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Pope HG, Kanayama G. Reduced Quality of Life in Former Androgen Users: An Evolving Public-Health Concern. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e1400-e1401. [PMID: 37955864 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Harrison G Pope
- Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Gen Kanayama
- Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Kotzé J, Richardson A, Antonopoulos GA. Getting big but not hard: A retrospective case-study of a male powerlifter's experience of steroid-induced erectile dysfunction. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 121:104195. [PMID: 37778131 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
This article aims to excavate the lived experience of suffering with steroid-induced erectile dysfunction. By drawing upon original qualitative data, we chart the subjective journey to recovery of a male powerlifter and draw attention to the potential dangers of a self-help approach to treatment. Erectile dysfunction is a common symptom of anabolic-androgenic steroid-induced hypogonadism, a condition not commonly reported or discussed and is therefore a poorly studied health issue. Often considered a taboo subject, detailed accounts of men's experience of erectile dysfunction are relatively sparce, and so this paper makes an important contribution to bolstering what is a limited literature base. Links between contemporary conceptions of masculinity, muscularity, and sexual prowess are explored and form the basis of a critical analysis of popular treatment and prevention strategies. Among the central findings, this article suggests that steroids are not consumed despite the well-known risks, but precisely because the risks are well-known and ostensibly mitigated through engagement with 'bro-science'. We conclude that there is a concerning misalignment in current treatment and prevention strategies that needs to be addressed if the issue of non-prescribed steroid use is to be effectively tackled. This research therefore raises serious questions for the healthcare profession and its approach towards treating and preventing steroid consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Kotzé
- Department of Social Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.
| | - Andrew Richardson
- School of Social Sciences Humanities and Law, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
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Mulawkar PM, Maheshwari PN, Gauhar V, Agrawal SG, Mohammed TO, Singh AG, Tak GR, Shah US, Shukla DP, Mamankar D. Use of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids and Male Fertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Hum Reprod Sci 2023; 16:268-285. [PMID: 38322636 PMCID: PMC10841926 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_90_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are often used by men for bodybuilding and to improve sports performance. The use is not limited to professional competitive athletes, but many amateur men. Objective The objective of this study was to assess and systematically review the effects of AAS on male fertility parameters, spermiogram, testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) and to review reversibility and other morbidity impacting fertility. Methods Eligibility criteria - We included studies mentioning data about adult males using supraphysiologic doses of AAS for sports performance or appearance enhancement, with comparison data from general population or matched controls if available reporting fertility parameters and sexual performance. Information sources - A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar and World of Science. Controlled clinical trials randomised or nonrandomised (if available), case series with or without matched controls, case reports, cross-sectional surveys, reports on follow-up of subjects caught in doping test and their fertility parameters when reported. Risk of bias/quality assessment - The quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results Included studies - Thirty-two studies were included. There were 12 cohort studies, 5 case-control studies, 9 cross-sectional surveys and 6 case reports. The study population comprised 9371 individuals, of which 2671 were AAS users. Synthesis of results - AAS users had reduced levels of FSH and LH than the naïve population. These levels remained low for 3-6 months after stopping AAS. One year after stopping AAS, the users and naïve population had insignificant differences in FSH and LH values. The total testosterone (TT) levels were comparable in users and naïve populations at baseline, 3 months and 6 months after stopping, but at 1 year, TT values were lower in AAS users. Sperm concentration in AAS users and naïve population was similar, but sperm motility was lower in AAS users. The testicular size was lower in AAS users. The erectile function improved with AAS use, but on withdrawal, there was decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Most AAS users need additional medications to mitigate detrimental effects on fertility. Description of the effect - AAS use negatively impacted the gonadotrophin levels and had lower sperm motility and testicular size. Strength - Comprehensive review of 32 publications, study population of 9371 individuals, of which 2671 were AAS users, meta-analysis of reproductive hormones, semen parameters and testis size. Limitations The limitations are small sample size of most of the studies, polypharmacy, lack of information on dosing and high heterogeneity. Interpretation AAS use is detrimental for sperm motility and has a partially reversible negative impact on male fertility. Users must be cautioned about its negative impact on libido and erectile function.Registration: PROSPERO Registration No. CRD42023411294.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Motiram Mulawkar
- Urology, Tirthankar Superspeciality Hospital, Mumbai, India
- Department of Urology, GMC and SSH, Mumbai, India
- Urology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Vineet Gauhar
- Urology, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, NUHS, Singapore
| | | | | | | | - Gopal Ramdas Tak
