For most OutSFL readers, poppers are a part of life — widely accepted and woven into LGBTQ culture as a way to boost pleasure and relax during sex. But now, with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. installed as Secretary of Health and Human Services, poppers have become a political target.

A recent OutSFL survey found readers overwhelmingly embrace poppers, though they are divided on whether to even classify them as a drug. About 72% of respondents were at least somewhat concerned about the federal government targeting the substance. 

Poppers, a slang term for alkyl nitrates, are chemical inhalants that cause a brief, intense rush by dilating blood vessels and relaxing muscles. Often used to enhance sexual pleasure and relaxation, they are banned for direct human consumption in the U.S. and are typically sold under labels like "VCR head cleaner" or "nail polish remover." 

Almost 83% of respondents said they had tried poppers at some point in their lives, with 17% saying they had not. 

When it comes to how often poppers are used during sex, respondents reported:

• 20% use them "very often"

• 34% use them "occasionally"

• 24% use them "rarely"

• 22% "never" use them during sex

When asked why they use poppers, respondents — who were allowed to select multiple reasons — cited:

• 76% said "enhance sexual experiences"

• 31% to “relax during receptive anal sex”

• 16% for “recreational purposes at parties or clubs”

• 12% “out of curiosity”

Among respondents who have used poppers, the following benefits were checked off — with participants allowed to select multiple options:  

• 64% cited "increased sexual pleasure"

• 52% cited "heightened sensory experience"

• 34% cited "enhanced relaxation"

• 13% said no benefits 

When asked about their concerns regarding poppers — with the option to select multiple concerns — respondents said:

• 59% cited "potential health risks"

• 32% cited "don't have any concerns."

• 19% cited "Dependency or overuse"

• 10% cited  "legal implications"

When asked about the federal government's actions targeting poppers, respondents reported:

• 28% were “not concerned”

• 12% were “somewhat concerned”

• 17% were “moderately concerned”

• 18% were “very concerned” 

• 26% were “extremely concerned”

When asked about how accepted poppers are within the LGBTQ+ community, respondents said:

• 69% believe they are "widely accepted"

• 29% believe they are "somewhat accepted"

• 0% said they are "not accepted"

• 2% said they were "unsure" 

Respondents shared a range of opinions, from opposition to strong defense of poppers. 

• “I just never liked the smell of them. Why do we need a substance to enhance our sexual experiences? For me, being in the moment is more pleasing and memorable.”

• “I have used poppers before, but now I don't. I do consider it a drug, and I am concerned with adverse effects from it. I would support banning it.”

Kennedy, a well-known conspiracy theorist, has repeatedly claimed poppers cause AIDS.

"RFK Jr.'s thinking that poppers cause HIV/AIDS is as nutty as he is," one person wrote.

Another respondent summed it up:

"If poppers were taxed like cigarettes & alcohol—which are medically proven to be harmful to your health—it wouldn’t be an issue. But because some nut RFK thinks they cause AIDS, it’s suddenly popular to outlaw them.” 

However, opinion tends to unite when talking about the Trump administration’s apparent moves against manufacturers of poppers to dry up supply.

"Any government that targets people and their activities without first stating an official/health/education rationale is a danger to our personal freedoms. The Trump administration is transparent in its attacks on minorities and marginalized groups. They find their opening and jump on it with one interest: creating another scapegoat and a way in to making one other group of people a target in their attempts to acquire more power,” one person commented.

OutSFL surveyed 188 readers between March 26 to April 4 via SurveyMonkey.