensive effort to regulate poppers remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a turning point in the ongoing debate over their legal status and accessibility.
