Search

Introduction: Women who use drugs, particularly those using anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), encounter heightened social risks influenced by the legal status of AAS, varying regionally. In jurisdictions where AAS are legal, medical guidance and prescription are common, while in illegal regions, there are challenges associated with acquisition and safer usage. Therefore, we aimed to explore the experiences of women who use AAS in Australia, where these substances are criminalised, with a focus on the challenges they encounter in acquiring and using these drugs., Methods: We focused on data from six women in a broader study interviewing 15 AAS users. The data were subjected to iterative inductive analysis, resulting in two theme-categories., Results: Women who use AAS face distinct challenges in accessing reliable suppliers, with men seemingly having 'easier' access. Women experience this disparity as increasing their vulnerability to unsafe products, further compounded by their lack of knowledge regarding these substances. Moreover, mislabelling and counterfeiting of female-specific AAS substances is described to further compound these risks, reflecting the participants' expressed need for enhanced intervention and quality control in the AAS market., Discussion and Conclusions: Ensuring product reliability, transparency and accountability are perceived as essential for the health and safety of women who use AAS. To address these issues, interventions should provide women with comprehensive drug checking services tailored to their health needs. 'Steroid literacy' must be an integral component, equipping women with knowledge to make informed decisions in the gendered AAS market., (© 2024 The Author(s). Drug and Alcohol Review published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.)

Aims: In the current paper, we aim to explore the effect of both current and former long-term anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use on regulation of systemic inflammatory markers and mediators of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling and their association with hormones and echocardiographic myocardial pathology in weightlifters., Methods and Results: In a cross-sectional study, 93 weightlifting AAS users, of whom 62 were current and 31 were past users, with at least 1-year cumulative AAS use (mean 11 ± 7 accumulated years of AAS use), were compared with 54 non-using weightlifting controls (WLCs) using clinical interview, blood pressure measurements, and echocardiography. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interferon (IFN)-γ, growth differentiation factor (GDF)-15, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, sex hormones, and lipids were analysed. It was found that serum levels of IL-8, GDF-15, and MMP-9 were significantly increased in current AAS users compared with former users and WLCs. Matrix metalloproteinase 9, but not IL-8, correlated consistently with sex hormone levels, and sex hormone levels correlated consistently with mean wall thickness, in current users. Moreover, HDL cholesterol was significantly lower in current vs. former AAS users and significantly inversely correlated with MMP-9 in current users. Further, in current users, MMP-9 and IL-8 correlated with markers of myocardial strain, and MMP-9 also correlated with indices of cardiac mass, which was not seen in former users. Mediation analyses suggested that MMP-9 could partly explain hormone-induced alterations in markers of myocardial damage in current users., Conclusion: Long-term AAS is associated with increased levels of markers of inflammation and ECM remodelling, which seems to have a hormone-dependent (MMP-9) and a hormone-independent (IL-8) association with markers of myocardial dysfunction., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: R.A. and L.E.H. have received speaker’s honoraria from Eisai; L.E.H. has received travel grants from ERN EpiCARE; P.M.T. has received consulting fees from Anti-doping Norge; K.H.H. has received a research grant from the Norwegian Research Council; B.H., A.K.B., and I.G. have received a research grant from the South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority. The rest of the authors report no conflict of interest., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are used widely, but in illegal ways mostly by young men as performance-enhancing and image-enhancing drugs (IPED). long-term usage of AAS, usually in conjunction with other illegal substances, can have extremely detrimental impacts on the reproductive system. The primary goal of this study was to examine any possible detrimental effects of AAS on sex hormone levels, a liver and kidney function in individuals who frequent fitness centers in Iraq-Baghdad. In this research, there are 60 participants (20-37 years old); 30 athletes who visited the different gyms in Baghdad/ Iraq and used AAS such as testosterone, Boldenone, Cybontae, Deca Durabellin; and 30 athletes who did not take any synthetics hormones and serve as control. All participants answered the questionnaire form which included their age, the type of used AAS, when they started to take it, and the total usage number per week. The blood (5 ml) was drawn from every participant to separate the serum. The serum was used to measure some hormones (Testosterone, FSH, LH, prolactin and Estrodiol) and liver and kidney function parameters. The results showed a significantly lower level of testosterone and FSH in the AAS-users' bodybuilding group compared to the control group. In comparison with the control group, there was a notable rise in the PRL level in the serum of AA users. However, when comparing the serum levels of LH and Estrodiol in the AAS-user group to those in the control group, no discernible variations were seen. AAS users had a significantly higher level of ALT and lower ALP than controls, although there is no difference in AST levels between the two groups. The creatine level was significantly higher in the AAS-user compared to the control group, but not urea. In conclusion, the effects of AAS and other supplements on sex hormones and kidney, liver function, and vary depending on how long they are used, with the effects of AAS being more pronounced. Therefore, there is a need for culturally sensitive measures to prevent steroid abuse among youth., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Anticholinergic toxicity is a common occurrence in the emergency room, making it crucial for emergency clinicians to have a good understanding of this toxidrome. The neuropsychiatric effects of anticholinergic agents and anabolic steroids (ASs) can manifest as symptoms like anxiety, agitation, dysarthria, confusion, seizures, visual hallucinations, bizarre behavior, delirium, psychosis, and coma. When dealing with a conscious patient who has ingested an anticholinergic substance, a detailed history of ingestion can aid clinicians in making an accurate diagnosis. However, the lack of information about the substances consumed can complicate diagnosis. In cases where the exposure is unknown, clinicians should consider anticholinergic poisoning in patients showing signs of altered mental status and physical examination findings consistent with anticholinergic toxicity. We report four cases presenting a range of symptoms, including neuropsychiatric manifestations, following the ingestion of the same bodybuilding powders with anticholinergic properties. All four patients consumed yellow and white powders at the same time and in the same place. Laboratory analysis revealed that yellow powder and white powder contained ASs and cyproheptadine, respectively., (© 2024 The Author(s). Neuropsychopharmacology Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of The Japanese Society of Neuropsychopharmacology.)

Background: The prevalence of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) use is on the rise among athletes and bodybuilders worldwide. In addition to the well-documented adverse effects on hepatic, renal, and reproductive functions, there is an increasing recognition of psychiatric complications associated with AAS use. This study aimed to investigate psychiatric morbidity among male bodybuilders who are AAS users., Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 25 male bodybuilders using AAS (mean age 31.2 ± 8.9 years) were compared with a control group of 25 healthy male bodybuilders matched in age (31.3 ± 5.5 years). The demographic, hormonal, and biochemical parameters of the participants were recorded. The impact of AAS use on psychiatric morbidity was assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) in both groups., Results: The BDI and BAI scores were significantly higher in male bodybuilders using anabolic-androgenic steroids ( p  < 0.0001). While the control group showed no instances of anxiety, seven individuals in the AAS user group reported mild anxiety. No participants in the control group exhibited depression, whereas seven AAS users displayed depressive symptoms (4 mild, 3 moderate). Correlations were observed between lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and BAI scores, creatinine levels and both BAI and BDI scores, as well as between estradiol levels and BDI., Conclusion: The study concluded that AAS use among male bodybuilders is associated with elevated levels of depression and anxiety. Our findings suggest a potential correlation between anxiety and depression levels and the levels of creatinine, LDH, and estradiol in AAS users.

