Effects Of Anabolic Steroid Use Research Articles

30-Year-Old Man With Outside-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest

30-Year-Old Man With Outside-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest

Establishment of a library of fragments for the rapid and reliable determination of anabolic steroids by liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry

Anabolic steroids have similar structures to testosterone, both of which promote the growth of muscle mass and increase strength. However, the side effects of anabolic steroid use may lead to heart attacks or strokes. Additionally, the excessive use of steroids inhibits the production of the sex hormones in the body via a negative feedback loop, which results in testicular atrophy in males and amenorrhea in females. Currently, the method of choice used to test for the presence of anabolic steroids is GC-MS. However, GC-MS methods require chemical derivatization of the steroid sample to ensure compatibility with the analytical method; therefore, analysis of many different samples is difficult and time consuming. Unlike GC-MS, the liquid chromatography-quadrupoletime of flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS) method is suitable for many samples. Twenty-two different anabolic steroids were analyzed by LC-Q-TOF-MS with various collision energies (CE). Accurate mass spectral data were obtained using a Q-TOF-MS equipped with an electro-spray ionization source and operated in the positive MS/MS mode for several classes of steroids that are often the targets of testing. Based on the collected data, fragmentation pathways were carefully elucidated. The high selectivity and sensitivity of the LC-Q-TOF-MS instrument combined with these fragmentation pathways offers a new approach for the rapid and accurate screening of anabolic steroids. The obtained data from the 22 different anabolic steroids will be shared with the scientific community in order to establish a library to aid in the screening of illegal anabolic steroids.

Knowledge and Attitudes of Amateur Sports Participants Regarding the Cardiac Risks Associated With the Use of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids

Background The effect of anabolic androgenic steroids on the cardiovascular system has been well researched. However the knowledge of these effects amongst amateur sports participants has not been accurately identified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the awareness and attitudes of the cardiac risks associated with anabolic steroid use. Design: A qualitative, cross-sectional, observational study using an anonymous online questionnaire was filled out by amateur sports participants enrolled in competitive sports teams at an Irish university. Methods: The survey contained questions to assess the participant’s knowledge of cardiac effects of the use of anabolic steroids. These include its effects on blood pressure, cholesterol and potential for development of arrhythmias. The participant’s attitudes, prevalence and access to the use of anabolic steroids were also investigated. Results: A total of 267 individuals were invited to fill out the online questions. 54 responses were returned for analysis, giving a response rate of 20%. One-third of respondents personally knew someone that uses anabolic steroids, however 59% of participants were never advised about their health effects. The majority obtained their nutritional advice from Internet sites or friends. 59% and 26%, respectively, knew about the blood pressure and cholesterol effects of anabolic steroid use. 17% of individuals had used or had ever considered using anabolic steroids. Only 11% were given information about performance enhancing drugs when they joined their university sports club. Conclusions: The knowledge of the cardiac risks associated with the use of anabolic steroids amongst amateur sports participants was generally poor. Efforts must be made to educate coaches and gym facilities about the harmful effects of certain performance enhancing drugs.

Use of the anabolic steroid nandrolone decanoate associated to strength training in Wistar rats

Anabolic steroids have been constantly used among athletes and physically active individuals. Adverse effects of such use are reported in the literature. However, little is known about the effects of anabolic steroid use associated with strength training. Thus, this research aimed to identify possible morphophysiological alterations in Wistar rats treated with the anabolic steroid nandrolone decanoate and submitted to strength training. Twenty Wistar rats were divided in four groups: sedentary control (SC), sedentary hormone (SH), trained control (TC) and trained hormone (TH). After the experimental protocol period, animals were killed and body weight, adiposity, renal and hepatic injury markers, plasmatic lipid profile, glycemia, and insulinemia were determined. The experimental conditions strength training and nandrolone decanoate (isolated or associated) were positively correlated to a reduction on visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue. The association of strength training with nandrolone decanoate was the most effective condition to increase muscle mass. Heart and kidneys weights, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) concentration were also negatively modified. The data demonstrated effects of anabolic steroids in body composition, with better results when associated with strength training, but collateral effects were observed.

