Now May Be The Time To Say This

[hurricane]

anything that messes with your heart is no joke period.. heart disease is the leading cause of death in this county .. nuff said

 

[Tatyana]

I am sure there are tons of guys who took tons more clen for a lot longer than guardian did.
problem lies in the fact no one really knows if they have a congenital problem. Th best you can do is get consistant reliable blood work done before, during and after cycles

it amazes me guys will spend umpteen thousand dollars on a cycle but wont spend 3-500 bucks to get 3 blood test done to monitor health

A blood test is not going to detect a possible cardiac event, nor will it detect a congenital abnormality, and they are far more common than most people would thing.

Even the heart specific muscle markers troponin-T and
troponin-I don't won't predict a heart attack unless you have one once a month, have ECGs and scans, and even then..................


You still need blood tests to make sure you are ok, but don't kid yourself that that is going to protect you from everything.





Some of you lads are in denial.


There are no safe drugs, none.

Even a herbal rememdy can kill someone.

I got into BBing as I thought I had found a really healthy pursuit and health minded community.

It was about 50 years ago when it started.

Now I see people stating in posts that BBing is not a healthy pursuit, you HAVE to take steroids and other drugs to cut/diet, get anywhere in BBing.

It sickens me, and really makes me sad at times, it really does.

I have had a BBer I know (often more than one), die every year I have been BBing. Of course you could say 'It wasn't the drugs it was X', but if you don't think that steroids or the other performance enhancing drugs were a contributing factor, you are in denial.


So many people start taking so many drugs in odd combinations in vastly too large amounts before they have barely developed their body or even know what they are doing.


I just get really concerned about what the quality of life is going to be like for some people as they get older, if they do.

Just be safe.








It is possible to create a great physique naturally.

Some of you are just lazy twonks. I had to say that.

 

[vne220]

It is possible to create a great physique naturally.

Some of you are just lazy twonks. I had to say that.

Yup....If anything I have learned:

Proper diet

Proper lifting

Proper rest

Proper information and well rounded knowledge of the endocrine system

........and then, only then, just maybe AAS. The thing I have benefited most from BBing is learning how to live healthier, not live harder.

 

[Wulfgar]

I wasnt really referring to a heart attack in general
But for general health and well being
it is simple enough logic to reason if your hormone and cardiovascular numbers are all within normal ranges you have a much better chance of not doing serious damage on a intense BBing aas cycle
ive mapped out the things i have checked before and as a precaution I think it is smart

there are risks to ANYTHING in life. Anyone of us could walk outside and get killed in any number of ways. The best bet is to at least make educated decisions and weigh the risk to benefit so as to minimize any negative impact on health if you choose the AAS route.


I remember at the gym I worked at in the past a guy died late at night because he was in the gym by himself bench pressing and the bar slipped out of his hands when he was taking it out of the rack and he crushed his neck. And he was ALL NATURAL. he was only using like 135 too.

 

[Tatyana]

anything that messes with your heart is no joke period.. heart disease is the leading cause of death in this county .. nuff said

I did a quick search yesterday, I didn't actually take all of the clen related case studies of acute cardiac events, there were a few.

Yes, anything that messes with your heart is no joke.