Background: Systematic doping programs like in the GDR were applied in adolescent competitive athletes to induce supramaximal athletic performance. The substances had adverse somatic and psychological effects. The psychological development of the young athletes was impaired and they suffered in adulthood from long-term effects and secondary diseases even years after the doping period., Method: The study compared three groups: competitive athletes with doping (I), competitive athletes without doping (II) and persons with no sports activities (III). Somatic and psychological diseases were analyzed to identify the adverse effects of doping in the most vulnerable phase of development in adolescence. Participants were asked to supply a patient history and completed a questionnaire with standardized psychological tests., Results: The doping cohort had a higher rate of somatic diseases, psychological disorders and social and professional difficulties. The differences were gender-specific with males more often having impaired liver function, depression, tumors and difficulties associated with the workplace . The doping group reported more emotional and physical neglect during childhood. They proved to be less optimistic but more pessimistic, to perceive less social support and to be more depressive. The study identified less extraversion and more neuroticism. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurred in a small number of participants in the doping group. Doping is associated with psychiatric variables. Predictors were the subscale identifying feelings of the Toronto alexithymia scale 20 (TAS-20), the sense of coherence and the Beck depression inventory 2 (BDI-II) and the Beck depression inventory (BDI)., Conclusion: Physical and psychosocial effects imply correlation with the application of doping substances but might not only be due to the side effects of these substances but also caused by the system, which exerts great psychological pressure and stress during adolescence, a highly vulnerable phase., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: The use of androgenic anabolic steroids (AASs) among recreational athletes is steadily increasing. However, knowledge regarding the potentially harmful effects of AAS primarily originates from case reports and small observational studies. This large-scale study aims to investigate the impact of AAS use on vascular plaque formation, preclinical coronary disease, cardiac function, circulating cardiovascular risk markers, quality of life (QoL) and mental health in a broad population of illicit AAS users., Methods and Analyses: A nationwide cross-sectional cohort study including a diverse population of men and women aged ≥18 years, with current or previous illicit AAS use for at least 3 months. Conducted at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, the study comprises two parts. In part A (the pilot study), 120 recreational athletes with an AAS history will be compared with a sex-matched and age-matched control population of 60 recreational athletes with no previous AAS use. Cardiovascular outcomes include examination of non-calcified coronary plaque volume and calcium score using coronary CT angiography, myocardial structure and function via echocardiography, and assessing carotid and femoral artery plaques using ultrasonography. Retinal microvascular status is evaluated through fundus photography. Cardiovascular risk markers are measured in blood. Mental health outcomes include health-related QoL, interpersonal difficulties, body image concerns, aggression dimensions, anxiety symptoms, depressive severity and cognitive function assessed through validated questionnaires. The findings of our comprehensive study will be used to compose a less intensive investigatory cohort study of cardiovascular and mental health (part B) involving a larger group of recreational athletes with a history of illicit AAS use., Ethics and Dissemination: The study received approval from the Regional Committee on Health Research Ethics for Southern Denmark (S-20210078) and the Danish Data Protection Agency (21/28259). All participants will provide signed informed consent. Research outcomes will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences., Trial Registration Number: NCT05178537., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Importance: Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are disproportionately used by sexual minority men, with the physical and mental health implications of AAS use incompletely understood., Objective: To understand the reasons for use and health care needs of gay, bisexual, and queer cisgender men using AAS., Design, Setting, and Participants: This qualitative study was conducted from November 2021 to May 2023 using self-administered questionnaires and semistructured interviews that were transcribed and coded using reflexive thematic analysis. Participants were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling from lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer clinical centers in New York, New York, as well as through online platforms. All patients self-identified as cisgender and gay, bisexual, or queer., Exposures: History of nonprescribed AAS use for a minimum of 8 consecutive weeks was required., Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcomes were reasons for and health implications of AAS use and interactions with health care practitioners, as determined through interviews. Interview transcripts were collected and analyzed., Results: Thematic saturation was reached after interviews with 12 male participants (mean [SD] age, 44 [11] years), with the majority of participants identifying as gay (10 participants [83%]), White non-Hispanic (9 participants [75%]), being in their 30s and 40s (9 participants [75%]), holding a bachelor's degree or higher (11 participants [92%]), and having used steroids for a mean (SD) of 7.5 (7.1) years. One participant (8%) self-identified as Black, and 2 (17%) identified as Hispanic. Seven men (58%) met the criteria for muscle dysmorphia on screening. Nine overarching themes were found, including internal and external motivators for initial use, continued use because of effectiveness or fear of losses, intensive personal research, physical and emotional harms experienced from use, using community-based harm reduction techniques, frustration with interactions with the medical community focused on AAS cessation, and concerns around the illegality of AAS., Conclusions and Relevance: In this qualitative study, AAS use among cisgender gay, bisexual, and queer men was found to be associated with multifactorial motivators, including a likely AAS use disorder and muscle dysmorphia. Despite all participants experiencing harms from use, men seeking medical help found insufficient support with practitioners insistent on AAS cessation and, thus, developed their own harm reduction techniques. Further research is needed to assess the utility of practitioner education efforts, the safety and efficacy of community-developed harm reduction methods, and the impact of AAS decriminalization on health care outcomes for this patient population.

Aims: This study aims to explore the cardiovascular effects of long-term anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use in both current and former weightlifting AAS users and estimate the occurrence of severe reduced myocardial function and the impact of duration and amount of AAS., Methods and Results: In this cross-sectional study, 101 weightlifting AAS users with at least 1 year cumulative AAS use (mean 11 ± 7 accumulated years of AAS use) were compared with 71 non-using weightlifting controls (WLC) using clinical data and echocardiography. Sixty-nine were current, 30 former (>1 year since quitted), and 2 AAS users were not available for this classification. Anabolic-androgenic users had higher left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (106 ± 26 vs. 80 ± 15 g/m2, P < 0.001), worse left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (49 ±7 vs. 59 ± 5%, P < 0.001) and right ventricular global longitudinal strain (-17.3 ± 3.5 vs. -22.8 ± 2.0%, P < 0.001), and higher systolic blood pressure (141 ± 17 vs. 133 ± 11 mmHg, P < 0.001) compared with WLC. In current users, accumulated duration of AAS use was 12 ± 7 years and in former 9 ± 6 years (quitted 6 ± 6 years earlier). Compared with WLC, LVMI and LVEF were pathological in current and former users (P < 0.05) with equal distribution of severely reduced myocardial function (LVEF ≤40%) (11 vs. 10%, not significant (NS)). In current users, estimated lifetime AAS dose correlated with reduced LVEF and LVGLS, P < 0.05, but not with LVMI, P = 0.12. Regression analyses of the total population showed that the strongest determinant of reduced LVEF was not coexisting strength training or hypertension but history of AAS use (β -0.53, P < 0.001)., Conclusion: Long-term AAS users showed severely biventricular cardiomyopathy. The reduced systolic function was also found upon discontinued use., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: None declared., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the optimal treatment for male infertility resulting from Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) abuse., Methods: A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies that compared different protocols for the recovery of spermatogenesis in patients after AAS use were included., Results: 13 studies investigating different protocols to restore spermatogenesis in patients with AAS abuse met the inclusion criteria. The available agents that showed restoration of spermatogenesis include injectable gonadotropins, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors, but their use is still poorly described in the literature., Conclusions: Clinicians need to be aware of the detrimental effects of AAS on spermatogenesis. AAS-associated infertility may be reversible, but sperm production may take over a year to normalize. Both conservative and aggressive treatment can boost spermatogenesis with positive results. Further understanding of male reproductive endocrinology and high-quality data on the field of restoration of spermatogenesis after AAS abuse are warranted., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U.)