- Urology, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Al Hashimi M, Farahat Y, Kandil H, Al Khalidi I. Androgenic-anabolic steroid abuse trend and management: A prospective, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1032. [PMID: 36628108 PMCID: PMC9827233 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Androgenic-anabolic steroid (AAS) abuse is a global health concern, studies revealing an increasing trend of abuse and deleterious effects on reproductive health. Unfortunately, there is no consensus about management pathways due to the lack of specific guidelines. Methods A prospective study, multicentre, online survey, composed of 30 questions, was conducted to investigate the current trend of AAS abuse and the management followed by practitioners from different specialities dealing with this condition. Results A total of 151 respondents were included. The majority were general urologists (68.21%), andrologists (22.51%), and endocrinologists (9.28%). An increasing trend of AAS abuse was noticed by 90.73% of participants mostly in young age populations. Most of AAS abusers were presented with infertility (64.24%) and erectile dysfunction (59.60%), and their investigations showed abnormal semen analysis (77.48%), abnormal hormones (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and estradiol) (94.70%), and reduction in testicular size (50.33%). Most of respondents expected: the need of long duration for spontaneous recovery (6-12 months), relapse of AAS abuse in one-third of patients, less knowledge about the adverse effects (39.74%), and risk of drug dependence (54.30%). Immediate treatment was the most offered plan of management (44.37%) followed by a waiting spontaneous recovery (32.45%), while the remaining would refer the patients to an either endocrinologist or andrologist. The treating physicians did not follow specific guidelines and most of participants (44.44%) reverted to their personal experience in the management. Conclusions Our study revealed an increasing trend of AAS abuse, deleterious effects of AAS use on reproductive health, and lack of consensuses among the treating physicians regarding the management of related adverse effects. Our study could be considered a call to the scientific bodies to have more studies, establish guidelines for management, and to have better awareness of this serious public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manaf Al Hashimi
- Urology DepartmentBurjeel HospitalAbu DhabiUAE
- Khalifa UniversityCollege of Medicine and Health SciencesAbu DhabiUAE
| | - Yasser Farahat
- Urology DepartmentShaikh Khalifa HospitalUmm Al QuwainUAE
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Bond P, Smit DL, de Ronde W. Anabolic-androgenic steroids: How do they work and what are the risks? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1059473. [PMID: 36644692 PMCID: PMC9837614 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1059473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diederik L. Smit
- Department of Internal Medicine, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Willem de Ronde
- Department of Internal Medicine, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, Netherlands
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Thirumalai A, Anawalt BD. Androgenic Steroids Use and Abuse. Urol Clin North Am 2022; 49:645-663. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Alemany M. The Roles of Androgens in Humans: Biology, Metabolic Regulation and Health. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11952. [PMID: 36233256 PMCID: PMC9569951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens are an important and diverse group of steroid hormone molecular species. They play varied functional roles, such as the control of metabolic energy fate and partition, the maintenance of skeletal and body protein and integrity and the development of brain capabilities and behavioral setup (including those factors defining maleness). In addition, androgens are the precursors of estrogens, with which they share an extensive control of the reproductive mechanisms (in both sexes). In this review, the types of androgens, their functions and signaling are tabulated and described, including some less-known functions. The close interrelationship between corticosteroids and androgens is also analyzed, centered in the adrenal cortex, together with the main feedback control systems of the hypothalamic-hypophysis-gonads axis, and its modulation by the metabolic environment, sex, age and health. Testosterone (T) is singled out because of its high synthesis rate and turnover, but also because age-related hypogonadism is a key signal for the biologically planned early obsolescence of men, and the delayed onset of a faster rate of functional losses in women after menopause. The close collaboration of T with estradiol (E2) active in the maintenance of body metabolic systems is also presented Their parallel insufficiency has been directly related to the ravages of senescence and the metabolic syndrome constellation of disorders. The clinical use of T to correct hypoandrogenism helps maintain the functionality of core metabolism, limiting excess fat deposition, sarcopenia and cognoscitive frailty (part of these effects are due to the E2 generated from T). The effectiveness of using lipophilic T esters for T replacement treatments is analyzed in depth, and the main problems derived from their application are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marià Alemany
- Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Diagonal, 635, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain;
- Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Bates G, Ralphs R, Bond VW, Boardley I, Hope V, Van Hout MC, McVeigh J. Systems mapping to understand complexity in the association between image and performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs) and harm. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 107:103801. [PMID: 35858502 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective harm reduction work is needed to prevent and respond to the harms associated with image and performance enhancing drug (IPED) use and the diverse needs of IPED communities. Methods based around understanding and mapping complex systems have previously been applied to advance thinking on a range of complex health issues. We applied a systems perspective to explore factors that contribute to IPED-related harms in the UK and to identify harm reduction priorities. METHODS An illustrative systems map was developed based on methods for mapping complex systems with expert stakeholders. Participants in two online workshops debated the important factors contributing to harm amongst people who use IPEDs and helped to refine and clarify the map. Discussions using the map reflected on where in the system intervention is needed and the policy implications. RESULTS Stakeholders (n=18) identified 51 distinct factors as being important determinants of IPEDs-related harms, and the connections between them. These were grouped under nine domains that formed this system: identity, cognitive processes, beliefs about risk and harm, health and wellbeing, social environment, beliefs about healthcare, healthcare providers, interventions, and IPED markets. Four harm reduction priorities identified through reflexive discussion included providing a wider range of interventions, improving engagement between the IPED communities and healthcare professionals, new approaches to disseminating information in the community, and early intervention. CONCLUSION Systems mapping methods are a useful approach to engage stakeholders to discuss drug use issues. A comprehensive policy response is required to this complex issue that recognises diversity in IPEDs communities, their decision-making, and their intervention and service needs, as current approaches are failing to adequately address important areas of harm. Engaging with a wide range of stakeholders is critical to generate new insights that can help respond effectively to reduce the risk of health harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoff Bates
