Anabolic Steroid Users Research Articles

Impacts of Androgen Abuse and Overtraining on Endocrine Profile in Bodybuilders

Abuse of androgens and overtraining expose bodybuilders to multifactorial stress influences related to endocrine activity. Endocrine responses in 23 bodybuilder athletes were investigated after a strength training period, during which they were taking high doses of androgenic-anabolic steroids. Serum concentrations of TSH, T3, and T4 were unchanged significantly. Serum LH and FSH concentrations decreased dramatically (P<0.05). In addition, low mean concentration of serum testosterone was recorded, with more substantial reduction in participants of elder ages. The multiple regression model used in this analysis supported this inference. On the other hand, a positive association was observed between levels of blood lipids (total cholesterol, triglyceride) and the outcome predictor (mean serum testosterone level). The results also suggested a negative correlation between testosterone level and each of age and HDL level. The current study shows that excessive bodybuilding exercise has an impact on the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis in top-level athletes. Also, simultaneous usage of anabolic steroids induces extreme shifts in the hypothalamic-pituitary–gonadal (HPGA) axis, which is reflected as changes in testosterone level, development of the overtraining syndrome, and adverse influences on hormonal control.

Differences in Nervous Autonomic Control in Response to a Single Session of Exercise in Bodybuilders Using Anabolic Androgenic Steroids.

Considering the role of autonomic nerve activity in blood pressure control, this study aimed to investigate the cardiac autonomic nerve responses after an aerobic exercise session in Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) users. Twenty men (AAS, n = 9; control group, n = 11) performed an aerobic exercise session (60 min, 70 to 80% of HRmax). Heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed before and during a 60-min post-exercise recovery period. RMSSD (root mean square successive difference of the RR intervals) and the LF/HF ratio (low frequency/high frequency spectra) were also evaluated. The Student's t-test for independent samples was used to compare differences between initial group characteristics. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare pre- and post-exercise HRV recovery (p < 0.05). AAS had a lower SDNN (standard deviation of the intervals) (40.8 ± 16.8 vs. 71.6 ± 24.7 ms; p = 0.04, d = 1.4) and a higher LF/HF (3.4 ± 2.1 vs. 1.8 ± 0.9%; p = 0.03, d = 0.9) before exercise. AAS and controls had similar RMSSD (14.0 ± 15.8 vs. 18.9 ± 12.1 ms; p = 0.20) and a LF/HF (2.8 ± 1.6 vs. 2.4 ± 1.2 ms; p = 0.41) immediately post-exercise. The between-groups comparison revealed a higher HF/LF at 30 min (4.3 ± 1.4 vs. 2.5 ± 1.3%; p = 0.008, d = 1.3) and 60 min (5.0 ± 2.2 vs. 2.3 ± 0.8%; p = 0.001, d = 1.6) for the AAS group in the recovery time. This study demonstrated impaired parasympathetic activity at rest and immediately after the exercise session as an adverse effect of AAS usage, but similar behavior regarding the restoration of sympathetic activity.

Decreased Native T1 Values and Impaired Myocardial Contractility in Anabolic Steroid Users.

Anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) abuse leads to myocardial toxicity. Human studies are conflicting about the myocardial fibrosis in AAS users. We evaluated cardiac tissue characterization, left ventricle (LV) function, and cardiac structure by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). Twenty strength-trained AAS users (AASU) aged 29±5 yr, 20 strength-trained AAS nonusers (AASNU), and 7 sedentary controls (SC) were enrolled. Native T1 mapping, late-gadolinium enhancement (LGE), extracellular volume (ECV), and myocardial strain were evaluated. AASU showed lower Native T1 values than AASNU (888±162 vs. 1020±179 ms p=0.047). Focal myocardial fibrosis was found in 2 AASU. AASU showed lower LV radial strain (30±8 vs. 38±6%, p<0.01), LV circumferential strain (-17±3 vs. -20±2%, p<0.01), and LV global longitudinal strain (-17±3 vs. -20±3%, p<0.01) than AASNU by CMR. By echocardiography, AASU demonstrated lower 4-chamber longitudinal strain than AASNU (-15±g3 vs. -18±2%, p=0.03). ECV was similar among AASU, AASNU, and SC (28±10 vs. 28±7 vs. 30±7%, p=0.93). AASU had higher LV mass index than AASNU and SC (85±14 vs. 64±8 vs. 58±5 g/m2, respectively, p<0.01). AAS abuse may be linked to decreased myocardial native T1 values, impaired myocardial contractility, and focal fibrosis. These alterations may be associated with maladaptive cardiac hypertrophy in young AAS users.