Accession number & update
02708728 Medline R 20080624.
Title
Dietary influences on cardiovascular disease risk in anabolic steroid- using and nonusing bodybuilders.
Source
Journal of the American College of Nutrition, {J-Am-Coll-Nutr}, Apr 1989, vol. 8, no. 2, p. 109-19, ISSN: 0731-5724.
Author(s)
Kleiner-S-M, Calabrese-L-H, Fiedler-K-M, Naito-H-K, Skibinski-C-I.
Author affiliation
Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland.
Corporate author(s)
.
Abstract
Recent studies have described an association between high-risk lipoprotein profiles and anabolic steroid abuse by athletes. However, none have included a comprehensive evaluation of diet as a confounding variable. The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its associations with drug abuse, dietary patterns, and training regimens were evaluated in 18 steroid-using (SU) and 17 non-steroid-using (NSU; no history of drug use or greater than or equal to 1 year drug-free) male bodybuilders. CVD risk was also evaluated in 10 control males. Fasting serum total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and HDL subfractions 2 and 3, low-density (LDL) and very-low-density (VLDL) lipoprotein cholesterol, apoproteins (APO) A-1 and B, and triglycerides (TG) were analyzed at baseline (greater than or equal to 6 months drug-free) and the peak of steroid self-administration in SU. NSU were tested at similar times. Baseline CVD risk factor ratios (TC/HDL) were elevated (greater than 4.97) in 44% of SU and 24% of NSU. When baseline LDL and HDL values were compared to National Cholesterol Education Program CVD risk guidelines, these percentages stayed the same. At the peak of steroid administration significant changes were observed in LDL (22% increase), HDL (63% decrease), HDL-2 (86% decrease), HDL-3 (54% decrease), and TC/HDL (85% increase). No similar measures were observed among NSU or controls. Diets of all bodybuilders were similar, and included a daily intake of 5739 (+/- 2500) kcal, 324 (+/- 163) g protein, 637 (+/- 259) g carbohydrate, 214 (+/- 109) g fat, 5 (+/- 8) g alcohol, 1413 (+/-1151) mg cholesterol, and a P/S ratio of 0.6 (+/- 0.3). Significant relationships between dietary fats and serum lipids were observed in the NSU. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were correlated with TG and VLDL (r = 0.69; p = 0.01), and TC/HDL (r = 0.06; p = 0.04). Total fats were correlated with TG (r = 0.57; p = 0.05), HDL-3 (r = -0.62; p = 0.04), and VLDL (r = 0.57; p = 0.05), and saturated fats with HDL-3 (r = -0.59; p = 0.055). Diet was moderately associated with lipoproteins in SU, but steroids had a much greater influence on CVD risk. Despite disease promoting diets NSU had relatively average CVD risk that may be attributed to protective effects of rigorous training.


Accession number & update
07974982 Medline R 20080128.
Title
The Gordon Wilson Lecture. Regulation of thromboxane A2 receptors by testosterone: implications for steroid abuse and cardiovascular disease.
Source
Transactions of the American Clinical and Climatological Association, {Trans-Am-Clin-Climatol-Assoc}, 1994, vol. 105, p. 95-103, ISSN: 0065-7778.
Author(s)
Halushka-P-V, Masuda-A, Matsuda-K.
Author affiliation
Second Department of Internal Medicine, Sapporo Medical College, Japan.
Abstract
Thromboxane A2 (TXA2), a platelet aggregator and vasoconstrictor, has been implicated as a potential pathophysiologic mediator of a wide variety of cardiovascular diseases. It is well established that men are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease compared to premenopausal females. Abuse of androgenic/anabolic steroids has been associated with thrombotic cardiovascular diseases in young male athletes. These observations along with several others have led to the hypothesis that testosterone may regulate the expression of TXA2 receptors. Rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMC) and human erythroleukemia cells (HEL), a megakaryocyte-like cell, were incubated with testosterone. TXA2 receptor affinity (Kd) and density (Bmax) were determined via equilibrium binding experiments using the radiolabeled TXA2 mimetic (125I)-BOP. Testosterone significantly increased the Bmax without any significant change in Kd. Hydroxyflutamide (1 microM), an androgen receptor antagonist, completely blocked the effect of testosterone. Dihydrotestosterone, the active metabolite of testosterone also increased Bmax in a concentration-dependent manner and was more potent than testosterone. These observations along with several others are consistent with the notion that androgenic steroids may regulate the expression of functional TXA2 receptors in HEL and RASMC. These results raise the possibility that the increase in TXA2 receptor density induced by testosterone may contribute to its thrombotic potential in cardiovascular diseases.
Grant ID: HL36838, Acronym: HL, Agency: United States NHLBI.