In the wake of the Novel Coronavirus arrival, the world witnessed the fragility of healthcare systems and the resilience of healthcare workers who stood on the front lines. SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome, first appeared in China in December 2019. The infection quickly spread across the nation and the world. All countries severely restricted social interaction to stop the virus's transmission, impacting all sporting, social, and recreational activities. Anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) are frequently used illegally to enhance strength and physical attractiveness. However, they could hurt immune system health. Much research hasn't been done yet on the connection between Covid-19 and AASs. Synthetic testosterone analogs known as anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) can have an immune-system-altering effect. Sportspeople and bodybuilders are vulnerable to AAS abuse. Governmental reactions to the coronavirus infection issue over the last year have drawn much attention and discussion regarding public services, the experience and lessons learned from different limitations, and strategies for dealing with potential future pandemics. Using AAS has the potential to cause a variety of adverse reactions, including cardiovascular issues (including high blood pressure, heart disease, and blood clots), liver damage, renal failure, mood swings, aggressiveness, and psychiatric disorders. Individuals already suffering from severe respiratory conditions like COVID-19 may have these risks increased. This review mainly highlights the anabolic androgen steroids use and its unseen effects on coronavirus patients and gymnastics., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are traditionally used for the treatment/control of various diseases; however, they are being used for non-therapeutic and indiscriminate purposes to enhance sports performance and physical appearance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of AAS use among professional CrossFit® competitors., Methods: We conducted an observational cross-sectional survey in which an anonymous questionnaire was applied to professional CrossFit ® athletes., Results: The prevalence of AAS usage was 33.3%. Most users were male (74.2%), aged between 30 and 39 years (51.6%), with completed higher education (83.9%), and had been training for more than 5 years (77.4%); the primary motivation for AAS use was performance enhancement (77.4%). Individuals who were older ( p  < 0.05) and more experienced in competitions ( p  < 0.01) are more likely to use AAS. Testosterone was the most employed AAS (71.0%); CrossFit ® athletes typically used an average of 2 different AAS. The majority of users had notably sought advice from a physician (74.2%), and AAS were acquired from either drugstores (80.6%) or through illicit channels (29.0%). Moreover, 61.3% of AAS users reported experiencing adverse effects., Conclusions: Our results demonstrated a higher prevalence of AAS users among professional competitors in CrossFit ® compared to the general population; older age and greater experience in official competitions were decisive factors for a greater inclination toward AAS use. A significant percentage of athletes seek drugs through illegal channels. Despite the majority of users experiencing adverse effects, athletes report satisfaction with use, believing that the benefits still outweigh the drawbacks.

Background : With the online proliferation of illegal substances, the Internet offers a wide variety of information on the acquisition and intake of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and other performance and image enhancing drugs. This study focuses on investigating the characteristics of the online AAS market in Central Asia., Objectives: The primary objectives of this study were to investigate the accessibility and features of the online market for AAS in Central Asia. To achieve this, we employed a netnographic approach for a systematic exploration of websites advertising and selling AAS. The study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of several key aspects, including the variety of AAS products offered, the quality of health advice provided the level of product availability, the procedures involved in making purchases, and the pricing structures within this market., Results: Twenty-one websites supplying AAS in Central Asia met our inclusion criteria. Using content analysis, data were gathered on AAS offerings, quality of health advice provided, availability, purchase process, and prices. Data were synthesized using descriptive statistics. Results indicate that AAS are easily accessible for purchase without valid medical prescription in the Central Asia online market. Most websites advertised the aesthetic and ergogenic benefits of AAS use without indicating the potential complications and adverse effects., Conclusions: Public health efforts to mitigate AAS use in Central Asia should consider both the online accessibility of AAS and the lack of accompanying information on potential complications as well as adverse effects associated with their use. Efforts must be intensified to curtail the proliferation of AAS and related misleading information on the Central Asian online market.

Context: No information exists on the long-lasting effects of supraphysiological anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) usage on the myocellular properties of human skeletal muscle in previous AAS users., Objective: We hypothesized that former AAS users would demonstrate smaller myonuclei domains (ie, higher myonuclei density) than matched controls., Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study in men aged 18-50 years engaged in recreational strength training. Muscle biopsies were obtained from the m. vastus lateralis. Immunofluorescence analyses were performed to quantify myonuclei density and myofiber size., Results: Twenty-five males were included: 8 current and 7 previous AAS users and 10 controls. Median (25th-75th percentiles) accumulated duration of AAS use was 174 (101-206) and 140 (24-260) weeks in current and former AAS users, respectively (P = .482). Geometric mean (95% CI) elapsed duration since AAS cessation was 4.0 (1.2; 12.7) years among former AAS users. Type II muscle fibers in former AAS users displayed higher myonuclei density and DNA to cytoplasm ratio than controls, corresponding to smaller myonuclei domains (P = .013). Longer accumulated AAS use (weeks, log2) was associated with smaller myonuclei domains in previous AAS users: beta-coefficient (95% CI) -94 (-169; -18), P = .024. Type I fibers in current AAS users exhibited a higher amount of satellite cells per myofiber (P = .031) than controls., Conclusion: Muscle fibers in former AAS users demonstrated persistently higher myonuclei density and DNA to cytoplasm ratio 4 years after AAS cessation suggestive of enhanced retraining capacity., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Endocrine Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Objective: Symptomatic hypogonadism discourages men from stopping anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Some men illicitly take drugs temporarily stimulating endogenous testosterone following AAS cessation (post-cycle therapy; PCT) to lessen hypogonadal symptoms. We investigated whether prior PCT use was associated with the normalization of reproductive hormones following AAS cessation., Methods: Retrospective analysis of 641 men attending a clinic between 2015-2022 for a single, nonfasting, random blood test <36 months following AAS cessation, with or without PCT. Normalized reproductive hormones (ie, a combination of reference range serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and total testosterone levels) were the surrogate marker of biochemical recovery., Results: Normalization of reproductive hormones was achieved in 48.2% of men. PCT use was associated with faster biochemical recovery (13.0 (IQR8.0-19.0) weeks, PCT; 26.0 (IQR10.5-52) weeks, no-PCT; P < .001). Odds of biochemical recovery during multivariable analysis were: (1) higher with PCT (OR3.80) vs no-PCT (P = .001), in men stopping AAS ≤3 months previously; (2) reduced when 2 (OR0.55), 3 (OR0.46), or 4 (OR0.25) AAS were administered vs 1 drug (P = .009); (3) lower with AAS >6 vs ≤3 months previously (OR0.34, P = .01); (4) higher with last reported AAS >3 months (OR 5.68) vs ≤3 months (P = .001). PCT use was not associated with biochemical recovery in men stopping AAS >3 months previously., Conclusion: Without evidence-based withdrawal protocols, men commonly try avoiding post-AAS hypogonadism with PCT, which is illicit, ill-defined, and not recommended. Only half of men had complete biochemical testicular recovery after stopping AAS. The surprising association of self-reported PCT use with short-term biochemical recovery from AAS-induced hypogonadism warrants further investigation., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Endocrinology.)