Serum Insulin-Like Factor 3 Levels Are Reduced in Former Users of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Suggesting Persistent Impaired Leydig Cell Function

Background: Illicit use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) has emerged as a public health concern among men, but the long-term effect on gonadal function is still unresolved. Serum insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) has emerged as a novel and potentially superior marker of Leydig cell function than serum testosterone per se. INSL3 synthesis and secretion exhibit far less daily variation than testosterone. Further, serum INSL3 levels are not related to body composition. The objective of this study was to investigate INSL3 as a marker of Leydig cell function in former AAS users. Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study including men aged 18 - 50 years, involved in recreational strength training and allocated to one of three groups: current (n = 46) or former AAS users (n = 42) or controls (n = 44). Mean age (SD) of all participants were 32 (7) years and the elapsed duration since AAS cessation, geometric mean (95% CI), was 32 (23; 45) months in former AAS users. All procedures were performed during one visit in the morning hours following overnight fasting. We drew blood through a cannula placed in an antecubital vein following 30 minutes of supine rest. Medical records, testicular size, questionaries, and detailed history of strength training and AAS use were obtained in a structured interview. Serum INSL3 and testosterone were measured using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Results: Serum INSL3 was markedly suppressed among current AAS users compared with former AAS users and controls, P < 0.001. Additionally, former AAS users also displayed lower serum INSL3 concentrations than controls, mean (SD), 0.43 (0.31) versus 0.60 (0.22) µg/L, P = 0.006 and the difference remained significant in a multivariate linear regression, (B) (95%CI), -0.17 (-0.28;-0.55) µg/L, P=0.004, adjusted for plasma LH, plasma sexual hormone-binding globulin, age, body fat %, smoking and use of other illicit drugs. Longer accumulated duration of AAS use (log2) was associated with reduced serum INSL3 levels in former AAS users, (B) (95%CI), -0.08 (-0.14;-0.01), P=0.022, suggesting a dose-response relation between AAS use and suppression of serum INSL3. We evaluated the association between INSL3 and total testosterone levels and they were not associated among former users and controls in a multivariate linear regression, P=0.821. We noted recovery of serum inhibin B levels among former AAS users reaching the mean plasma level of controls after elapsed duration since AAS cessation of ≈ 21 months; (B) (95%CI), 2.2 (0.7; 3.7) months, P = 0.006. In contrast, we did not note any recovery of serum INSL3, P = 0.541, or total testosterone, P = 0.861, among former AAS users. Conclusions: Serum INSL3 is decreased years following AAS cessation in former AAS users, independently of plasma testosterone, suggesting persistent impaired Leydig cell function, which should be investigated further.

POS-215 A case of hemolytic uremic syndrome after mitral valve annuloplasty procedure

Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is a known complication after valve replacement with prosthetic valves. Hemolytic anemia can occur also after mitral valve repair operation, but the incidence of hemolysis complications is unknown. In this abstract, we describe a case of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) after mitral valve annuloplasty, which was succesfully treated with prosthetic replacement of the valve. A 44-year-old male presented to cardiologist consultation because of the arrhytmia history 3 months ago. Initial evaluation included disease history: In 2017 the patient experienced episode of ventricular tachycardia, which was treated with infusion of amiodarone and 3 defibrillation shocks. Patient‘s medical history includes history of hypertension for 10 years, type 2 diabetes for 5 years, usage of anabolic steroids 10 years ago (patient was a heavy-lifter) and occasional cigarettes smoking. Physical examination revealed a systolic murmur in the mitral valve auscultation area. In the performed heart ultrasound a mitral valve prolapse and 3rd degree mitral regurgitation was found. It was recommended to perform a mitral valve annuloplasty with coronary artery bypass surgery with bicuspidalization of the tricuspid valve. With the consensus of the patient the following operation was performed. Right after the operation macrohematuria in the urinary bag was noticed. The patient was admitted to intensive care unit following the operation 48 hours after the operation full laboratory evaluation was performed (dynamics of lab tests are presented in the table 1). High creatinine, lactatedehydrogenase, C-reactive protein, lowering haptoglobin, hemoglobin and platelet count was found and hemolytic uremic syndrome was suspected. Ultrasound of the heart was completely norma. The patient was started on continuous venovenous hemofiltration. Because of the unknown cause of the hemolytic uremic syndrome the following laboratory tests were performed: ADAMTS-13 normal, SC5b-9 was elevated 419.6 ng/ml (normal value 200-325 ng/ml), complement system hemolytic activity CH50 test was normal. Because of the suspected thrombotic microangiopathy, kidney biopsy was performed: minimal and non-specific findings were present. On the 6 day after the operation the ultrasound of the heart was repeated and severe mitral valve regurgitation was found. It was decided to perform urgent mitral valve replacement with mechanical valve. After the operation hemolytic uremic syndrome has resolved, creatinine and urea were lowering and hemolysis has stopped. Hemolytic uremic syndrome after mitral valve repair operations in very rare. It is very unlikely, that this condition will resolve spontaneously and very close cooperation between surgeons and nephrologists is recommended to solve such cases. Further studies investigating optimal approaches and defining risk factors for hemolytic uremic syndrome after mitral valve repair operation are required.

Prevalence, mental health and substance use of anabolic steroid users: a population-based study on young individuals.

Aims: The use of anabolic androgen steroids to enhance performance is not a modern phenomenon. However, the majority of today's anabolic androgen steroid users are not competitive athletes, but individuals who want to look leaner and muscular. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of anabolic androgen steroid use among young individuals and assess whether their mental health, lifestyle and substance use differ from non-anabolic androgen steroid users. Methods: A population-based study conducted in secondary schools, mean age was 17.3 years. A total of 10,259 participants (50% young women, 1% reported gender as 'other', 49% young men) answered questions on mental health, anabolic androgen steroid use, substance use and sports participation. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, t-test, χ2 and logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of anabolic androgen steroid use was 1.6%, and 78% of users were young men. Anabolic androgen steroid users had more anger issues, anxiety, depression, and their self-esteem was lower than among non-anabolic androgen steroid users (P<0.05). A larger proportion of anabolic androgen steroid users, 30%, had attempted suicide compared to 10% of non-users (χ2 (1, 9580) = 57.5, P<0.001). Proportionally, anabolic androgen steroid users were more likely to take medicine for mental health problems and misuse substances than non-users. Participation in non-organised sports, increased anger and body image were associated with increased odds of using anabolic androgen steroids. Conclusions: Anabolic androgen steroid use is a public health threat. It had an alarming effect on the life of individuals who report having used anabolic androgen steroids. Authorities, healthcare workers, parents and others working with young people need to be informed of the signs and risks of anabolic androgen steroid use to reduce future negative implications.

Anabolic Steroid Use and Aortic Dissection in Athletes: A Case Series

The use of anabolic steroids in supraphysiologic doses has grown in the last decade as doping drugs in athletes. The high dose of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) causes cardiomyopathy, hypertension, thrombosis, myocardial infarction (MI), weakness of connective tissue, and its sequelae such as tendon injury and aortic dissection. Dissection of the ascending aorta is an uncommon injury that has been recognized with increasing frequency in bodybuilders in recent years. It has been proposed that such cases commonly accompany the weakening of connective tissue and must be actively evaluated in the presence of anabolic steroid usage. We present a case series of isolated ascending aorta dissection in athletes who were bodybuilders. All cases were evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and laboratory exams. These cases also served as a reminder of the risks of ascending aorta dissection with AAS, especially in strength athletes who place high demands on their musculoskeletal structures. The results of the current study suggested that anabolic steroid abuse may be associated with detrimental effects on the myocardium represented as cardiomyopathy or atherosclerotic changes in the coronary artery as MI. These findings also strongly suggest that anabolic steroid treatment predisposes the individual to aortic dissection, especially when the patients are exercised.