Accession number & update
17549658 Medline 20070701.
Title
Cardiac tissue Doppler in steroid users.
Source
International journal of sports medicine, {Int-J-Sports-Med}, Aug 2007 (epub: 01 Jun 2007), vol. 28, no. 8, p. 638-43, ISSN: 0172-4622.
Author(s)
Krieg-A, Scharhag-J, Albers-T, Kindermann-W, Urhausen-A.
Author affiliation
Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, University of Saarland, Saarbruecken, Germany. [email protected].
Abstract
Anabolic steroids cause a variety of side effects, among them a slight concentric left ventricular hypertrophy. The objective of the present study was to clarify if they also induce alterations in left ventricular function. 14 male body builders with substantial intake of anabolic steroids (users) were examined by standard echocardiography and cardiac tissue Doppler imaging. They were compared to 11 steroid- free strength athletes (non-users) and 15 sedentary control subjects. Users showed an increased left ventricular muscle mass index. The ratio of peak transmitral blood flow velocities during early diastolic filling and atrial contraction did not differ between groups (users: 1.4 +/- 0.3; non-users: 1.7 +/- 0.5; controls: 1.4 +/- 0.4). In contrast an analogous tissue Doppler parameter, the ratio of myocardial velocities during early and late ventricular filling in the basal septum, was significantly lower in users (1.2 +/- 0.4) when compared to non-users (1.6 +/- 0.5) or controls (1.6 +/- 0.6). The velocity gradient during myocardial E-wave in the posterior wall showed significantly lower values in users (3.8 +/- 1.3 1/s) as compared to controls (5.8 +/- 2.5 1/s). There were no differences in systolic function. Summarizing strength athletes abusing anabolic steroids show negative alterations in diastolic function.

Accession number & update
17349798 Medline 20070401.
Title
Doping with growth hormone/IGF-1, anabolic steroids or erythropoietin: is there a cancer risk?
Source
Pharmacological research : the official journal of the Italian Pharmacological Society, {Pharmacol-Res}, May 2007 (epub: 03 Feb 2007) , vol. 55, no. 5, p. 359-69, 119 refs, ISSN: 1043-6618.
Author(s)
Tentori-Lucio, Graziani-Grazia.
Author affiliation
Department of Neuroscience, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy. [email protected].
Abstract
Anabolic steroid and peptide hormones or growth factors are utilized to increase the performance of athletes of professional or amateur sports. Despite their well-documented adverse effects, the use of some of these agents has significantly grown and has been extended also to non-athletes with the aim to improve appearance or to counteract ageing. Pre-clinical studies and epidemiological observations in patients with an excess of hormone production or in patients chronically treated with hormones/growth factors for various pathologies have warned about the potential risk of cancer development and progression which may be also associated to the use of certain doping agents. Anabolic steroids have been described to provoke liver tumours; growth hormone or high levels of its mediator insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) have been associated with colon, breast, and prostate cancers. Actually, IGF-1 promotes cell cycle progression and inhibits apoptosis either by triggering other growth factors or by interacting with pathways which have an established role in carcinogenesis and cancer promotion. More recently, the finding that erythropoietin (Epo) may promote angiogenesis and inhibit apoptosis or modulate chemo- or radiosensitivity in cancer cells expressing the Epo receptor, raised the concern that the use of recombinant Epo to increase tissue oxygenation might favour tumour survival and aggressiveness. Cancer risk associated to doping might be higher than that of patients using hormones/growth factors as replacement therapy, since enormous doses are taken by the athletes often for a long period of time. Moreover, these substances are often used in combination with other licit or illicit drugs and this renders almost unpredictable all the possible adverse effects including cancer. Anyway, athletes should be made aware that long-term treatment with doping agents might increase the risk of developing cancer.