- Institute for Policy Research, University of Bath, 10 West, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - Rob Ralphs
- Department of Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University, Geoffrey Manton Building, 4 Rosamond Street West, Manchester, M15 6LL, UK
| | - Vincent Walker Bond
- Department of Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University, Geoffrey Manton Building, 4 Rosamond Street West, Manchester, M15 6LL, UK
| | - Ian Boardley
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Viv Hope
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor Exchange Stations, Tithebarn Street, Liverpool, L2 2QP, UK
| | - Marie-Claire Van Hout
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor Exchange Stations, Tithebarn Street, Liverpool, L2 2QP, UK
| | - Jim McVeigh
- Department of Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University, Geoffrey Manton Building, 4 Rosamond Street West, Manchester, M15 6LL, UK
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Suarez A MC, Israeli JM, Kresch E, Telis L, Nassau DE. Testosterone therapy in children and adolescents: to whom, how, when? Int J Impot Res 2022; 34:652-662. [PMID: 34997199 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-021-00525-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Male production of testosterone is crucial for the development of a wide range of functions. External and internal genitalia formation, secondary sexual characteristics, spermatogenesis, growth velocity, bone mass density, psychosocial maturation, and metabolic and cardiovascular profiles are closely dependent on testosterone exposure. Disorders in androgen production can present during all life-stages, including childhood and adolescence, and testosterone therapy (TT) is in many cases the only treatment that can correct the underlying deficit. TT is controversial in the pediatric population as hypoandrogenism is difficult to classify and diagnose in these age groups, and standardized protocols of treatment and monitorization are still lacking. In pediatric patients, hypogonadism can be central, primary, or a combination of both. Testosterone preparations are typically designed for adults' TT, and providers need to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of these formulations, especially cognizant of supratherapeutic dosing. Monitoring of testosterone levels in boys on TT should be tailored to the individual patient and based on the anticipated duration of therapy. Although clinical consensus is lacking, an approximation of the current challenges and common practices in pediatric hypoandrogenism could help elucidate the broad spectrum of pathologies that lie behind this single hormone deficiency with wide-ranging implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Camila Suarez A
- Department of Urology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Leon Telis
- Department of Urology, Lenox Hill Hospital, Donald and Barbra Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel E Nassau
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA.
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Min T, Karthikeyan A, Lee KH. Assessment of testicular steroidogenic enzymes expression in experimental animal model following withdrawal of nandrolone decanoate. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2021; 63:1247-1264. [PMID: 34957441 PMCID: PMC8672267 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2021.e102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic steroids are frequently used to increase the growth rate of
meat-producing animals. Exposure to an anabolic-androgenic steroid, nandrolone
decanoate (ND), is associated with expressional reduction of testicular
steroidogenic enzymes. However, the effect of withdrawal of ND exposure on the
expression of these testicular molecules has not been thoroughly explored. The
current research investigated expression changes of testicular steroidogenic
enzymes in rats at several recovery periods (2, 6, and 12 weeks) after the stop
of ND treatment with different doses (2 and 10 mg/kg body weight) for 12 weeks.
Body and testis weights were recorded, and transcript levels of molecules were
determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The
immunohistochemistry was used to examine the changes of immuno-intensities of
molecules. At 6 and 12 weeks of the recovery period, the 10 mg/kg ND-treated
rats were lighter than other experimental groups. The interstitial compartment
vanished by ND treatment filled up as the recovery period became longer. The
expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein was returned to the control
level at 12 weeks of the recovery period. Expression levels of cytochrome P450
side-chain cleavage and 17a-hydroxylase were increased in 2 mg/kg ND-treated
group at 6 weeks of the recovery period, and transcript levels of these
molecules in 2 and 10 mg/kg ND-treated groups at 12 weeks of the recovery period
were significantly lower than the control. Expression levels of
3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) type I and 17β-HSD type 3 in
2 mg/kg ND-treated group were comparable with those of control at 12 weeks of
the recovery period, but not in 10 mg/kg ND-treated group. Expression of
cytochrome P450 aromatase (Cyp19) was reverted to the control
level at 2 weeks of the recovery period. Except for Cyp19,
there was a visible increase of immuno-staining intensity of other testicular
steroidogenic enzymes in the Leydig cells as the recovery period progressed.
This research has demonstrated that the cease of ND administration could restore
the expression of testicular steroidogenic enzymes close to the normal level.
Nevertheless, a relatively long recovery period, compared to the ND-exposure
period would be required to retrieve normal expression levels of testicular
steroidogenic enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- TaeSun Min
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
| | - Adhimoolam Karthikeyan
- Subtropical Horticulture Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
| | - Ki-Ho Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon 34824, Korea
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