Theory of mind in users of anabolic androgenic steroids

RationaleAnabolic androgenic steroids are used to improve physical performance or increase lean muscle mass. About one-third of users develop a dependency syndrome, which is characterized by elevated rates of psychopathology, cognitive impairments, and aggressive and antisocial behaviors. The mechanisms behind these intra- and interpersonal problems are not known.ObjectiveTo examine theory of mind (ToM), i.e., the ability to infer the mental state of others, in users of anabolic androgenic steroids. Reduced ToM may be one factor underlying the interpersonal problems that have been reported with prolonged use of anabolic androgenic steroids.MethodsThe Movie for the Assessment of Social Cognition (MASC) was used to assess ToM. Study participants were male/female weightlifters who used anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS, n = 34/9), who were dependent on anabolic androgenic steroids (AASdep, n = 44/7), and a non-using weightlifting comparison group (WLC, n = 69/16).ResultsAnalyses of variance showed that the AASdep group performed significantly worse than the WLC group, for all MASC measures (total ToM, cognitive ToM, affective ToM, overmentalizing/undermentalizing errors). Sex and sex x group interaction effects were non-significant.ConclusionsMale and female weightlifters who were dependent on anabolic androgenic steroids had impaired ToM. Their reduced social cognition may be one contributing factor to the elevated rates of antisocial behavior reported in this population.

Male Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Users with Personality Disorders Report More Aggressive Feelings, Suicidal Thoughts, and Criminality.

Background and objectives: Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are mainly used for aesthetic and performance-enhancing reasons. Their use is a growing public health problem and concern for society because of their adverse effects. The primary aim of this study was to identify psychiatric and personality disorders and to measure anxiety and depression in AAS users. Materials and Methods: Fifty-six males who actively contacted the Anti-Doping Hot-Line and wished to stop using AAS were included. Structured Clinical Interviews Diagnosis-I and -II were used to diagnose psychiatric and personality disorders. The Brief Scale for Anxiety and Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (subscales from the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale) were used to measure changes in anxiety and depression. Structured Clinical Interviews Diagnosis-I and -II were performed at one time point. Anxiety and depression were measured at inclusion and after six months. Urine samples were collected for an analysis of AAS and drugs of abuse. Results: All participants reported some adverse effects that they associated with AAS use. In total, 56% and 52% of the cohort fulfilled the criteria for Structured Clinical Interviews Diagnosis-I and -II diagnoses, respectively. A significantly increased risk of reporting aggressive feelings/behaviors (Odds Ratio (OR) = 4.9; Confidence Interval (CI) 0.99–25, p = 0.04), suicidal thoughts/attempts (OR = 4.6, CI 95; 0.99–21, p = 0.04) and criminality (OR = 6.5, CI 1–39, p = 0.03) was found among individuals with AAS use fulfilling the criteria for personality disorders compared with those without such AAS use. The Brief Scale for Anxiety score decreased from the median of 15 at inclusion to 10 at the follow-up visit six months later (p = 0.01, n = 19). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that among individuals with AAS use, those with a personality disorder report more aggressive behaviors, suicidal thoughts/suicidal attempts, and criminality than those without a personality disorder.