Accession number & update
17085981 Medline 20061101.
Title
Coronary calcification in body builders using anabolic steroids.
Source
Preventive cardiology, {Prev-Cardiol}, Fall 2006, vol. 9, no. 4, p. 198-201, ISSN: 1520-037X.
Author(s)
Santora-Lawrence-J, Marin-Jairo, Vangrow-Jack, Minegar-Craig, Robinson-Mary, Mora-Janet, Friede-Gerald.
Author affiliation
Orange County Heart Institute and Research Center, Orange, CA 92668, USA. [email protected].
Abstract
The authors measured coronary artery calcification as a means of examining the impact of anabolic steroids on the development of atherosclerotic disease in body builders using anabolic steroids over an extended period of time. Fourteen male professional body builders with no history of cardiovascular disease were evaluated for coronary artery calcium, serum lipids, left ventricular function, and exercise-induced myocardial ischemia. Seven subjects had coronary artery calcium, with a much higher than expected mean score of 98. Six of the 7 calcium scores were >90th percentile. Mean total cholesterol was 192 mg/dL, while mean high-density lipoprotein was 23 mg/dL and the mean ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein was 8.3. Left ventricular ejection fraction ranged between 49% and 68%, with a mean of 59%. No subject had evidence of myocardial ischemia. This small group of professional body builders with a long history of steroid abuse had high levels of coronary artery calcium for age. The authors conclude that in this small pilot study there is an association between early coronary artery calcium and long-term steroid abuse. Large-scale studies are warranted to further explore this association.

Accession number & update
16292586 Medline 20070101.
Title
Sudden cardiac death during anabolic steroid abuse: morphologic and toxicologic findings in two fatal cases of bodybuilders.
Source
International journal of legal medicine, {Int-J-Legal-Med}, Jan 2007 (epub: 15 Nov 2005), vol. 121, no. 1, p. 48-53, 26 refs, ISSN: 0937-9827.
Author(s)
Fineschi-Vittorio, Riezzo-Irene, Centini-Fabio, Silingardi-Enrico, Licata-Manuela, Beduschi-Giovanni, Karch-Steven-B.
Author affiliation
Institute of Forensic Pathology, University of Foggia, Ospedali Riuniti, Foggia, Italy. [email protected].
Abstract
We report two cases of sudden cardiac death (SCD) involving previously healthy bodybuilders who were chronic androgenic-anabolic steroids users. In both instances, autopsies, histology of the organs, and toxicologic screening were performed. Our findings support an emerging consensus that the effects of vigorous weight training, combined with anabolic steroid use and increased androgen sensitivity, may predispose these young men to myocardial injury and even SCD.

Accession number & update
16364470 Medline R 20061101.
Title
Sudden anabolic steroid abuse-related death in athletes.
Source
International journal of cardiology, {Int-J-Cardiol}, 2 Jan 2007 (epub: 20 Dec 2005), vol. 114, no. 1, p. 114-7, ISSN: 1874-1754

Accession number & update
16888459 Medline 20060801.
Title
Testosterone prohormone supplements.
Source
Medicine and science in sports and exercise, {Med-Sci-Sports-Exerc}, Aug 2006, vol. 38, no. 8, p. 1451-61, 72 refs, ISSN: 0195-9131.
Author(s)
Brown-Gregory-A, Vukovich-Matthew, King-Douglas-S.
Author affiliation
Human Performance Laboratory, University of Nebraska at Kearney, HPERLS Department, Kearney, NE, USA.
Abstract
Testosterone prohormones such as androstenedione, androstenediol, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) have been heavily marketed as testosterone-enhancing and muscle-building nutritional supplements for the past decade. Concerns over the safety of prohormone supplement use prompted the United States Food and Drug Administration to call for a ban on androstenedione sales, and Congress passed the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004, which classifies androstenedione and 17 other steroids as controlled substances. As of January 2005, these substances cannot be sold without prescription. Here, we summarize the current scientific knowledge regarding the efficacy and safety of prohormone supplementation in humans. We focus primarily on androstenedione, but we also discuss DHEA, androstenediol, 19-nor androstenedione, and 19-nor androstenediol supplements. Contrary to marketing claims, research to date indicates that the use of prohormone nutritional supplements (DHEA, androstenedione, androstenediol, and other steroid hormone supplements) does not produce either anabolic or ergogenic effects in men. Moreover, the use of prohormone nutritional supplements may raise the risk for negative health consequences.

