Chapter 8

Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS) Related Disorders

Aly Hassan, Subhash C. Bhatia and Shashi K. Bhatia

Abstract

This chapter discusses epidemiologic, pathophysiology and diagnostic issues associated with long term none medical use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) .These agents are synthetic derivatives of the hormone testosterone with higher bioavailability and activity [1]. These drugs are used by athletes to gain muscle mass thereby gaining advantage. As a result many users often don’t disclose their use to their doctors [2, 3]. Medical complications may include, hypertension, cardiomyopathy and hypogonadism. Psychiatric complications may include mood and psychotic disorders [4]. Withdrawal may lead to dysphoria and irritability. Patients usually do not consider themselves as addicted. They traditionally think that they are more knowledgeable about these drugs than their doctors [2, 3]. In USA, AAS are currently schedule class III drugs requiring prescription, however they can be easily obtained online from other countries.

Total Pages: 91-98 (8)

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