Effects of anabolic steroid use on myocardial perfusion in body-builders: a quantitative cardiovascular magnetic resonance Study

Methods Twenty one body-builders were studied 14 anabolic steroid users and 7 controls matched for age and training history. First pass CMR perfusion imaging was performed on a 1.5T Avanto (Siemens, Erlangen, Germany) after adenosine-induced hyperemia (140 mcg/kg/min) and at rest using a hybrid echo-planar imaging sequence. Images of the base, mid-ventricle and apex were acquired and the myocardium was divided into 16 segments as well as endocardial and epicardial layers. After image registration, a modified Fermi-constrained deconvolution algorithm was applied pixel-wise to quantify absolute MBF. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging was performed as well as standard assessment of ventricular volumes, function and LV mass. Data were analysed using a linear mixed effects model.

Cardiac effects of anabolic steroid use amongst recreational body builders - a CMR study

Background Abuse of anabolic steroids to induce skeletal muscle hypertrophy is widespread amongst recreational bodybuilders, however, the cardiac effects of such drugs have not been systematically documented. The ability of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) to image the myocardium in any plane and achieve full myocardial coverage renders it the gold standard for assessing LV volumes and mass.We sought to investigate the cardiac effects of anabolic steroid use with CMR hypothesising that significant hypertrophy and distinct LV remodelling would be seen in steroid users relative to non-users. Methods

Committee Opinion No. 484: Performance Enhancing Anabolic Steroid Abuse in Women

Anabolic steroids are composed of testosterone and other substances related to testosterone that promote growth of skeletal muscle, increase hemoglobin concentration, and mediate secondary sexual characteristics. These substances have been in use since the 1930s to promote muscle growth, improve athletic performance, and enhance cosmetic appearance. Although anabolic steroids are controlled substances, only to be prescribed by a physician, it is currently possible to obtain anabolic steroids illegally without a prescription. There are significant negative physical and psychologic effects of anabolic steroid use, which in women can cause significant cosmetic and reproductive changes. Anabolic steroid use can be addictive and, therefore, difficult to stop. Treatment for anabolic steroid abuse generally involves education, counseling, and management of withdrawal symptoms. Health care providers are encouraged to address the use of these substances, encourage cessation, and refer patients to substance abuse treatment centers to prevent the long-term irreversible consequences of anabolic steroid use.

Anabolic steroids for the treatment of weight loss in HIV-infected individuals

Individuals with HIV infection often lose weight during the course of their disease. Furthermore, low serum concentrations of testosterone are common in individuals with HIV infection, particularly those with weight loss. Treatment of weight loss with anabolic steroids in HIV-infected individuals may be beneficial. Our objectives were to assess the efficacy and safety of anabolic steroids for the treatment of weight loss in adults with HIV infection. We searched the following databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, AIDSLINE, AIDSearch, EMBASE, CINAHL, Current Contents, and the National Library of Medicine Gateway Abstracts for controlled trials up to April 2005. We also searched the bibliographies of the identified studies and review the articles. In addition, pharmaceutical manufacturers of anabolic steroids were contacted. Randomized controlled trials that compared the use of an anabolic steroid to placebo to treat weight loss in adults with HIV were included. Randomized controlled trials that compared the use of anabolic steroids to placebo for the treatment of weight loss in adults with HIV were selected. Change from baseline in lean body mass or in body weight was reported as on outcome measure. Two reviewers independently assessed the trials for quality of randomization, blinding, withdrawals, and adequacy of allocation concealment. For continuous data, weighted mean differences (WMD) were calculated. For dichotomous outcomes, risk differences, were calculated. Because of uncertainty as to whether consistent true effects exist in such different populations and treatments, the authors decided a priori to use random effects models for all outcomes. Thirteen trials met the inclusion criteria. Two hundred ninety-four individuals randomized to anabolic steroid therapy and 238 individuals randomized to placebo were included in the analysis of efficacy for change from baseline in lean body mass. Three hundred forty-three individuals randomized to anabolic steroid and 286 randomized to placebo were included in the analysis of efficacy for change from baseline in body weight. The mean methodologic quality of the included studies was 4.1, of a maximum 5 points. Although significant heterogeneity was present for both outcomes, the average change in lean body mass was 1.3 kg (95% CI: 0.6, 2.0), while the average change in total body weight was 1.1 kg (95% CI: 0.3, 2.0). A total of eight deaths occurred during the treatment period; four in the anabolic steroid treatment groups and four in the placebo-treatment groups (risk difference 0.00, 95% CI -0.03, 0.03). The risk difference for withdrawals or discontinuations of study medication due to adverse events was 0.00 (95% CI: -0.02, 0.03). Although the results of the trials were heterogeneous, on average, the administration of anabolic steroids appeared to result in a small increase in both lean body mass and body weight as compared with placebo. While these results suggest that anabolic steroids may be useful in the treatment of weight loss in HIV infected individuals, due to limitations, treatment recommendations cannot be made. Further information is required regarding the long-term benefit and adverse effects of anabolic steroid use, the specific populations for which anabolic steroid therapy may be most beneficial, and the optimal regime. In addition, the correlation of improvement in lean body mass with more clinically relevant endpoints, such as physical functioning and survival, needs to be determined.

