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Anabolic-androgenic steroid testing as a tool for consumer engagement and harm reduction: a sequential explanatory
Timothy Piatkowski1,2,3,4,5, Ross Coomber6, Cameron Francis7
1School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mount Gravatt Campus, Gold Coast, QLD, 4122, Australia. t.piatkowski@griffith.edu.au.
Harm Reduction Journal
|July 4, 2025
Summary
Enhanced anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) testing revealed product inconsistencies, reducing consumer trust and promoting safer practices. This highlights the value of drug checking for harm reduction among AAS users.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Chemistry
- Public Health
- Harm Reduction
Background:
- Widespread anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use is associated with risks due to limited regulation and product quality control.
- Consumers face exposure to misidentified and contaminated AAS products, necessitating enhanced analytical methods.
- This study addresses the need for improved AAS testing and understanding consumer responses to inform harm reduction strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To expand AAS testing capabilities through enhanced purity analysis and identification of branding inconsistencies.
- To evaluate the impact of chemical testing results and feedback on consumer behaviour and decision-making.
- To assess the role of drug checking services in promoting harm reduction among AAS consumers.
Main Methods:
- A sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach was employed, combining chemical analysis of community-submitted AAS samples with participant interviews.
- Direct mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry were utilized for accurate identity and dosage verification of AAS samples.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with AAS consumers to explore their understanding of test results and subsequent changes in usage patterns.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 58 AAS samples revealed significant presence and purity issues in a notable proportion of submitted products.
- Interviews with 25 AAS consumers indicated that testing results reduced trust in substances, leading to more cautious usage.
- Follow-up assessments showed that participants reconsidered their AAS usage practices following exposure to testing feedback.
Conclusions:
- Chemical analysis of AAS is a potent tool for influencing consumer practices and promoting safer drug use.
- Integrating drug checking services with harm reduction interventions can significantly enhance consumer safety and informed decision-making.
- Further research is warranted to optimize testing protocols and harm reduction strategies for AAS consumers.
