Steroids

What is The Extent of Illicit Anabolic Steroid Use in The U.S?

Published

6 years ago

February 3, 2019

Paul

Anabolic Steroids:

Anabolic Steroids substances include male sex dihydrotestosterone and testosterone-hormone. These androgynous hormones promote potent sexual properties development such as voice deepening and growth of beard or other males associated characteristics. These anabolic steroids substances also stimulate additional tissues development, particularly muscle and bone mass, and production of RBCs.

These substances medically used to treat various disorders such as delayed puberty, hypogonadism, osteoporosis, and endometriosis, and other problems that result due to hormonal imbalances.

Anabolic Steroids Prohibition in Sports:

Anabolic steroids that include, for example, Oxandrolone, testosterone, Danabol, and Methyltestosterone agents are used by athletes to enhance performance by increasing muscle mass. The U.S. has prohibited the use of these substances due to their potential for developing adverse side-effects.

The U.S. Agency of Anti-Doping or USADA and Anti-Doping World Agency or WADA and International Committee of Olympic or IOC and National Association Collegiate Athletic or NCAA have included these substances in prohibited-substances lists.

In U.S.A The Limit of Illicit Steroids Use:

In the country of the USA, the street purchase and illegal use of these anabolic steroids substances are risky. Illicit steroids sold at sporting competitions, gyms or through the mail-order process. However, the products may be contaminated or altered products. Records show that these illicit steroid substances that smuggle from other countries or these illegally taken from pharmacies and manufactured in backside laboratories. Street names of these anabolic steroids are Juice, Pumpers, Gym candy, Roids, Andro, and Stackers.

Read More: Where Steroids Are Legal

Anabolic Steroids Abuses:

There is less statistical data available on steroids abuse as; usually, the drug abuse surveys have not included steroids. The scientific evidence from the NIDA institute indicated only ten percent abuse chances among athletes. In the 2017 school Survey, high professionals reported that people do not have an accurate perception of steroids harms. Through laboratory testing, anabolic steroids presence can detect, and athletes monitored for competitions to check drugs usage and dependence.

Side Effects of Anabolic Steroids:

Anabolic steroids use alters body’s healthy balance of hormonal production. Some effects are reversible while some persist such as deepened voice and breast enlargement etc.

Side effects include severe acne, hair loss, liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, mood swings, high BP, gynecomastia, shrinking testicles, azoospermia, menstrual irregularities, infertility, and bacterial infections.

Anabolic Steroids are Addictive

Users become psychologically and physically dependent. Drug-dependent behavior results due to extended drug use while physical withdrawal problems such as fatigue, mood swings, appetite loss, restlessness, insomnia, steroid cravings, and less sex drive are the consequences. Severe withdrawal issues may cause a high depression level, and even the person can suicide due to high mental pressure. The conditions may persist even after one year of drug stoppage.

Through proper treatments and recovery cycles interventions, anabolic addiction, and anabolic impacts can manage. Antidepressants and analgesics, and behavioral therapies suggest for recovery purposes.

Combat With Anabolic Steroids Use and Abuse:

To limit the use of anabolic steroids, the focus is on educational efforts to promote awareness about steroid abuse. The programs initiated by NIDA such as The ATLAS or Adolescents Learning and Training for Steroids Avoidance, and the ATHENA program or Athletes Targeted Healthy Nutrition and Exercise Alternatives programs. The Health and Science, Oregon University programs, are the focus on teaching athletes about natural bodybuilding.

The programs are about nutrition alternatives and weight-training, healthy behaviors, steroids avoidance, and avoidance of alcoholic use.

Major Steroids Addiction in US Society:

Athletes take high steroids’ doses that lead to health disorders. The increasing use of these substances is a threat to public health. Also, it is essential to quantify the prevalence of Anabolic Steroids use. There are fewer data available on AAS prevalence and use, and these substances have been least studied because these are said as newly introduced substances. However, athletes started to use AAS during the 1950s, and the use increased after 1980s in the US.

The age distribution pattern of Anabolic Steroids users showed that youth is the significant addition or user of steroids since the 1980s. There has been observed a continuous increase in AAS users; however, sparse data has complicated the more accurate prevalence estimations. It requires methodological surveys to access the AAS users and to find the extent of AAS use. Moreover, people hesitate to talk about their steroid experience.

Research evidence

The comparative analyses of AAS users consider in the US context. As the US country is most famous for AAS use, and there are the AAS users in the most significant numbers. The illicit use of anabolic steroids in the US arose before other countries as American culture valued particularly-shaped man figure. U.S movies, dramas, and fitness magazines promoted heroes with bulky and muscular bodies. The US population has the most significant proportion of anabolic steroid users. There have been least surveys conducted on AAS since 1994.