THE ERGOGENIC EFFECTS OF ANABOLIC STEROIDS: A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE LITERATURE

1581 The primary purpose of this scientific overview was to critically analyze the literature pertaining to the ergogenic effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids. Relevant articles were identified from MEDLINE (1966-1995) and SPORT DISCUSS (1975-1995) database searches using the MeSH headings “doping in sports (exploded)”, “anabolic steroids (exploded)”, and“androgens (exploded)”. Based on the application of a pre-determined inclusion/exclusion criteria, 16 original peer-reviewed articles were selected for review. Particular attention was paid to factors related to the performance enhancing components of muscle physiology to critically analyze the discrepancies in methodology between the selected studies. The results revealed that seven of the 12 studies investigating the effects of anabolic steroid use on strength reported a significant increase between the experimental group and the controls (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). None of the experiments which looked at the effects of these drugs on endurance revealed statistical significance, and only four of the 10 studies investigating body weight gain associated with anabolic steroid use found a significant increase between the experimental group and the controls (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). Lastly, of the studies assessing strength performances on animals using anabolic steroids, none reported a significant increase in strength compared to controls. Thus, the ergogenic effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids, from a research perspective, is inconclusive. Many of the experimental research designs did not directly address the components of muscle physiology that would be likely to enhance performance. If the ergogenic effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids are to be assessed in the future, several studies must be employed which utilize an analytic design and address the following components in their methodology: type of contraction, contraction duration, activation, muscle length, velocity specificity, muscle tension, training specificity, and supplementation.

Psychological effects of anabolic steroid use: a review

A positive link between aggression and levels of plasma testosterone has been found in animals and in humans, although learning and social factors have been found to be important in animals. The mood-altering properties of anabolic - androgenic steroids (AS) were investigated in experiments soon after their synthetic production began. They have been found to have similar effects on the brain to those of psychostimulants. The use of AS by sports competitors and especially bodybuilders is estimated to be relatively common, and numerous case studies have linked AS use with aggressive and violent behaviour. Also, some surveys suggest that AS exposure leads to elevated levels of irritability and/or aggression, and in some cases to psychiatric illness. Clinical studies tend to employ single drugs and lower dosages of AS than those reported in surveys, and have consistently indicated minimal behavioural changes and psychiatric symptoms. Dependence has also been reported with AS use. The interactions of heavy tra...

Indications of prevalence, practice and effects of anabolic steroid use in Great Britain.

A growing number of reports of anabolic-androgenic streroid (AS) use in Great Britain (GB) among non-competitive groups have emerged since the beginning of 1990s. A study was commissioned by the Departments of Health for England, Scotland and Wales, to explore the extent and uses of AS from the public health point of view. As a part of a wider investigation into AS use, 21 gymnasia in England, Scotland and Wales were surveyed by questionnaire. The response rate was 59%. We found that of the 1667 participants, 9.1% of the men and 2.3% of the women had taken AS at some time and 6% of the men and 1.4% of the women were current users. Considerable variation in the prevalence of use was found, ranging from no reports in three of the gymnasia, up to 46%. We also investigated patterns of AS use and perceived side-effects in a wide-ranging group of AS users (n = 110), who were recruited through social networks. In-depth interviews with the users revealed that the 97 men (27+/-7 years) and 13 women (25+/-5 years) had been using AS regularly for 2.05+/-1.7 years and 1.9+/-2 years, respectively. Seventy-two injected AS. While most injected themselves, 25% were mainly injected by their friend. Up to 16 different drugs were taken by interviewees during the present or last cycle. Polydrug use was common and dosage taken exceeded therapeutic recommendations. Sixteen interviewees did not report side-effects, while the majority reported two or more. Many of these were cosmetic. Of the 97 men interviewed, 56% reported testicular atrophy, 52% gynaecomastia, 36% elevated blood pressure, 56% fluid retention, 26% injuries to tendons, 22% nosebleeds and 16% more frequent colds. Six men reported problems with kidney function and five with liver function. Problems with sleep were reported by 37%. Of the 13 women interviewed, eight reported menstrual irregularities, eight fluid retention, four clitoral enlargement, three decreased breast size and two elevated blood pressure. Four reported sleeplessness.

