Most commonly (ab)used AAS, marketed to increase appetite and muscle mass and in livestock. FinajetTM / FinaplixTM
Trenbolone
AAS are structurally similar to what hormone?
Testosterone
Decrease of natriuretic proteins, increase in fluid retention, and thickening of cardiac / blood vessel walls.
Hypertension
Inhibition of impulse control and aggression response centres within the brain
Increased aggression
AAS currently approved for treatment of anaemias, HIV/AIDS, and cachexia. AnadrolTM / AnapolonTM
Oxymethalone
Which receptors do most AAS act on?
Androgen receptors
Excess testosterone is converted into oestrogen which binds to receptors within the chest / breast tissue.
Gynecomastia
Insecurity in physical appearance, aiming to "match" an idealised sense of appearance or those around you.
Body dysmorphia
Oral AAS that impacts mainly on protein synthesis and glycogenolysis instead of on the androgen receptor. DianabolTM
Methandrostenalone
What is the impact of AAS on androgenic receptors?
Upregulation and increased number.
Secondary hypogonadism, leading to reduced secretion of gonadotrophin and sperm cell production.
Testicular Atrophy
Frequent hormonal imbalances between testosterone and oestrogen, causing fluctuation of other hormones and neurotransmitters.
Mood Swings
Synthetic testosterone that may be used to treat forms of anaemia, osteoporosis, and some forms of metabolic syndrome. Deca-durabolinTM
Nandrolone
What are some metabolic processes increased with use of AAS? (2/3)
Protein synthesis, glycogenolysis, overall BMR
Increased production of hepatic triglyceride lipase to decrease HDL and hypercortisolism to increase LDL/VLDL.
Hyperlipidaemia
Related to mood swings and inhibition of impulse control. Increased sense of confidence from both internal and external factors, in addition to the belief on increased cardio "work out".
Increased libido
"Cutting cycle" oral AAS approved for treatment of hereditary angioedaema and veterinary uses. WinstrolTM / TevabolinTM
Stanozolone
How does the over-action on androgenic receptors increase muscle and body mass?
Increases genetic proteogenesis via increased transcription and translation.
Transient serum enzyme elevations, vascular damage, acute cholestatic syndrome, and unregulated growth stimulus to hepatocytes.
Hepatotoxicity
Severe consequence of altered brain chemistry thought to be connected to extreme confidence and lack of impulse-control. A detachment from reality.
Hallucinations and delusions / "self-induced psychosis"