Background: Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) mimic the effects of testosterone and may include testosterone itself; they are used for body enhancement within the general population. AAS use has been linked with increased mortality, cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, and infertility. AAS-induced hypogonadism can persist for an uncertain time period despite cessation, during which men may report physical and neuropsychiatric symptoms. In an attempt to mitigate these symptoms and expedite testicular recovery, many men self-administer post-cycle-therapy (PCT), typically involving human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), which are known to potently stimulate testicular function. However, this practice has no objective evidence of effectiveness to lessen the severity or duration of hypogonadal symptoms., Methods: An anonymous survey of four-hundred-and-seventy men using AAS explored the symptoms they experienced when ceasing AAS use; the effect of PCT on relieving their symptoms, and their perceived role for health service support., Results: The majority of respondents were white, aged 18-30 years old, and working in skilled manual work. 51.7% (n = 243) reported no issues with AAS use, but 35.3% reported increased aggression. 65.1% (n = 306) of respondents had attempted AAS cessation and 95.1% of these experienced at least one symptom upon AAS cessation. Low mood, tiredness and reduced libido were reported in 72.9%, 58.5% and 57.0% of men stopping AAS use, respectively, with only 4.9% reporting no symptoms. PCT had been used by 56.5% of respondents with AAS cessation and mitigated cravings to restart AAS use, withdrawal symptoms and suicidal thoughts by 60%, 60% and 50%, respectively. The effect of stopping AAS on body composition and recovery of testosterone or fertility was a concern in 60.5% and 52.4%, respectively. Most respondents felt PCT should be prescribed under medical supervision in the community., Conclusions: Our survey suggests that the majority of men stopping AAS use are using some form of PCT. Some self-reported symptoms of AAS-induced hypogonadism such as cravings to restart AAS use reduce by 60% and suicidal thoughts reduce by 50%. These individuals are concerned about the negative effect of AAS use and cessation. This study provides crucial information for planning future research to evaluate the effects of PCT on symptoms when men stop AAS use., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate healthcare providers' awareness and experience with anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use among gym users in Jordan and their role in mitigating AAS misuse., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2022 and Feb 2023. During the study period, 158 physicians involved in prescribing AAS or treating adverse effects associated with these agents were invited to participate. A questionnaire was created and uploaded on Google Forms and distributed through social media platforms to reach physicians from different medical subspecialties., Results: Of the 158 physicians surveyed, 30.4% were general practitioners, and 63.3% reported having formal education about the risks of bodybuilding with AAS. Among the participants, 48.7% had encountered gym users who were using AAS, with the main reason for referral being the management of side effects associated with AAS use. The median knowledge score regarding AAS and their complications was 10.0 out of 14 (IQR = 7.0), indicating adequate knowledge about most AAS side effects. Around 46% of the physicians (n = 73, 46.2%) believed that gym users might struggle to disclose AAS because they lack trust in them. Finally, the most common advice to gym users was informing them about the health-associated consequences of AAS use, with 92.2% of physicians providing this advice., Conclusion: Although healthcare professionals in Jordan had adequate knowledge about AAS, they needed more to make them confident in dealing with AAS use. This highlights the necessity for specialized teaching and training programs to enhance their knowledge and skills in providing accurate information to AAS users., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: To explore the relationship between body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), anabolic-androgenic steroid use (AAS) use, and mental health outcomes and to identify potential interventions and treatments that may help mitigate these detrimental effects., Data Sources: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO were searched from 1992 to 2022 with no language limits. Search terms included "AAS" AND "mental health outcomes" AND "body dysmorphia" and were expanded in PubMed to include "anabolic steroids induced depression," "anabolic steroids induced depression in athletes," "steroids," "mental health," and "performance-enhancing drugs.", Study Selection: Forty-one articles were identified, and 37 remained after duplicates were removed. After full-text appraisal, 33 articles were included in the final review., Data Extraction: Two reviewers independently screened studies for inclusion criteria, extracted pertinent data, and assessed the quality of evidence., Results: Bodybuilders and fitness athletes may be more susceptible to developing muscle dysmorphia, having disordered eating habits, and using performance-enhancing drugs like AAS. The COVID-19 pandemic increased reliance on social media and online interactions, which was previously associated with disordered eating patterns and negative body image. Being a member of a sexual minority may increase one's risk of developing muscle dysmorphia and other types of BDD, as these individuals may experience additional stressors and difficulties due to stigma and discrimination, which may worsen one's sense of self and body image., Conclusion: The development and evaluation of interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and peer support programs, should be prioritized to deter AAS use in people at risk., P rim Care Companion CNS Disord 2023;25(5):23r03532 ., Author affiliations are listed at the end of this article., (© Copyright 2023 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.)

Objectives: Athletes are increasingly using supra-physiological doses of anabolic androgenic steroids without weighing health side effects. This study aims to conjointly evaluate the effect of supraphysiological doses of anabolic androgenic steroids on global cardiovascular structure and functional capacity., Design: Cross-sectional study., Methods: 92 males enrolled in the study, including 18 sedentary subjects, 26 anabolic androgenic steroid non-user athletes, and 48 anabolic androgenic steroid-user athletes. Two-dimensional echocardiography was done to evaluate the cardiovascular structure and function., Results: Anabolic androgenic steroid-users presented increased cardiac remodeling of the left ventricle and left atrium compared to control groups (p < 0.001). Anabolic androgenic steroid-users showed increased left ventricular mass/body surface area versus control groups (p < 0.001), with 28 steroid-users (58.3 %) having cardiac remodeling, which is more than control groups (p < 0.001). Anabolic androgenic steroid-users presented lower diastolic function (E and E/A) compared to non-users (p = 0.003 and <0.001, respectively). Ejection fraction was decreased among anabolic androgenic steroid-users versus the sedentary group only (p = 0.020), while anabolic androgenic steroid-users presented reduced global longitudinal strain of 15.43 % compared to both control groups (p < 0.001). Moreover, anabolic androgenic steroid-users experienced more tricuspid valve regurgitation (p = 0.001)., Conclusions: Anabolic androgenic steroid consumption is associated with global cardiac remodeling with increased dimensions of the left ventricle, and atrium. Anabolic androgenic steroid-users present left ventricular hypertrophy with reduced subclinical systolic function. Moreover, anabolic androgenic steroid consumption is correlated with valve regurgitation and dilation of the sino-tubular junction., Competing Interests: Declaration of interest statement The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Over the years, the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) has become widespread among athletes and bodybuilders. The prevalence of their use has been estimated at around 20 to 50% globally. Unfortunately, many athletes do not have the proper knowledge about the effects of these banned substances Thus, this study aims to qualitatively assess Jordanian gym users' AAS intentions, perceptions, and safety., Methods: Twenty male Jordanian anabolic steroid users were interviewed using in-depth interviews as part of a qualitative study evaluating the motivations, perceptions, and safety of AAS among gym users., Results: The findings of this study indicate that the desire to compete in bodybuilding contests was the primary motivation for participants to use AAS. The study participants mentioned using a combination of oral and injectable medications. Gym coaches and trainers were also identified as an essential source of information for AAS use. A very limited number of AAS users were getting their information from healthcare providers, and most of them have experienced some of these medications side effects but are still willing to continue the use of AAS to get what they need in terms of their physical appearance or for winning competitions., Conclusion: There is an urgent need for structured awareness campaigns targeting gyms and fitness clubs' members to increase their knowledge about the side effects and health risks associated with the use of AAS. In addition, sports governing bodies should have stricter measures to tackle this problem and discourage athletes from using such products., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Introduction: There are a variety of harms associated with anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), with some AAS associated with an increased risk profile for users. Despite potentially different risk profiles, these harms are seldom discussed with respect to specific compounds although recent ethnographic research has identified a need to do so. Specifically, myth has developed among users with trenbolone reportedly having more dramatic effects on individuals, with reports of aggression, violent behaviour and extreme mood disturbances, and this is reflected in extant literature. This paper aims to report on the narrative surrounding the use of trenbolone among AAS users., Method: As part of a larger qualitative study, a number of AAS users were interviewed regarding their usage practices. A narrative emerged regarding the physical and psychological harms which accompanied their AAS use of which trenbolone played a central role (N = 16)., Results: Of all the AAS, trenbolone was viewed as having the most deleterious consequences for those who used it. Users reported an extreme shift in risk profile for psychosocial harms, particularly increased aggression and violent behaviour, as well as impulsivity regulation issues. AAS-using peers and family members of users reported the readily observable effect of trenbolone., Discussion and Conclusions: Users should be cognisant of the potential for significant harms and health-care providers working with this group may consider more focused screening strategies. Future policy decisions regarding AAS may wish to consider the pivotal role trenbolone plays in adverse outcomes for this unique group of substance users., (© 2023 The Authors. Drug and Alcohol Review published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.)