Anabolic-androgenic steroids. Current issues.

The use of drugs to enhance physical performance has been observed for thousands of years. Today, individuals continue to use a variety of substances, including anabolic-androgenic steroids, in the hope of enhancing their performance and appearance. Rumours persist regarding the incidence of the nonmedical use of anabolic steroids by athletes and nonathletes: however, true estimates are now available based on the results of systematic surveys. Although the vast majority of the athletic community accepts that anabolic steroids enhance performance and appearance, the extent to which this occurs and the factors influencing such effects remain incompletely understood and documented. Refinement of our knowledge of the ergogenic effects of anabolic steroids is not without merit; however, the existing scientific evidence coupled with an overwhelming number of anecdotal accounts argues against devoting significant resources to this area of investigation at present. The short term health effects of anabolic steroids have been increasingly studied and reviewed, and while anabolic steroid use has been associated with several adverse and even fatal effects, the incidence of serious effects thus far reported has been extremely low. The long term effects of anabolic steroid use are generally unknown. Unfortunately, the lack of scientific information on long term health effects has impeded, if not precluded, the formation of effective health education and drug abuse prevention strategies. Consequently, efforts should be expanded in the areas of prevention and education.

Anabolic steroids in sport and exercise

Part I. History and Incidence of Use Chapter 1. Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids: A Historical Perspective and Definition Charles D. Kochakian and Charles E. Yesalis Endocrine Function of the Testis Androgens: Multiplicity of Male Hormones Anabolic Activity Partial Dissociation of Anabolic Activity From Androgenic Activity Anabolic Steroids Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids Therapeutic and Other Applications Veterinary Applications Summary References Chapter 2. History of Anabolic Steroid Use in Sport and Exercise Charles E. Yesalis, Stephen P. Courson, and James E. Wright Olympic Sports Female Athletes National Doping Programs Professional Football College High School Other Sports Conclusions References Chapter 3. Incidence of Anabolic Steroid Use: A Discussion of Methodological Issues Charles E. Yesalis, Michael S. Bahrke, Andrea N. Kopstein, and Camille K. Barsukiewicz Investigative Journalism Government Investigations Drug Testing Surveys Current Trends Methodological Issues Recommendations References Chapter 4. Prevention of Anabolic Steroid Use Linn Goldberg and Diane L. Elliot Scope of the Problem Drug-Testing Policy Educational Strategies AS Education: The ATLAS Study The ATLAS Program Conclusions References Part II. Effects, Dependence, and Treatment Issues Chapter 5. Effect of Anabolic Steroid Use on Body Composition and Physical Performance Karl E. Friedl Variations in Physiological Response to Anabolic Steroids Comparing Anabolic Steroid Dose and Effects Empirical Strength Studies Composition of Steroid-Induced Body Weight Gain Body Composition Changes After Cessation of Anabolic Steroid Use Neuromuscular and Neuropsychological Effects of Anabolic Steroid Use Sustainment of Androgenicity During Demanding Physical Training Countermeasures for Stress-Induced Catabolic Hormones Improved Aerobic Endurance Performance Conclusions References Chapter 6. Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Physical Health Karl E. Friedl Distinctions Between Types and Doses of Anabolic Steroids Case Reports of Adverse Effects in Anabolic Steroid-Using Athletes Suspected Disease Associations Stroke: A New Association With Anabolic Steroids Prostate: An Androgen Target and Potential for Disease Musculoskeletal Injuries Problems Indirectly Associated With Anabolic Steroids Research on Health Effects Conclusions References Chapter 7. Women and Anabolic Steroids Diane L. Elliot and Linn Goldberg Normal Physiological Effects of Testosterone in Women and Men Prevalence of Anabolic Steroid Use in Females Physical Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Women Psychological Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Females DHEA: A Weak Androgen Physique-Altering Drug Use References Chapter 8. Psychological Effects of Endogenous Testosterone and Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids Michael S. Bahrke Anabolic Steroids and Aggressive Behavior in Animals Effect of Endogenous Testosterone Levels on Human Moods and Behaviors Estrogen-Related Aggression Contraceptive Studies and Moods Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Athletes' Moods and Behavior Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Psychological Dependence and Withdrawal Methodological Issues Conclusions References Chapter 9. Anabolic Steroids: Potential for Physical and Psychological Dependence Kirk J. Brower The Nature of Drug Abuse and Dependence Evidence for Dependence on Anabolic Steroids Mechanisms of Anabolic Steroid Dependence Predictors of Anabolic Steroid Dependence Course of Dependence on Anabolic Steroids Prevention and Treatment References Chapter 10. Assessment and Treatment of Anabolic Steroid Abuse, Dependence, and Withdrawal Kirk J. Brower Identification and Assessment Treatment of Withdrawal Conclusions References Chapter 11. Legal Aspects of Anabolic Steroid Use and Abuse Carol Cole Kleinman and C.E. Petit Direct Legal Consequences of Steroid Abuse Indirect Legal Consequences of Steroid Abuse: Criminal Behavior The Proper Role of the Legal System Regarding Steroid Abuse References Part III. Testing and Societal Alternatives Chapter 12. Evolution and Politics of Drug Testing Jim Ferstle The Year of Scandals History of Drug Testing The Roots of Modern Drug Testing Challenges and Limitations in Drug Testing Causes for Criticism of Drug Testing Possible Solutions Outside the IOC Athletes' Rights in Drug Testing 1984: The L.A. Cover-Up More Secrets Testing Issues in Pro and U.S. Collegiate Sports Politics and Pharmacological Warfare Drug Testing and the Media References Chapter 13. Drug Testing and Anabolic Steroids R. Craig Kammerer Blood or Urine Testing? Structures, Chemistry, and Metabolism Technology of Anabolic Steroid Testing Philosophy of Anabolic Steroid Testing Costs of Anabolic Steroid Testing Circumventing Positive Test Results Use of Other Substances Future Directions in Anabolic Steroid Testing References Chapter 14. Societal Alternatives Charles E. Yesalis, Michael S. Bahrke, and James E. Wright Legalization: An End to Hypocrisy? Interdiction: A Question of Cost-Effectiveness Education: Is Anybody Listening? Conclusion: Our Values Must Change References