Accession number & update
16796605 Medline 20060601.
Title
Impaired vasoreactivity in bodybuilders using androgenic anabolic steroids.
Source
European journal of clinical investigation, {Eur-J-Clin-Invest}, Jul 2006, vol. 36, no. 7, p. 483-8, ISSN: 0014-2972.
Author(s)
Lane-H-A, Grace-F, Smith-J-C, Morris-K, Cockcroft-J, Scanlon-M-F, Davies-J-S.
Author affiliation
Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XW, Wales, UK. [email protected].
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Anabolic androgenic steroids are used by some bodybuilders to enhance performance. While the cardiovascular implications of supraphysiological androgen levels requires further clarification, use is associated with sudden death, left ventricular hypertrophy, thrombo-embolism and cerebro-vascular events. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To further understand the effect of androgenic anabolic steroid abuse on vascular function, this study assessed vascular stiffness (pulse-wave analysis) and cardiovascular risk factors in 28 male, bodybuilding subjects, of whom ten were actively receiving anabolic agents (group A; 26.4 +/- 7.2 years) and eight had undergone a 3-month wash-out period (group B; 32.1 +/- 7.1 years). The remaining ten bodybuilding subjects (group C; 24.4 +/- 4.4 years) denied any past use of anabolic steroids or other performance enhancing drugs. Comparisons were made with ten sedentary male controls (group D, 29.3 +/- 4.7 years). RESULTS: Endothelial independent dilatation in response to glycerol trinitrate was significantly impaired in the group currently using anabolic steroids (group A) compared with the other three groups (A (5.63 +/- 3.24%) versus; B (11.10 +/- 4.91%), C (17.88 +/- 9.2%) and D (14.46 +/- 3.9%), P < 0.0005, respectively), whereas no significant differences in endothelial-dependent dilatation were detected between the groups (A (5.0 +/- 3.0%), B (7.4 +/- 3.4%), C (9.6 +/- 4.5%) and D (8.2 +/- 3.3%), P < 0.059, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Previous studies described a decline in vascular reactivity occurring in bodybuilding subjects which is independent of anabolic steroid use and may result from smooth muscle hypertrophy with increased vascular stiffness. This study revealed impaired vascular reactivity associated with anabolic agents and that improvement in vascular function may occur following their discontinuation.
Accession number & update
16597224 Medline 20060401.
Title
Pursuit of muscularity in adolescent boys: relations among biopsychosocial variables and clinical outcomes.
Source
Journal of clinical child and adolescent psychology : the official journal for the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology American Psychological Association Division 53, {J-Clin-Child-Adolesc-Psychol}, Jun 2006, vol. 35, no. 2, p. 283-91, ISSN: 1537-4416.
Author(s)
Cafri-Guy, van-den-Berg-Patricia, Thompson-J-Kevin.
Author affiliation
Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA. [email protected].
Abstract
Adolescent boys (n = 269) were assessed for levels of several risky behaviors related to the pursuit of muscularity, including substance use (anabolic steroids, prohormones, and ephedrine) dieting to gain weight, and symptoms of muscle dysmorphia (MD). The association between these behaviors and a variety of putative biological, psychological, and social risk factors were also evaluated. Concerning rates for lifetime use of steroids (2.6%), prohormones (4.5%), and ephedrine (6%) were found. Multiple regression analyses indicated that MD and sports participation significantly predicted substance use. Body dissatisfaction and body mass index were significant predictors of dieting to gain weight. Additionally, negative affect, media influence, and sports participation predicted symptoms of MD.