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (anabolic-androgenic steroids, AAS) are testosterone-derived compounds whose popularity and use are constantly growing. Chronic use of AAS leads to many hormonal and metabolic disorders in the human body, which often lead to permanent health damage. Changes affect the following systems: cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, reproductive, digestive, and nervous. We decided to collect the existing knowledge in the literature and enrich it with the latest research reports in the field of degenerative effects of AAS on the nervous system. The work aimed to increase public awareness of the dangers and consequences of AAS use and improve it with the latest research on the neurodegenerative effects of AAS. We hope that our work will contribute to raising public awareness and reducing the use of AAS.

Background: Supra-physiologic doses of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) lead to multiple cardiovascular complications. The long-term clinical effect of AAS overuse on cardiac structure and function, which persists during off-cycle periods, remains unclear., Methods: A total of 15 sedentary subjects and 79 bodybuilders (26 AAS non-users and 53 AAS-users), matched for age and male gender, were assessed in a cross-sectional design for echocardiography measures. AAS-users were included during an off-cycle phase, abstained from AAS for at least 1 month. 2D standard M-mode and speckle tracking echocardiography were used to measure cardiac dimensions and functions., Results: Inter-ventricular septum and posterior wall thickness were significantly higher among chronic off-cycle AAS-users compared to AAS non-users and sedentary group. Off-cycle AAS-users showed lower E/A ratio of the diastolic function. Left ventricular systolic function was not affected in terms of ejection fraction, but significant subclinical systolic dysfunction, assessed by GLS, was observed for chronic off-cycle AAS-users compared to AAS non-users (GLS = -16.8% vs. -18.5%, respectively; p = 0.001). Diameter of left atrium and right ventricle were significantly enlarged among off-cycle AAS-user bodybuilders (p = 0.002 and 0.040). TAPSE and RV S', and cardiac vasculature of aorta were comparable in all groups., Conclusions: This study demonstrates that during off-cycle phase, AAS-users show long-term impaired GLS, even after considerable AAS abstain, despite normal LVEF. It highlights the importance of following GLS to predict hypertrophy and heart failure events, and not relying on LVEF alone. In addition, the hypertrophic effect of chronic AAS consumption is transitional during AAS washout periods., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) dependence has numerous adverse health consequences, and may be driven in part by body image concerns, primarily muscle dysmorphia. This study aims to further understand and identify potential clinical targets using network analyses of AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia symptoms in males who used AAS and weightlifting controls., Methods: A sample of 153 men who currently or previously used AAS and 88 weight-lifting controls were recruited through social media and relevant online forums, and via posters and flyers distributed in select gyms in Oslo, Norway. Symptoms of AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia were assessed using clinical interviews and standardized questionnaires. Severity of muscle dysmorphia symptoms were compared between the groups using independent samples t-tests. The following symptom networks were computed using Gaussian graphical modeling or mixed graphical modeling: (1) AAS dependence symptoms among men with AAS use (2) muscle dysmorphia symptoms among men with AAS use and weight-lifting controls in two separate networks, which were compared using a network comparison test, and (3) AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia symptoms among men with AAS use., Results: In a network of AAS dependence symptoms, continuing use despite physical and mental side effects, using longer than planned, tolerance, and work/life interference were the most central symptoms. When comparing symptom structures of muscle dysmorphia between those who used AAS and controls, the most central symptoms in each group were exercise dependence and size/symmetry concerns, respectively. Men with AAS use demonstrated elevated muscle dysmorphia symptoms compared to controls, indicating that both the severity and structure of symptoms differ between these groups. In a network including both AAS dependence and muscle dysmorphia symptoms, no significant connections between symptom groups were identified., Conclusions: AAS dependence is complex, with correlated somatic and psychological challenges driving the symptom network, indicating that alleviating physical and mental health concerns during both AAS use and cessation is an important clinical target. Muscle dysmorphia symptoms related to taking action (diet, exercise, and supplement use) appear to cluster together more for those who use AAS than those who do not., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: The effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) are largely illustrated through Androgen Receptor induced gene transcription, yet RNA-Seq has yet to be conducted on human whole blood and skeletal muscle. Investigating the transcriptional signature of AAS in blood may aid AAS detection and in muscle further understanding of AAS induced hypertrophy., Methods: Males aged 20-42 were recruited and sampled once: sedentary controls (C), resistance trained lifters (RT) and resistance trained current AAS users (RT-AS) who ceased exposure ≤ 2 or ≥ 10 weeks prior to sampling. RT-AS were sampled twice as Returning Participants (RP) if AAS usage ceased for ≥ 18 weeks. RNA was extracted from whole blood and trapezius muscle samples. RNA libraries were sequenced twice, for validation purposes, on the DNBSEQ-G400RS with either standard or CoolMPS PE100 reagents following MGI protocols. Genes were considered differentially expressed with FDR < 0.05 and a 1.2- fold change., Results: Cross-comparison of both standard reagent whole blood (N = 55: C = 7, RT = 20, RT-AS ≤ 2 = 14, RT-AS ≥ 10 = 10, RP = 4; N = 46: C = 6, RT = 17, RT-AS ≤ 2 = 12, RT-AS ≥ 10 = 8, RP = 3) sequencing datasets, showed that no genes or gene sets/pathways were differentially expressed between time points for RP or between group comparisons of RT-AS ≤ 2 vs. C, RT, or RT-AS ≥ 10. Cross-comparison of both muscle (N = 51, C = 5, RT = 17, RT-AS ≤ 2 = 15, RT-AS ≥ 10 = 11, RP = 3) sequencing (one standard & one CoolMPS reagent) datasets, showed one gene, CHRDL1, which has atrophying potential, was upregulated in RP visit two. In both muscle sequencing datasets, nine differentially expressed genes, overlapped with RT-AS ≤ 2 vs. RT and RT-AS ≤ 2 vs. C, but were not differentially expressed with RT vs. C, possibly suggesting they are from acute doping alone. No genes seemed to be differentially expressed in muscle after the long-term cessation of AAS, whereas a previous study found long term proteomic changes., Conclusion: A whole blood transcriptional signature of AAS doping was not identified. However, RNA-Seq of muscle has identified numerous differentially expressed genes with known impacts on hypertrophic processes that may further our understanding on AAS induced hypertrophy. Differences in training regimens in participant groupings may have influenced results. Future studies should focus on longitudinal sampling pre, during and post-AAS exposure to better control for confounding variables., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: The masculinizing effects from anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) appear to be different between men and women, leading to calls for more gender-specific information regarding women and AAS use. This study sought to gather perspectives from both men and women on the unique challenges surrounding women's use of AAS, irrespective of their personal use. Secondly, the study interrogated how women's AAS practices differ from those of men specifically., Methods: The data presented in this paper come from a subsample of participants who participated in a larger study investigating women and performance and image enhancing drug (PIED) use in Australia. Participants were included in the current analysis if they were: (i) males or females who competed with or coached female strength athletes using AAS and (ii) female and male strength athletes who used AAS. The final sample comprised 21 participants of which there was a proportion of males (n = 7) and females (n = 7) using AAS., Results: Women's choices in AAS selection were predominantly around oral compounds (e.g. Oxandrolone) as well as other PIEDs (e.g. Clenbuterol). Some women report the use of injectable AAS represents a change in the profile of the typical female user as it reportedly comes alongside drastic physical and psychological changes., Conclusions: The unique challenges facing women who use AAS are largely isolation and stigma, with little evidence-based practice or education being available to them online or through peer-groups. Future work may consider piloting harm reduction strategies that may be co-designed with this group., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Recreational use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is a public health concern world-wide associated with a range of physical and psychological side effects. Still, people who use AAS tend to be reluctant to seek treatment. This study aims to explore use characteristics, treatment-seeking behaviour, side effects and associated health concerns among men with AAS use., Methods: The study includes cross-sectional self-report data from 90 men with a current or previous use of AAS exceeding 12 months, where 41 (45.6%) had sought treatment at least once during their lifetime, and 49 (54.4%) had not. Health service engagement was examined with descriptive statistics on reasons for contacting health services, transparency about AAS use, satisfaction with health services and reasons for not seeking treatment. Furthermore, experienced side effects and health concerns were compared between the treatment seeking and the non-treatment seeking group, using two-sample t-tests and Chi 2 or Fisher exact tests for numerical and categorical variables, respectively., Results: All 90 AAS-using men reported side effects from AAS use. Treatment seekers were significantly younger, experienced more side effects including gynecomastia, excessive sweating, fatigue, depression and anxiety, and expressed more concern for testosterone deficiency. Preventive health check-up was the most common reason for seeking treatment (n = 22, 53.7%), and 38 men (93%) were transparent about AAS use during consultations with health professionals. The main reported reasons for not seeking healthcare services were that the experienced side effects were not considered to be of treatment demanding nature (n = 39, 79.6%) and the belief that healthcare providers had scarce knowledge about AAS use and its health impacts (n = 12, 24.5%)., Conclusions: Reluctance to seek treatment among people who use AAS, despite having associated side effects and health concerns, may contribute to continued health risks. It is important to fill the knowledge gap on how to reach and treat this new patient group, and policy makers and treatment providers need to be educated on how to meet their treatment needs., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Androgen abuse is relatively common amongst young (amateur) bodybuilders. After cessation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis-which has been suppressed by the androgens-needs time to recover. The endogenous testosterone production often recovers within 3 months, however, prolonged or permanent post-androgen abuse hypogonadism (PPAAH) has been described. There is no widely accepted definition nor is its pathogenesis completely elucidated. To date it is a subject of debate whether PPAAH is a separate entity, reflecting irreversible damage to essential components of the HPG axis inflicted by long-term exposure to high doses of androgens. Alternately, it may be the result of longer than expected suppressive effects of androgen depots, undisclosed ongoing androgen abuse or undiagnosed unrelated disorders. Due to the lack of scientific evidence, the management of PPAAH is challenging. By combining clinical experience with evidence from the recent literature, a suggested outline of the management of androgen-abuse-induced hypogonadism are given., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are a complex cluster of synthetic derivatives of testosterone. AAS abuse is considered a major public health issue since it has increased among young/adolescent males. The use of steroids has a prevalence rate of 14% in young athletes and 30-75% in professional athletes or bodybuilders. AASs simulate the testosterone mechanism, binding the intracellular androgen receptor, and dysregulating the normal hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in the same way as exogenous testosterone. Abuse can produce several side effects on organs, such as the genital system. The physio-pathological mechanisms that cause AAS abuse-related, genital system disorders in humans are still not completely known., Evidence Acquisition: This study focuses on the effect of AASs on the male reproductive organs in humans and animals., Evidence Synthesis: A systematic review was performed using SCOPUS, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Sciences database up to 31 December 2021 using the keywords: "anabolic-androgenic steroids," "erectile dysfunction," "spermatogenesis" and "infertility;" (anabolic agents) "erectile dysfunction," "spermatogenesis" and "infertility." The review of the literature identified 66 articles published until 2021. Sixty-two articles were included. The use of AASs induces testicular atrophy and azoospermia known as "anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism." Anabolic steroid induced infertility is characterized by oligo or azoospermia and abnormalities in sperm motility and morphology. Although sperm quality recovers in most cases within 4 months of stopping anabolic steroid abuse, the negative consequences on spermatogenesis can take up to 3 years to disappear. Human studies reported a positive correlation between AAS abuse in athletes and an increase in morphologically abnormal spermatozoa. Animal studies showed the destruction of Leydig cells and testicular atrophy in animals treated with cycles of AASs., Conclusions: The present review of the literature highlights how little is known about the action of AASs on the male genital system. However, although their use is prohibited in many countries, the black market for these substances is still very frequent. The scientific landscape still has a lot to invest in the research of AAS on the male genital system to make young people even more aware of the negative aspects of these substances, contributing to the reduction of these products in an inappropriate way.

