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Substance abusers' motives for using anabolic androgenic steroids
Anna Petersson1, Johanna Bengtsson, Anette Voltaire-Carlsson
1Department of Surgical Science, Division of Forensic Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|May 21, 2010
Summary
Anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) users in substance abuse treatment often have non-anabolic motives, including concealing drug use or addressing psychological issues. Clinicians should screen for AAS use, as it can cause significant side effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) use is often linked with illicit drug use.
- Previous research suggests non-anabolic motivations for AAS use among drug users.
- This study investigates AAS use motives in a Swedish substance abuse outpatient population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the diverse motives behind anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use.
- To identify non-anabolic reasons for AAS consumption among individuals seeking substance abuse treatment.
- To understand the psychological and behavioral factors associated with AAS use in this population.
Main Methods:
- A survey on AAS use was administered to male patients under 50 at a substance abuse center.
- Participants were screened for AAS use during the admittance interview.
- Data collected focused on reported motives and experiences with AAS.
Main Results:
- 11% of respondents (20 out of 175) reported AAS use.
- Primary motives included anabolic effects (body image, strength, sports performance).
- Other reported motives: concealing drug use, alleviating insecurity, enhancing bravery, and crime preparation. Side effects like irritability and depression/suicidal ideation were common.
Conclusions:
- Anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) users may have motivations beyond muscle enhancement.
- Non-anabolic motives for AAS use are prevalent in substance abuse populations.
- Screening for AAS use is crucial in illicit drug users due to potential morbidity, even without visible signs.
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