SAT-365 Anabolic steroid abuse among Egyptian athletes : A survey of 1000 athletes

Anabolic steroid abuse has been increasing all over the world among all age groups among athletics to improve physical appearance and enhance activity. Currently, no available data about the actual percentage of users in the Egyptian population. Purpose of study to identify the prevalence of usage, degree of awareness and potential side effects A face-to-face questionnaire was performed by visiting 7 health clubs and 1000 athletes underwent the questionnaire. Non anabolic steroid users weren’t eligible for questionnaire. Twenty six questions were asked to athletes who accepted to participate in survey. Any athlete with and chronic disease or comorbidity was excluded from questionnaire. Out of 1000 athletes, 480 approved anabolic steroid abuse (48%). 90% of anabolic users where males and only 10 % females. Median duration of usage was 30 months. 100% used testosterone as a single anabolic or in combination with other anabolic. 32% (155/480) used Dianabol, 19% (92/480) used Anadrol, 34% (167/480) uses Trenbolone and 20% (95/480) used Oxanederolone .77% of users bought it from illegal market. While 81% consumed anabolic in form of cycles, 19% approved continuous usage without stop. 92% of users where aware of health risks and 48.5% where using multiple dose vials .86% of users don’t perform routine lab tests and 82% never monitored blood pressure. Regarding side effects, 90% had shrunken testicles that was more prevalent in users consuming combined steroids, 21% headaches, 36.5% acne, 43% mood alterations, 10% reported gynecomastia and 27% with erectile dysfunction. As for renal affection symptoms, 88% had frothy urine, There is a statistically significant negative correlation between the number of anabolic steroids used and age (r= -0.215) the number of anabolics stacked decrease with age.8% renal colics and 4% had swollen feet. Survey showed that side effect and symptoms ( Acne, shrinking testicles, sleep disturbances, headaches, gynecomastia, erectile dysfunctional, renal colics, swollen feet, frothy urine) were more prominent in users for longest duration, meanwhile (mood alteration) was less prominent in long duration usage. View Large Image Figure ViewerDownload Hi-res image Download (PPT) Anabolic steroid abuse is increasing rapidly, 80% don’t seek medical advice or routine checks despite presence of complications. Regardless the fact that over 90% are aware of potential health risks, its still consumed seeking good shape 84%, 54% for strength and only 14% for improving health and fitness.

Studies of athlete biological passport biomarkers and clinical parameters in male and female users of anabolic androgenic steroids and other doping agents.

The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and other performance enhancing substances can change over time, so there is a need to constantly update what substances are used and can be detected. Six women and 30 men anabolic androgenic steroid users were recruited who filled out an anonymous questionnaire about their use of performance enhancing substances during the past year. Sampling took place on a single occasion and included blood and urine collection. Our aim was to identify which doping agents can be detected in men and women self-reporting AAS use. The first choice of substances differed between men (testosterone) and women (oxandrolone). The use of growth hormones was reported among men (10%) and women (50%). Growth hormone releasing factors/secretagogs were reported by about ~ 20% in both genders. Nandrolone was the most frequently detected anabolic androgenic steroid even in those who did not report use in the past year. Of the current male testosterone users, 82% exhibited testosterone/epitestosterone (T/E) ratios of > 4. Men with current testosterone use displayed 4-fold and 6-fold higher median T/E, respectively, when compared with recent and previous testosterone users (P = 0.0001). Dermal testosterone use in women (n = 2) was not associated with a T/E ratio of > 4, but with supra-physiological total serum testosterone concentrations. Changes in gonadotropins and hematological parameters were associated with the time of the last anabolic androgenic steroid intake in men, whereas in women these biomarkers were within the normal range. This highlights gender specific differences and indicates the need for additional biomarkers in female athletes.

Towards A Natural for Life Movement in Sport: Health Implications, Cheating, And Why Anabolic Steroid Users Should Be Banned for Life

It is not unreasonable to state that sport plays a significant part in modern life. Indeed, sport has now positioned itself as a noteworthy cultural framework that, through professional sport and various international sport competitions, is firmly entrenched in global economic, societal, and political systems..

