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Oral testosterone self-administration in male hamsters
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn., USA.
Neuroendocrinology
|May 8, 2001
Summary
This study shows that hamsters voluntarily consume oral testosterone, indicating its reinforcing properties. These findings suggest a potential for anabolic steroid dependence in humans.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The addictive potential of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is not well understood.
- Testosterone is a primary AAS with known physiological effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reinforcing effects of voluntary oral testosterone intake in a preclinical model.
- To explore the potential for anabolic steroid dependence.
Main Methods:
- A two-bottle choice test was used to assess hamster preference for testosterone solutions.
- Fluid intake was monitored under conditions of food availability and withdrawal.
- Cholesterol was used as a control sterol.
Main Results:
- Male hamsters preferred an aqueous solution of testosterone (200 microg/ml) over a vehicle.
- Higher concentrations of testosterone (400 microg/ml) increased fluid consumption, while cholesterol decreased it.
- Testosterone intake was maintained even when food was withdrawn, suggesting a reinforcing effect.
Conclusions:
- Oral self-administration of testosterone is reinforcing in hamsters.
- These findings suggest that testosterone's rewarding properties may contribute to the potential for dependence in human users.