Lay Summary: Anabolic steroids (also known as 'steroids') are banned drugs like testosterone, which make muscles bigger in men. These drugs are dangerous because they stop the testes from making natural testosterone and can cause heart attacks. Men stopping steroids have very low testosterone, which makes them feel weak, depressed, suicidal, infertile, and unable to have erections. We surveyed over 100 doctors to find out how they treat men giving up steroids. We report that doctors differ widely in the way they treat these men. Most doctors simply advise men to wait for the natural recovery of testosterone levels to happen. But 20% of doctors give men drugs to boost testosterone and make men feel better. Unfortunately, many patients had not recovered by the time of our survey. In summary, our survey highlights differences and limitations in the treatment of men giving up steroids. The use of steroids is increasing rapidly among young men, so we recommend further work to improve the treatment of men who are motivated to give up steroids.

Introduction: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and other image- and performance-enhancing drugs is a growing public health concern. AAS use is associated with various physical and mental harms, including cardiovascular risks, cognitive deficiencies, and dependence. The aim of this study was to determine whether patterns of AAS use and other variables are associated with the presence of an AAS use disorder (AASUD)., Methods: An online survey was completed by 103 male AAS consumers visiting gyms. The association of different patterns of AAS consumption (cycling vs. continuous forms of AAS use), psychoactive substance use, mental health disorders, and sociodemographic variables with moderate-severe AASUD (fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ≥4 criteria) was investigated. The associations between duration of AAS use and the AAS dose with moderate-severe AASUD were investigated using logistic regression analysis with moderate-severe AASUD as the dependent variable., Results: Moderate-severe AASUD was present in 25 (24.3%) of the participants. AAS consumers meeting criteria for moderate-severe AASUD, compared to those that did not, in the last 12 months reported a longer duration of AAS use (in weeks), a higher average AAS dose (mg/week), and a greater number of AAS side effects. Duration of AAS use and the AAS dose were the only independent predictors, with an increase of 3.4% in the probability of moderate-severe AASUD with every week increase of the duration of AAS use in the last year (p < 0.05) and an increase in moderate-severe AASUD of 0.1% with every 10 mg increase in the average AAS dose per week (p < 0.05), respectively., Conclusion: Our findings show that moderate-severe AASUD is relatively frequent among male AAS consumers and is positively associated with the duration and average dose of AAS use in the last 12 months., (© 2023 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a class of hormones that are widely abused for their muscle-building and strength-increasing properties in high, nontherapeutic, dosages. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview on how these hormones work and what side effects they might elicit. We discuss how AAS are absorbed into the circulation after intramuscular injection or oral ingestion and how they are subsequently transported to the tissues, where they will move into the extravascular compartment and diffuse into their target cells. Inside these cells, AAS can biotransform into different metabolites or bind to their cognate receptor: the androgen receptor. AAS and their metabolites can cause side effects such as acne vulgaris, hypertension, hepatotoxicity, dyslipidemia, testosterone deficiency, erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia, and cardiomyopathy. Where applicable, we mention treatment options and self-medication practices of AAS users to counteract these side effects. Clinicians may use this review as a guide for understanding how AAS use can impact health and to assist in patient education and, in some cases, the management of side effects., Competing Interests: PB is the owner of PeterBond.org The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Bond, Smit and de Ronde.)