Association between fragmented QRS complexes and left-ventricular dysfunction in anabolic androgenic steroid users

Background: Anabolic androgen steroid (AS) use has adverse effects on left ventricular functions, such as fibrosis development. Fragmented QRS is an important marker of myocardial fibrosis, while speckle-tracking echocardiographyis a method used to show subclinical left ventricle dysfunction. In this study, we examined the the ability of fQRS + to detect left ventricle fibrosis by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) in AS users.Methods: The study included a total of 181 healthy athletes. Athletes were divided into two groups as AS users (n = 89) and non-AS users (n = 92). Then, athletes using AS were divided into two groups as fQRS+ (n = 52) and fQRS− (n = 37). In both groups, the arithmetic mean of three images was used to obtain the left ventricle global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS). The E/SRe ratio was also calculated and analysed.Results: There were significant differences between the AS users and non-AS users in terms of, E/SRe (55.7 ± 17.9 vs 50.3 ± 14.8; p = 0.015), LV-GLS (23.1 ± 1.9 vs 24.0 ± 1.7; p = 0.001), and fQRS (18.5% vs 6%; p = 0.005). When subgroup analysis was performed, both LV-GLS and E/SRivr were found to be poor in the fQRS + group. When multiple linear regression analysis was performed, we determined fQRS as an independent predictor for LV-GLS and E/SRivr ratio.Conclusion: In conclusion, our study demonstrated that fQRS is a parameter that can beused to determine left ventricle subclinical systolic and diastolic dysfunction in AS users. It can be used for cessation of drug use, especially in long-term use.

P4132Decreased myocardial native T1 times and impaired myocardial contractility in young anabolic androgenic steroids users

Abstract Background Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) have been associated with several injuries on the cardiovascular system. AAS abuse may have a direct toxic effect on the myocardium that could lead to cardiac function and structure alterations. Clinical and forensic cases have been reported myocardial fibrosis in AAS users. Myocardial fibrosis increases the risk of heart failure and sudden death. However, recent studies did not show evidence of focal myocardial fibrosis and diffuse myocardial fibrosis in AAS users using T1-mapping techniques. Thus, it remains unclear the association between AAS and cardiac structure alterations. Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate cardiac structure by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with late-gadolinium enhancement (LGE), cardiac T1-mapping and extracellular volume measurements (ECV). Additionally, we also evaluated the cardiac contractility by CMR and echocardiography in young AAS users. Methods Twenty strength-trained AAS users (AASU) age 29±5 yr, 20 age-matched strength-trained AAS nonusers (AASNU), and 10 sedentary controls (SC) were enrolled. Cardiac structure was assessed by LGE, native T1-mapping and ECV. Cardiac contractility was evaluated as cardiac strain measured by CMR (feature tracking imaging technique) and echocardiography (speckle tracking technique). Results Global native T1 times [753 (683–870) vs 916 (815–1239) vs 1205 (825–1242) ms, respectively, p=0.03], and native T1 times at the left ventricle mid-ventricular slice [813 (695–1096) vs 922 (825–1095) vs 1140 (840–1322) ms, respectively, p=0.03] were lower in AASU compared with AASNU and SC. Mid-ventricular ECV was similar between AASU, AASNU and SC (22±6 vs 23±4 vs 24±4%, respectively, p=0.37). Focal myocardial fibrosis was found in 2 individuals (11%) of AASU. The mid anteroseptal and mid inferoseptal were the most affected segments. The total estimated mass of the LV mass was 1.25 g (0.65%). Three participants of SC showed focal myocardial fibrosis. The mid anterolateral, mid inferolateral and mid inferomedial were the most affected segments. The total estimated mass of the LV mass was 3.43 g (2.30%). In contrast, none of the AASNU had myocardial fibrosis. By CMR, AASU showed a lower medial radial strain (30±8 vs. 38±6%, p&lt;0.01), medial circumferential strain (−17±3 vs −20±2%, p&lt;0.01) and global longitudinal strain (−17±3 vs −20±3%, p&lt;0.01) compared with AASNU. Echocardiography also demonstrated a lower 4CH longitudinal strain in AASU compared with AASNU (−15.5±3 vs −18.3±2%, p=0.03). Moreover, the AASU shower a higher left ventricle mass compared with AASNU and SC (185±20 vs 130±17 vs 112±14 g, respectively, p&lt;0.01). Conclusion This study indicates that AAS abuse may be associated with decreased myocardial native T1 times, impaired myocardial contractility and focal myocardial fibrosis. These myocardial structural and functional alterations may be associated to unadapted cardiac hypertrophy in young AAS users. Acknowledgement/Funding Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo [FAPESP], Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (Capes).