Coagulation abnormalities associated with the use of anabolic steroids

According to a number of recent reports, persons using anabolic steroids may be subject to an increased risk of thromboembolism. We evaluated the effect of anabolic steroid use on the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems of 16 male bodybuilders to determine whether alterations occurred that would predispose them to a hypercoagulable state. No attempt was made to regulate or guide steroid use. Paired blood samples, both with and without steroid use, were obtained from six individuals, and the remaining subjects provided single samples obtained either during steroid use or nonuse. No differences were noted in most parameters, but we did find a significant increase in protein C antigen ( p = 0.008) and free protein S antigen ( p = 0.015), with a decreased euglobulin lysis time ( p = 0.021) during steroid use. We also found a reduction in total cholesterol levels ( p = 0.035) during steroid use. At least some of these findings suggest an activated fibrinolytic state, a known effect of anabolic steroids. The results do not support the presence of a hypercoagulable state. If anabolic steroids do produce a thrombotic tendency, they may do so through alterations in other hemostatic mechanisms or changes in lipid fractions, or more sensitive coagulation assays may be required for detection.

Sexual functioning of male anabolic steroid abusers.

The effects of anabolic steroid use on male sexual behavior were assessed using a structured clinical interview administered to male body builders currently using steroids, and to two comparison groups (body builders with a past but not current history of steroid use, and a group of "natural" body builders who had never used steroids). Current anabolic steroid users had a significantly higher coital and orgasmic frequency than did comparison athletes. They also reported a significantly higher incidence of erectile difficulties during the past month. Beliefs concerning the sexually stimulating effects of steroids did not correlate with the frequencies of specific sexual behaviors. The data support the contention that anabolic steroids, as androgenic compounds, enhance sexual desire.

Insulin resistance and diminished glucose tolerance in powerlifters ingesting anabolic steroids.

To examine the effects of anabolic steroid use on glucose homeostasis, we determined oral glucose tolerance and serum insulin response to glucose in 15 male powerlifters, 6 obese men, and 10 sedentary nonobese men. Eight of the powerlifters had self-administered large doses (200 mg/day) of anabolic steroids for periods of up to 7 yr, whereas 7 had never used anabolic steroids. Powerlifters who ingested anabolic steroids had diminished glucose tolerance compared to the nonsteroid-using group, despite having substantially higher postglucose serum insulin concentrations. Postglucose insulin responses were also higher in steroid users than in the sedentary nonobese and sedentary obese reference groups. These results indicate that powerlifters who ingest anabolic steroids have diminished glucose tolerance, which is likely to be secondary to insulin resistance.