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse is a global health-related concern, as most of the related studies showed increasing trends and deleterious effects, mostly on sexual and fertility health. Unfortunately, there are no consensuses about the management pathways due to the lack of specific guidelines. We aimed to confirm the deleterious effects of AAS abuse, monitor the spontaneous recovery, and demonstrate the effects of treatment regimens on recovery. We enrolled 520 patients with a confirmed history of AAS intake within 1 year of presentation and evaluated their symptoms, hormones levels, and semen every 3 months until 12 months. All patients were monitored for spontaneous recovery in the first 3 months; if they showed no recovery, they were randomized to undergo either continued observation or commence medications. The most common presentation (84%) was a combination of sexual symptoms while some patients (18%) were infertile. Most patients (90%) reported low levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and total testosterone. After the 3-month observation, most patients (89%) started treatment, but some (11%) continued observation only. Treated patients showed faster improvement regarding the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) values, hormone levels, testicular size and semen parameters compared to non-treated patients (p < 0.005). Among the 94 patients who presented with infertility (18%), 61 had oligospermia and 33 had azoospermia. All received treatment, but only 14 (15%) achieved successful pregnancy at 12 months while all azoospermic's patients continued to have infertility at the end of the follow-up period. These findings demonstrated the significant negative impact of AAS abuse on sexual health and fertility, and the need for medical treatment to have faster recovery from their adverse effect., (© 2022 The Author. Andrologia published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

The anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are natural compounds that are precursors or derivatives of testosterone and, as a consequence of indiscriminate use, cause irreversible neuronal effects. For this study, 70 brain samples were used from male Wistar rats, separated into 14 groups, divided into: control, sedentary, and exercise groups; in the concentrations: 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg. Two different AAS were used: Testosterone Cypionate (TC) and Nandrolone Decanoate (ND). The encephali followed all the conventional histological procedures, for further analysis of the estimates of neuron bodies of the Locus coeruleus; also being carried out the techniques of the Tunnel Assay and Von Kossa staining. The results obtained show significant values different from the control group: Testosterone Cypionate (TCS): 5 mg (25,00 ± 4,47); 10 mg (23,67 ± 4,45) and 15 mg (21,93 ± 5,65), as well as for Nandrolone Decanoate (ND) in the doses: 5 mg (23,40 ± 3,81); 10 mg (22,80 ± 3,80) and 15 mg (22,80 ± 4,54) being the values of the control group (CGS) 34,27 ± 6,06. For the groups that exercised, the values were: TCT 5 mg 20,87 ± 3,23; TCT 10 mg 21,93 ± 4,91 and TCT 15 mg 21,47 ± 4,36 while, the Nandrolone Decanoate (ND) groups, in the different doses were: NDT 5 mg 21,53 ± 4,34; NDT 10 mg 23,53 ± 1,68 and NDT 15 mg 23,40 ± 2,20, also expressing significant values different from the control group. When comparing the sedentary control group with the animals that exercised, a statistically significant difference was observed being: CGS 34,27 ± 6,06; TCT 5 mg; 20,87 ± 3,23; NDT 5 mg 21,53 ± 4,34; TCT 10 mg 21,93 ± 4,91; NDT 10 mg 23,53 ± 1,68; TCT 15 mg 21,47 ± 4,36 and NDT 15 mg 23,40 ± 2,20. The results of this study, point out that both steroids drastically reduce neuronal density in the Locus coeruleus area inferring that, the possible cause of neuronal death is necrosis, caused by intracellular calcium imbalance., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The use of anabolic steroids affects not only professional athletes but also the general population (bodybuilders, gym clients, and adolescents). In the first case, its use is prohibited and sanctioned by the World Anti-Doping Agency and Olympic committees. For the other users, it is difficult to establish its prevalence since many obtain the products via the internet. The reasons for its use are varied and different forms of use and other types of users have been described. Among the side effects of steroid use, hypogonadism is the most frequent cause for endocrinological consultation. After a general introduction to doping, this review describes the historical background of anabolic-androgenic steroids, their classification, forms of use, physiological effects, adverse effects on different organs and systems, treatment of hypogonadism, as well as detection methods., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychiatric morbidity among men with abuse of anabolic steroids., Methods: The design is a retrospectively matched cohort study. Five hundred and fourty-five males, who tested positive for anabolic steroids in Danish fitness centers during the period January 3, 2006 to March 1, 2018, were matched with 5450 randomly chosen male controls. Data was cross-referenced with seven national registers pertaining to information about education, employment status, and psychiatric comorbidity. Main outcomes and measures were prescription of psychopharmacological treatment., Results: The incidence of treatment with anxiolytics (HR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.62-3.38) and antipsychotics (HR: 2.69, 95% CI: 1.99-3.63) displayed a remarkable increase in the years following doping sanction, compared to the control group. The prevalence of antidepressant use was already markedly elevated several years before doping sanction, but also displayed a higher incidence in the years following sanction (HR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.28-2.13). The associations remained highly significant after controlling for socioeconomic factors., Conclusion: Anabolic steroids use is strongly associated with psychiatric morbidity., (© 2022 The Authors. Depression and Anxiety published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are primarily used to improve physical appearance and increase lean muscle mass. Due to their masculinizing properties, the majority of people using AAS are men; however, AAS use among females may increase with changing body ideals trending towards a more muscular appearance. AAS use among males have been associated with risk-taking behavior, and increased prevalence of personality disorders and psychopathology. As a result of low perceived prevalence and stigma among females who use AAS, the relationship between AAS use and psychopathology in this population is not well-known. AAS using women (n = 16) and weight-lifting controls (WLC) (n = 16) completed questionnaires regarding AAS use, health and training information. Psychopathology was evaluated using the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III (MCMI-III). Group differences on demographic variables and scores on MCMI-III scales were evaluated with Mann-Whitney U tests. The clinical cut-off was then applied to all MCMI-III scales and groups were compared using Fisher's exact test. AAS consumers demonstrated significantly greater psychopathology than WLC on several scales. Externalizing personality disorder scales were elevated among those who use AAS relative to controls, such as borderline (p < 0.001), antisocial (p = 0.007) and sadistic (p = 0.002), and in addition depressive (p = 0.012), negativistic (p = 0.001) and masochistic (p = 0.029) personality disorders scales. Furthermore, all clinical syndromes were elevated among AAS consumers. AAS consumers thus demonstrated multi-pathology, and 56% (n = 9) of the group met the clinical criteria for six or more disorders. Females who use AAS experience in general increased levels of psychopathology compared to WLC. Clinicians should be aware of these traits and the challenges they present in providing care to this population., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) have been widely used by young people to enhance performance and increase muscle mass. The use of AAS can affect the kidneys and lead to a myriad of presentations, ranging from mildly elevated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen to irreversible chronic kidney disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). To the best of our knowledge, the coexistence of interstitial nephritis and the cellular variant of FSGS [Immunoglobulin M (IgM)] secondary to AAS abuse has not been previously reported in the literature. Here, we report the case of a 40-year-old bodybuilder who developed simultaneous interstitial nephritis and the cellular variant of FSGS (IgM) after short-term use of AAS and other dietary supplements., (Copyright © 2022 Copyright: © 2022 Saudi Journal of Kidney Diseases and Transplantation.)

