A beloved queer chemistry professor with a massive social media following is earning praise and sparking important conversations for doing what few others have bothered to do: clearly explain what’s actually inside poppers.
Dr. André K. Isaacs, an organic chemistry professor based in Massachusetts, has gone viral multiple times for his lab-based videos that blend ballroom-level confidence, joyful queerness, and serious science. Whether he’s dancing with students in safety goggles or breaking down complex chemical reactions into digestible lessons, Isaacs has become something of a cult favorite among LGBTQ+ STEM fans.
His latest viral moment, however, might be his most impactful yet.
“It’s Time to Talk About Poppers”
In a recent Instagram video viewed over 2 million times in just 48 hours, Dr. Isaacs opens with a sentence that immediately grabs attention:
“It’s time to talk about poppers.”
The reason, he explains, is harm reduction.
Poppers long used recreationally within queer communities are often consumed without users ever stopping to ask what’s actually inside those tiny bottles. Isaacs wanted to change that, not by shaming anyone, but by giving people clear, factual information so they can make informed decisions.
What Do Poppers Do to the Body?
Dr. Isaacs breaks down the effects of poppers in refreshingly plain language.
When inhaled, poppers cause:
- A brief euphoric rush
- Relaxation of smooth muscles
- A drop in blood pressure
- Increased blood vessel dilation
These effects are why poppers are commonly associated with sexual settings but they also explain why they can be risky when misused or combined with other substances.
The Three Chemicals Inside Most Poppers
According to Isaacs, nearly all poppers contain one of three alkyl nitrites:
- Isoamyl nitrite
- Isobutyl nitrite
- Isopropyl nitrite
While they’re chemically similar, their health risks are not equal.
🚨 Isobutyl Nitrite
Isaacs explains that isobutyl nitrite has raised red flags in scientific studies. In lab experiments where rats and mice were forced to inhale it daily for 100 days, researchers observed a higher incidence of lung cancer.
Because of these findings, scientists consider isobutyl nitrite a potential carcinogen for humans not a guarantee, but a real risk worth understanding.
@drdre4000 Chemistry of poppers
♬ original sound – Andre Isaacs
👁️ Isopropyl Nitrite
Even more concerning for some users, isopropyl nitrite has been linked to vision problems.
One study examined 12 patients who experienced vision loss after using poppers. Among the eight different brands involved, six contained isopropyl nitrite. Notably, some patients had previously used other nitrites without issues only experiencing eye problems after switching to isopropyl-based poppers.
✅ Isoamyl Nitrite
Of the three, isoamyl nitrite appears to be the least risky, based on current research though Isaacs is careful to emphasize that “safer” does not mean “safe.”
Do Labels Tell the Truth?
To his credit, Isaacs didn’t stop at theory.
He tested a sample of poppers to see whether their contents matched what was listed on the labels and found that, in his limited testing, they did. While brand names themselves are largely meaningless, the chemical composition listed on the bottle may actually be reliable.
His advice is simple: know what you’re using.
A Biochemist Adds More Context
One of the most-liked comments on Isaacs’ video came from a biochemist, who expanded on why poppers work the way they do.
Alkyl nitrites are metabolized into nitric oxide (NO) a gas the body naturally uses to regulate blood flow. Nitric oxide activates a protein called Protein Kinase G (PKG), triggering changes in calcium ions inside smooth muscle cells. The result? Relaxed blood vessels and lowered blood pressure.
But and it’s a big but excess nitric oxide and its byproducts can create additional risks, especially when combined with other substances.
@drdre4000 Replying to @red ♬ original sound – Andre Isaacs
A Critical Warning About Viagra
Isaacs is unequivocal on one point: never combine poppers with medications that lower blood pressure, especially Viagra (Sildenafil).
The combination can cause a dangerous, potentially fatal drop in blood pressure a risk that cannot be overstated.
Do Poppers Expire?
Yes and potency matters.
Isaacs explains that alkyl nitrites are chemically unstable. Over time, especially when exposed to heat or light, they degrade into less potent compounds.
Fresh poppers that are stored cold and away from light will be stronger another reason why users should be cautious and informed.
The Legal Gray Area and New Crackdowns
Poppers exist in a strange legal limbo. In the U.S. and elsewhere, they’re typically sold as room deodorizers or nail polish removers, despite their obvious real-world use.
Earlier this year, the FDA began cracking down on manufacturers. Austin-based brand Double Scorpio announced it had halted operations after a search and seizure by federal authorities.
Meanwhile, Arizona lawmakers are debating HB 2191, a bill that would ban poppers entirely, along with nitrous oxide. If passed, Arizona would join Alabama in outlawing their sale.
Knowledge Is Harm Reduction
Dr. Isaacs isn’t telling anyone what to do. He’s doing something far more powerful: giving people the information they were never offered before.
As he puts it, know what’s in the bottle and then make your own decisions.