Symptoms of Muscle Dysmorphia Between Users of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids With Varying Usage and Bodybuilding Experience

Abstract. Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) usage has been repeatedly linked with a body image disorder called Muscle Dysmorphia (MD). However, evidence for how this relationship manifests is currently inconclusive. This study focused on the extent to which MD may precipitate or perpetuate the use of AAS. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, the sample consisted of 57 users (current and lifetime) and 51 non-using (never used AAS) bodybuilders recruited from two bodybuilding dedicated gymnasiums located in Wales, UK. Significantly higher levels of MD were found in users compared to non-users across training experience duration (0–2, 3–5, and 6+ years). MD levels irrespective of AAS usage (users vs. non-users) were consistent between 0–2 and 3–5 years of training declining however between those of 6+ years training experience. No differences were reported in symptoms of MD between users of AAS with varying lengths of AAS use exposure. This provides preliminary evidence suggesting MD may influence both initiation and maintenance of AAS use; however, neither regular gym attendance nor prolonged AAS usage may exacerbate MD symptoms.

Decreased T1 Times and Impaired Myocardial Contractility in Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Users

Decreased T1 Times and Impaired Myocardial Contractility in Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Users

Diminished cholesterol efflux mediated by HDL and coronary artery disease in young male anabolic androgenic steroid users

Background and aimsAnabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) have been associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). AAS abuse leads to a remarkable decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) plasma concentration, which could be a key factor in the atherosclerotic process. Moreover, not only the concentration of HDL, but also its functionality, plays a pivotal role in CAD. We tested the functionality of HDL by cholesterol efflux and antioxidant capacity. We also evaluated the prevalence of CAD in AAS users. MethodsTwenty strength-trained AAS users (AASU) age 29 ± 5 yr, 20 age-matched strength-trained AAS nonusers (AASNU), and 10 sedentary controls (SC) were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Functionality of HDL was evaluated by 14C-cholesterol efflux and the ability of HDL in inhibiting LDL oxidation. Coronary artery was evaluated with coronary computed tomography angiography. ResultsCholesterol efflux was lower in AASU compared with AASNU and SC (20 vs. 23 vs. 24%, respectively, p < 0.001). However, the lag time for LDL oxidation was higher in AASU compared with AASNU and SC (41 vs 13 vs 11 min, respectively, p < 0.001). We found at least 2 coronary arteries with plaques in 25% of AASU. None of the AASNU and SC had plaques. The time of AAS use was negatively associated with cholesterol efflux. ConclusionsThis study indicates that AAS abuse impairs the cholesterol efflux mediated by HDL. Long-term AAS use seems to be correlated with lower cholesterol efflux and early subclinical CAD in this population.

Anabolic androgenic steroid users: a tilt test study with young adult men

IntroductionAnabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) can induce cardiac dysautonomia, which is related to arrhythmias, vasovagal syncope (VVS) and sudden death. The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of AASs increases the susceptibility for VVS or autonomic dysfunction in AAS users by the head-up tilt test (HUTT).Material and methodsCross-sectional observational study conducted with physically active young men, users (AAS group; n = 10) and non-users (Control group, n = 13) of AAS. The history of physical activity and age of each participant were recorded and the following examinations were performed: physical, biochemical, hormonal, electrocardiogram (ECG), 24-hour Holter recorder equipment. The 24-hour Holter and HUTT were conducted to detect the presence of arrhythmias/heart rate variability, and VVS/dysautonomia, respectively. Of the 28 participants recruited, 5 were excluded for not having completed the examinations.ResultsCompared with non-users, users of AAS showed an increase in aspartate aminotransferase (Control: 29.7 ±1.8; AAS: 49.9 ±9.0 UI/l; p &lt; 0.05), in ventricular extrasystoles (Control: 2.5 ±2.3; AAS: 14.9 ±11.2, p &lt; 0.05), and reduction in the pNN50 index of Holter (Control: 24.3 ±4.0%; AAS: 14.8 ±4.0%, p &lt; 0.05). The HUTT showed that the maximum value of diastolic blood pressure was increased in the AAS user group (Control: 78.3 ±2.1; AAS: 90.0 ±5.4 mm Hg, p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionsThe study showed that the use of AAS is able to promote an autonomic dysfunction, with a ventricular arrhythmia. In addition it was found that among AAS users there was a positive result for the HUTT.

