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Anabolic-androgenic steroids and related substances.
Charles E Yesalis1, Michael S Bahrke
1Pennsylvania State University, 114 Henderson Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA. cey2@psu.edu
Current Sports Medicine Reports
|July 2, 2003
Summary
Anabolic-androgenic steroids like androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) do not effectively increase testosterone levels for athletic enhancement. Long-term health effects and potential virilizing effects in women remain unknown.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Sports Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anabolic-androgenic steroids are synthetic testosterone derivatives.
- They are misused for athletic performance and aesthetic enhancement.
- Potential adverse effects impact the liver, lipids, psyche, and reproductive system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in increasing testosterone levels.
- To assess their impact on strength, lean body mass, and sexual performance.
- To review reported health benefits and potential risks.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on androstenedione and DHEA.
- Analysis of research investigating hormonal and physiological effects.
- Examination of reported adverse effects and long-term consequences.
Main Results:
- No significant evidence supports androstenedione increasing strength or lean body mass via testosterone.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation does not raise serum testosterone or improve strength in men.
- DHEA may cause virilizing effects in women.
Conclusions:
- Androstenedione and DHEA lack proven efficacy for enhancing athletic performance through testosterone elevation.
- Long-term health risks associated with androstenedione are not established.
- DHEA's purported antiaging and performance benefits are not supported by research, with potential risks for women.