A study revealed that Americans with age group of 13–50 were 108.5 million users that increased to 103.6–113.5 million during 1990–2011.

During the Youth-survey 1991, the data gathered from America’s High-schools revealed that AAS use was every day among 1o^th to 12^th graders. Mathematical models predicted that currently, more than 4.0 M American population depends on AAS.

MTF data shows that young adults of age group 19–28 were AAS users cover 3.1 million of Americans since 1989 to 2011and there was a steady increase in AAS users, while the age group of 19–22 were 3.7 M Americans who were AAS users from 1993 to 2001data estimates. The 2001 survey reported 1.05% lifetime prevalence, and the lifetime steroid prevalence in the US is 2–3 times higher than that was in 1994.

Research studies by Pope et al., and Malone et al., revealed that 2.9 to 4.0M Americans had used anabolic steroids and 1 million among them developed AAS dependence.

Interesting Facts:

Fewer data generate on these aspects because youngsters use this during their 20s time-age and parents don't observe them. Usually, the AAS discussed for athletes, while the vast majority does not belong to competitive athletes groups. Moreover, AAS users did not consult with physicians as the study determined that AAS users about 56% never disclosed about AAS use and the emergence of disorders.
Steroidal supplements modified into testosterone compounds. Steroidal dietary supplements, for example, tetrahydrogestrinone and androstenedione, from food stores without prescription, but their use, now forbidden and illegal after Steroid Control 2004 amendment Act.
Anti-Doping, we also prohibit 3-Dehydroepiandrosterone or (DHEA), but it is legally available. As these agents have fewer effects on performance-enhancement and other detrimental side-effects.

Concluding Notes:

AAS users are still a group of youngsters who rarely develop medical problems of clinical importance; therefore, AAS dependence has remained unnoticed for the most time.
The long-term use of anabolic steroids results in coronary atherosclerosis. Myocardial dysfunction that shows the under-recognized problem of secret steroid use.
Majority of users are recreational weightlifters as compared to competitive athletes who may develop coronary artery and LV dysfunction diseases.

Must Read: What is being done to combat Anabolic Steroids abuse?

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Steroids

Creatine vs Myostatin: An Expert’s Analysis

Published

1 week ago

March 20, 2025

Sane

Myostatin, a protein encoded by the MSTN gene, acts as a regulator of muscle growth. High levels of myostatin limit the body's ability to build muscle, effectively putting a cap on potential hypertrophy. Inhibiting myostatin has become a focal point for bodybuilders looking to break through plateaus and achieve significant muscle gains. The question is: can creatine, a popular and widely available supplement, help in this regard?

Medical History of Myostatin and Creatine

Myostatin and creatine, while popular now in the bodybuilding world, have their roots in entirely different contexts:

Myostatin: Natural Muscle Growth Regulator

Myostatin is a protein originally identified for its role in regulating skeletal muscle mass. In nature, it serves an evolutionary purpose: by limiting muscle growth, it conserves energy, ensuring that animals (and humans) don’t expend unnecessary resources maintaining excessive muscle tissue. This was especially important in the wild, where energy efficiency could mean the difference between survival and extinction.

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In the medical field, research into myostatin has focused on its role in muscle-wasting diseases. Scientists are exploring ways to inhibit myostatin to treat conditions like muscular dystrophy, where excessive muscle loss impairs quality of life. This therapeutic potential is where the idea of myostatin inhibition first began—long before bodybuilders latched onto the concept.

Creatine: Energy and Medical Applications

Creatine was originally studied for its role in energy metabolism. It’s a naturally occurring compound stored in muscle cells and plays a critical part in replenishing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency during short, high-intensity activities.

Before becoming a bodybuilding staple, creatine gained recognition in medical and sports science for its ability to improve athletic performance and assist with recovery. Furthermore, in medicine, creatine was investigated for neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and muscular dystrophy, given its potential to improve muscle function and brain energy metabolism.

In the sports world, it was initially adopted by sprinters and weightlifters in the 1970s and 1980s for its energy-enhancing benefits.

Both myostatin and creatine have found new life in bodybuilding circles, demonstrating how discoveries in natural physiology and medical science can lead to transformative applications in fitness.

Benefits of Creatine as a Myostatin Inhibitor

Muscle Growth Potential: Research suggests that creatine, when paired with intense resistance training, may inhibit myostatin to a degree, fostering an environment for enhanced muscle growth.

Improved Exercise Performance: Creatine is well-known for its ability to increase ATP production, translating to better performance during high-intensity activities.

Versatility Across Fitness Levels

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, creatine offers benefits that complement various stages of muscle-building.

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Affordability and Accessibility

Compared to specialized myostatin inhibitors like YK-11 and ACE-031, creatine is significantly more affordable and accessible.