Introduction: For several decades, testosterone and its synthetic derivatives have been used for anabolic and androgenic purposes. Initially restricted to professional bodybuilders, these substances gradually became more popular with recreational weightlifters. Considering its increasing prevalence, the consumption of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) has become a matter of great concern. Although most side effects are mild and reversible, some of them can cause permanent damage or can be potentially life threatening., Objectives: To review and summarize medical literature regarding misuse and abuse of testosterone and other androgens, in order to provide evidence-based information on the main topics related to this subject, such as how to identify and how to deal with these patients, and to elucidate the multiple possible adverse effects secondary to this practice., Methods: Key studies were retrieved from PubMed (1989-2021) with reference searches from relevant articles. Search terms included "hypogonadism", "anabolic androgenic steroids", "androgens", "misuse AND testosterone", "abuse AND testosterone", and "side effects AND testosterone"., Results: There is a significant lack of information in the peer-reviewed literature describing demographic data, implications for different organ systems and the management of current or former AAS users; however, androgen abuse has been already linked to a wide variety of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic, endocrine, neurological, psychiatric and liver disorders. Despite all this, most physicians still feel uncomfortable and hesitate to discuss the issue with patients., Conclusions: The chronic use of high doses of AAS is associated with adverse effects in several organ systems; however, there are still many gaps in our knowledge about the long-term consequences of this practice and how to deal with these patients. Healthcare professionals have a crucial role in combating this public health problem, recognizing and preventing the spread of androgen abuse. Linhares BL, Miranda EP, Cintra AR, et al. Use, Misuse and Abuse of Testosterone and Other Androgens. Sex Med Rev 2022;10:583-595., (Copyright © 2021 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: For several decades, testosterone and its synthetic derivatives have been used for anabolic and androgenic purposes. Initially restricted to professional bodybuilders, these substances gradually became more popular with recreational weightlifters. Considering its increasing prevalence, the consumption of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) has become a matter of great concern. Although most side effects are mild and reversible, some of them can cause permanent damage or can be potentially life threatening., Objectives: To review and summarize medical literature regarding misuse and abuse of testosterone and other androgens, in order to provide evidence-based information on the main topics related to this subject, such as how to identify and how to deal with these patients, and to elucidate the multiple possible adverse effects secondary to this practice., Methods: Key studies were retrieved from PubMed (1989-2021) with reference searches from relevant articles. Search terms included "hypogonadism", "anabolic androgenic steroids", "androgens", "misuse AND testosterone", "abuse AND testosterone", and "side effects AND testosterone"., Results: There is a significant lack of information in the peer-reviewed literature describing demographic data, implications for different organ systems and the management of current or former AAS users; however, androgen abuse has been already linked to a wide variety of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic, endocrine, neurological, psychiatric and liver disorders. Despite all this, most physicians still feel uncomfortable and hesitate to discuss the issue with patients., Conclusions: The chronic use of high doses of AAS is associated with adverse effects in several organ systems; however, there are still many gaps in our knowledge about the long-term consequences of this practice and how to deal with these patients. Healthcare professionals have a crucial role in combating this public health problem, recognizing and preventing the spread of androgen abuse., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2021, International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier.)

Anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) have widespread and growing illicit use as image and performance enhancing drugs (IPED), predominantly in young men. Users trying to stop AAS are prone to distressing withdrawal symptoms which may trigger relapse in use. It is important to develop therapies to support AAS withdrawal. The illicit nature of AAS use has impeded the robust characterisation of its clinical withdrawal syndrome within any single study. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review summarising the available clinical studies describing symptoms associated with non-medically indicated AAS use, and AAS withdrawal. Reported clinical features of AAS withdrawal include headache, fatigue, myalgia, restlessness, insomnia, low mood and libido, anorexia, suicidal ideation, body image dissatisfaction, and steroid cravings; novel therapies for AAS withdrawal would need evaluation against these symptoms., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None., (Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) has been linked to a variety of different cardiovascular (CV) side effects, but still the clinical effects of AAS abuse on CV risk are not clear. The aim of this study was to assess the CV phenotype of a large cohort of men with long-term AAS use compared with strength-trained athletes without AAS use., Methods: Fifty one strength-trained men with ≥3 years of AAS use was compared with twenty one strength-trained competing athletes. We verified substance abuse and non-abuse by blood and urine analyses. The participants underwent comprehensive CV evaluation including laboratory analyses, 12-lead ECG with measurement of QT dispersion, exercise ECG, 24 h ECG with analyses of heart rate variability, signal averaged ECG, basic transthoracic echocardiography, and coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)., Results: Hemoglobin levels and hematocrit were higher among the AAS users compared with non-users (16.8 vs. 15.0 g/dl, and 0.50% vs. 0.44%, respectively, both p < 0.01) and HDL cholesterol significantly lower (0.69 vs. 1.25 mmol/L, p < 0.01). Maximal exercise capacity was 270 and 280 W in the AAS and the non-user group, respectively (p = 0.04). Echocardiography showed thicker intraventricular septum and left ventricular (LV) posterior wall among AAS users (p < 0.01 for both), while LV ejection fraction was lower (50 vs. 54%, p = 0.02). Seven AAS users (17%) had evidence of coronary artery disease on CCTA. There were no differences in ECG measures between the groups., Conclusions: A divergent CV phenotype dominated by increased CV risk, accelerated coronary artery disease, and concentric myocardial hypertrophy was revealed among the AAS users., (© 2022 The Authors. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science In Sports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) are a group of molecules including endogenous testosterone and synthetic derivatives that have both androgenic and anabolic effects. These properties make them therapeutically beneficial in medical conditions such as hypogonadism. However, they are commonly bought illegally and misused for their anabolic, skeletal muscle building, and performance-enhancing effects. Supraphysiologic and long-term use of AASs affects all organs, leading to cardiovascular, neurological, endocrine, gastrointestinal, renal, and hematologic disorders. Hepatotoxicity is one of the major concerns regarding AASs treatment and abuse. Testosterone and its derivatives have been most often shown to induce a specific form of cholestasis, peliosis hepatis, and hepatic benign and malignant tumors. It is currently believed that mechanisms of pathogenesis of these disorders include disturbance of antioxidative factors, upregulation of bile acid synthesis, and induction of hepatocyte hyperplasia. Most toxicity cases are treated with supportive measures and liver function normalizes with discontinuation of AAS. However, some long-term consequences are irreversible. AAS-induced liver injury should be taken in consideration in patients with liver disorders, especially with the increasing unintentional ingestion of supplements containing AAS. In this paper, we review the most current knowledge about AAS-associated adverse effects on the liver, and their clinical presentations, prevalence, and pathophysiological mechanisms., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: There are no conflicts of interest to report., (©The Author(s) 2022. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

Use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is associated with adverse health effects. The factors that predispose to AAS use among athletes are poorly understood, but attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is known to occur among athletes more often than in the general population, is associated with risk behaviors, including substance abuse. We aimed to see if AAS use in male weightlifters was associated with ADHD symptoms, and test the link between ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance. Hundred and forty male weightlifters, 72 AAS users and 68 weightlifting controls (WLC), completed the Achenbach system of empirically based assessment (ASEBA) for ADHD symptoms and underwent cognitive examination. Self-reported ADHD symptom scores were significantly higher among AAS users compared to WLC, and scores in the range indicating clinically important ADHD was significantly more common in the AAS-using group. Age of onset of AAS use correlated inversely with ADHD scale score (r = - 0.35; p = 0.003). ADHD score correlated inversely with cognitive scores for working memory (r = - 0.25, p < 0.001), processing speed (r = - 0.24, p < 0.001), verbal learning and memory (r = - 0.19, p = 0.03), and problem solving (r = - 0.20, p = 0.02). AAS use among weightlifters is associated with ADHD symptoms and corresponding lower cognitive performance. Recognising a relationship between ADHD symptoms and AAS use may guide drug prevention strategies in sports., (© 2022. The Author(s).)