Ischemic Preconditioning Efficacy Following Anabolic Steroid Usage: A Clear Difference Between Sedentary and Exercise-Trained Rat Hearts.

Previous studies show that anabolic steroids impair innate cardioprotective mechanisms. Here, we investigated the effect of supraphysiological doses of nandrolone on ischemic preconditioning (IPC) as a potent cardioprotective tool against ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury in rat hearts. Male Wistar rats in two experimental settings of sedentary and exercise-trained (60min/day swimming, 5days/week, for 8weeks) were either pretreated with intramuscular injections of arachis oil (Arach, n = 16) as vehicle or nandrolone decanoate (ND, n = 8), 10mg/kg/week, for 8weeks. At the end, the hearts were excised and perfused in a Langendorff system. Then, the vehicle-treated hearts subdivided into the IR (30min of LAD coronary artery occlusion and 120min reperfusion, n = 8) and IPC (three cycles of 3-min ischemia and 3-min reperfusion before test ischemia, n = 8) groups and nandrolone-treated hearts served as ND + IPC (nandrolone pretreatment before IR and IPC protocols, n = 8) group. Post-ischemic cardiac function and infarct size were assessed. Reperfusion arrhythmias were analyzed using a standard scoring system. In sedentary hearts, ND slightly increased heart-to-body weight ratio and increased baseline cardiac contractile function. In trained hearts, ND markedly increased heart-to-body weight ratio which was also associated with enhanced baseline cardiac function. ND pretreatment enhanced protective effects of IPC in sedentary group; however, abolished these effects in exercise-trained group. The arrhythmia score was not significantly different between nandrolone-treated groups vs. respective preconditioned groups. Our findings show that ND impairs IPC-induced cardioprotection in exercise-trained rat hearts. Cardiac hypertrophy seems to play a crucial role in this response.

Retrograde and oscillatory shear rate in young anabolic androgenic steroid users.

Disturbed shear rate (SR), characterized by increased retrograde and oscillatory SR in the brachial artery, is associated with inflammation, atherosclerosis, endothelial dysfunction, and sympathetic hyperactivity. Young subjects do not have disturbed SR; however, elderly subjects do, which seems to be associated with sympathetic hyperactivity. Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse in young is associated with increased muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA). We hypothesized that AAS users might have disturbed SR. We tested the association between retrograde and oscillatory SR with MSNA. In addition, we measured the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). We evaluated 10 male AAS users, age 27±4years, and 10 age-matched AAS nonusers, age 29±5years. At rest, retrograde and oscillatory SR were evaluated by Doppler ultrasound, MSNA was measured with microneurography, and hs-CRP was measured in blood sample. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was also assessed. AAS users had higher retrograde SR (24.42±17.25 vs 9.15±6.62s- 1 , P=0.01), oscillatory SR (0.22±0.13 vs 0.09±0.07 au P=0.01), and MSNA (42±9 vs 32±4 bursts/100 heart beats, P=0.018) than nonusers. MSNA (bursts/100 heart beats) was correlated with retrograde SR (r=0.50, P=0.050) and oscillatory SR (r=0.51, P=0.042). AAS users had higher hs-CRP [1.17 (0.44-3.63) vs 0.29 (0.17-0.70) mg/L, P=0.015] and decreased FMD (6.42±2.07 vs 8.28%±1.53%, P=0.035) than nonusers. In conclusion, AAS abuse is associated with retrograde and oscillatory SR which were associated with augmented sympathetic outflow. In addition, AAS seems to lead to inflammation characterized by increased hs-CRP. These alterations may have the potential of increasing the early risk of atherosclerotic disease in young AAS users.