Side Effects of Creatine

While generally safe for most individuals, creatine supplementation does come with some potential side effects:

Water Retention: Some users experience bloating due to increased water retention in muscle cells.

Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses may lead to stomach upset or diarrhea.

Kidney Concerns: Although rare, prolonged excessive use could strain the kidneys, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions.

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Alternatives to Creatine for Myostatin Inhibition

YK-11: A synthetic myostatin inhibitor derived from SARMs, offering more potent results but accompanied by more significant risks.

ACE-031: A peptide that directly inhibits myostatin, though it remains in experimental phases and is not legally approved in many regions.

Natural Alternatives

Follistatin-rich Foods: Eggs and dairy products may have natural myostatin-inhibiting properties.

Resistance Training: Intense and consistent weightlifting alone can naturally lower myostatin levels.

Where to Buy Creatine

Creatine is readily available worldwide. It can be purchased from:

Local Pharmacies and Nutrition Stores: Ideal for trusted and immediate access.

Online Platforms: Websites like Amazon, iHerb, or bodybuilding-specific stores offer a variety of brands and formulations.

Supplement Brands: Well-established brands such as Optimum Nutrition, MyProtein, and Cellucor often carry high-quality creatine.

Legality of Myostatin Inhibitors

Creatine: Creatine is completely legal and widely accepted as a dietary supplement.

YK-11 and ACE-031: These compounds exist in a legal gray area in many countries due to their experimental nature and potential risks. It's essential to research local laws before considering these options.

Best Stores and Suppliers

For reputable products, consider:

Transparent Labs: Known for purity and transparent labeling.

Optimum Nutrition: Offers pharmaceutical-grade creatine monohydrate.

Bulk Supplements: A great choice for bulk buyers seeking affordability and quality.

Our Advice to Bodybuilders

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are already using AAS or other advanced compounds.

Prioritize a balanced diet and consistent exercise routine. Supplements like creatine work best as part of a holistic approach to fitness.

Stay hydrated while using creatine to minimize water retention side effects and support kidney health.

Related Article: Best Syringes for Steroid Injection on Amazon

Overall

While creatine may not be as potent a myostatin inhibitor as advanced compounds like YK-11 or ACE-031, its affordability, safety, and accessibility make it a valuable addition to any bodybuilder's supplement stack. By leveraging its benefits alongside proper training and nutrition, you can maximize muscle growth and overcome plateaus, regardless of your fitness level.

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Raloxifene (Evista) 101: A Non-Surgical Solution for Gyno

Published

2 weeks ago

March 11, 2025

Sane

Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), is one of the most valuable yet less common options available today. Originally developed to prevent and treat breast cancer similar to Tamoxifen, it has gained popularity among bodybuilders seeking to prevent or eliminate gyno.

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Unlike Tamoxifen, Raloxifene is potent enough to reduce long-standing gynecomastia and is frequently used to reverse pubertal gynecomastia. While it can also boost testosterone levels, it is one of the weaker SERMs in this regard.

How it Works

Raloxifene functions by blocking estrogen receptors in the breasts, which helps prevent or treat both gynecomastia and breast cancer. Additionally, it blocks estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, stimulating testosterone production.

Beyond these primary benefits, Raloxifene can enhance bone mass, combat osteoporosis, and lower cholesterol levels.

Potential Side Effects

While Raloxifene is considered a generally safe and effective medication, like all drugs, it comes with its own set of potential side effects. One of the most notable is the reduction in Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. IGF-1 plays a key role in muscle growth and repair, so decreased levels could potentially impact athletic performance or recovery.

However, compared to other medications in its class, Raloxifene has a relatively low risk of causing severe liver toxicity. Users are less likely to experience harmful effects such as blood clots, mood swings, or sexual dysfunction, making it a preferable choice for many.

While rare, some users might experience less serious side effects such as hot flashes, leg cramps, or flu-like symptoms. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to monitor any adverse reactions and ensure the medication is being used safely.

So, despite its efficacy, Raloxifene is not without side effects, but they are typically manageable and less severe compared to other SERMs.

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For gyno reversal, the typical protocol involves taking 60mg daily for 1-2 weeks, followed by 30mg daily for up to 3 months or until the condition resolves.

Typical Protocol

For gynecomastia reversal, the typical protocol involves taking 60mg of Raloxifene per day for 1-2 weeks, followed by a reduced dose of 30mg per day for up to 3 months or until the gynecomastia is resolved. In post-cycle therapy (PCT), bodybuilders generally take 60mg per day for 4-6 weeks, and then lower the dose to 30mg per day during the last week. Raloxifene is highly effective for managing gynecomastia and supporting post-cycle recovery, making it a valuable addition to a well-optimized bodybuilding regimen.

Overall

Raloxifene (Evista) is a versatile SERM used to treat breast cancer and is popular among bodybuilders for managing gynecomastia (gyno). Unlike Tamoxifen, it effectively shrinks long-standing gyno and reverses pubertal gyno. It blocks estrogen receptors in the breast and hypothalamus, thus preventing gyno and promoting Testosterone secretion. Additionally, it improves bone mass, combats osteoporosis, and lowers cholesterol levels. For gyno, take 60mg/day for 1-2 weeks, then 30mg/day for up to 3 months. For post-cycle therapy (PCT), take 60mg/day for 4-6 weeks, then reduce to 30mg/day during the final week. This safe and effective medication has minimal side effects.

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Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

4 weeks ago

March 1, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle that requires dedication, discipline, and a thorough understanding of fitness principles. As the world of fitness continues to evolve, bodybuilders must stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and scientific advancements to achieve their goals. In 2025, several innovative approaches are redefining bodybuilding. Here are essential fitness tips for bodybuilders to excel this year.

Embrace Technology-Driven Workouts

In 2025, technology plays a significant role in bodybuilding. Wearable devices, fitness apps, and virtual reality (VR) training are now integral components of an effective workout regimen.

Wearable Devices

Modern wearables track everything from heart rate and sleep patterns to muscle activation and caloric expenditure. Utilize these devices to monitor your progress and make data-driven adjustments to your training and nutrition plans.

Fitness Apps

Leverage fitness apps for customized workout plans, progress tracking, and virtual coaching. Many apps now incorporate artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations.

Virtual Reality Training

VR technology offers immersive workout experiences, allowing bodybuilders to simulate different training environments and scenarios. This can enhance motivation and add variety to your routine.

Focus on Functional Strength

While hypertrophy (muscle growth) remains a primary goal, functional strength is gaining importance. Functional strength training improves overall performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances daily activities.

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Compound Movements

Incorporate compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These movements engage multiple muscle groups and joints, promoting balanced strength development.

Core Stability

Prioritize exercises that strengthen the core, such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. A strong core supports better lifting mechanics and reduces the risk of lower back injuries.

Optimize Nutrition for Muscle Growth and Recovery

Nutrition is the cornerstone of successful bodybuilding. In 2025, the focus is on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual needs and goals.

Protein Intake

Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair and growth. Aim for 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on your training intensity and goals.

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Nutrient Timing

Pay attention to nutrient timing to maximize muscle recovery and growth. Consume protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes post-workout to replenish glycogen stores and kickstart muscle repair.

Supplements

Utilize supplements wisely. Creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and omega-3 fatty acids are popular choices for enhancing performance and recovery.

Prioritize Mental Health and Mindfulness

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall fitness. Incorporating mindfulness practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance performance.

Meditation

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can enhance your mind-muscle connection during workouts.

Visualization

Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse your workouts. Visualizing successful lifts and achieving your goals can boost confidence and motivation.

Rest and Recovery

Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and overtraining. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and incorporate rest days into your training schedule.

Leverage Advanced Training Techniques

Advanced training techniques can help break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth. In 2025, several methods are gaining popularity among bodybuilders.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: BFR involves restricting blood flow to the muscles during low-intensity exercises. This technique can enhance muscle growth and strength without the need for heavy weights.

Eccentric Training: Focus on the eccentric (lowering) phase of exercises. Eccentric training can stimulate greater muscle damage and growth compared to traditional concentric movements.

Periodization: Implement periodization into your training plan. Varying the intensity, volume, and type of exercises can prevent plateaus and ensure continuous progress.

Incorporate Recovery and Mobility Work

Recovery and mobility are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining optimal performance. In 2025, bodybuilders are paying more attention to these aspects of training.

Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release: Use foam rollers and massage balls to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular myofascial release can reduce soreness and enhance recovery.

Stretching: Incorporate dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching after workouts. Stretching improves range of motion and prevents muscle imbalances.

Cryotherapy and Hydrotherapy: Explore recovery techniques like cryotherapy (cold therapy) and hydrotherapy (water therapy) to reduce inflammation and accelerate muscle recovery.

Engage in Continuous Learning and Community Building

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for success. Engage in continuous learning and connect with the bodybuilding community for support and motivation.

Educational Resources: Read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to stay updated on the latest research and trends in bodybuilding.

Community Engagement: Join online forums, social media groups, and local bodybuilding clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge with fellow bodybuilders can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Professional Guidance: Consider working with a certified personal trainer or coach. Professional guidance can help you optimize your training and nutrition plans, ensuring you're on the right track.

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Conclusion

In 2025, bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it's a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses technology, nutrition, mental health, and advanced training techniques. By embracing these fitness tips, bodybuilders can achieve their goals, stay injury-free, and enjoy a fulfilling fitness journey. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in bodybuilding. Stay committed, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.