Accession number & update
16529682 Medline 20060301.
Title
The effect of anabolic steroids on the gastrointestinal system, kidneys, and adrenal glands.
Source
Current sports medicine reports, {Curr-Sports-Med-Rep}, Apr 2006, vol. 5, no. 2, p. 104-9, 24 refs, ISSN: 1537-8918.
Author(s)
Modlinski-Ryan, Fields-Karl-B.
Author affiliation
Moses Cone Family Medicine Residency, Greensboro, NC 27401, USA.
Abstract
Over the past several decades we have seen an increase in the prevalence of anabolic steroid use by athletes. Because use of anabolic steroids is illicit, much of our knowledge of their side effects is derived from case reports, retrospective studies, or comparisons with studies in other similar patient groups. It has been shown that high-dose anabolic steroids have an effect on lowering high-density lipoprotein, increasing low-density lipoprotein, and increasing the atherogenic-promoting apolipoprotein A. Steroid abuse can also be hepatotoxic, promoting disturbances such as biliary stasis, peliosis hepatis, and even hepatomas, which are all usually reversible upon discontinuation. Suppression of the hypothalamic adrenal axis can also lead to profound adrenal changes that are also reversible with time. Although rare, renal side effects have also been documented, leading to acute renal failure and even Wilms' tumors in isolated cases. Much of our knowledge of these potentially severe but usually limited side effects is confounded by use of combinations of different steroid preparations and by the concomitant use with other substances. Physicians must target their efforts at counseling adolescents and other athletes about the potential harms of androgenic anabolic steroids and the legal options to improve strength and performance.

Accession number & update
16516601 Medline R 20060301.
Title
Cardiovascular effects of androgenic anabolic steroids in male bodybuilders determined by tissue Doppler imaging.
Source
The American journal of cardiology, {Am-J-Cardiol}, 15 Mar 2006 (epub: 02 Feb 2006), vol. 97, no. 6, p. 912-5, ISSN: 0002-9149.
Author(s)
Nottin-Stéphane, Nguyen-Long-Dang, Terbah-Mohamed, Obert-Philippe.
Author affiliation
Laboratory of Cardiovascular Adaptations to Exercise, Faculty of Sciences, Avignon, France.
Abstract
The effects of anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) on left ventricular (LV) diastolic function in strength-trained athletes are controversial. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of regular AAS administration in bodybuilders using pulsed tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) to evaluate LV relaxation properties. Fifteen male bodybuilders with a history of intensive, long-term strength training and 16 age-matched sedentary controls were recruited. Six of the bodybuilders reported regular use of AASs, and 9 were drug free. To assess LV diastolic function, each subject underwent standard Doppler echocardiography and pulsed TDI. Drug-using bodybuilders exhibited altered LV diastolic filling characterized by a smaller contribution of passive filling to LV filling compared with their drug-free counterparts. TDI measurements indicated that drug-using bodybuilders had smaller peak E(m) than drug-free bodybuilders and sedentary controls, except at the level of the anterior wall, at which peak E(m) was significantly smaller than in drug-free bodybuilders only. The E/E(m) ratio, an index of LV filling pressures, was not affected by strength training or by AAS use. Drug-using bodybuilders exhibited larger LV end-diastolic diameters, volumes, and masses than their drug-free counterparts. However, no difference was found in LV wall thickness between the groups. In conclusion, drug-using bodybuilders showed a decrease in the contribution in LV passive filling to LV filling associated with a decrease in LV relaxation properties. Because no wall thickening was obtained in drug-using bodybuilders, the decrease in LV relaxation properties might have been be due to an alteration in the active properties of the myocardium, but that has yet to be confirmed.

Accession number & update
16432848 Medline R 20060101.
Title
Effects of oxandrolone, an anabolic steroid, on hemostasis.
Source
American journal of hematology, {Am-J-Hematol}, Feb 2006, vol. 81, no. 2, p. 95-100, ISSN: 0361-8609.
Author(s)
Kahn-Nighat-N, Sinha-Asru-K, Spungen-Ann-M, Bauman-William-A.
Author affiliation
Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA. [email protected].
Abstract
This study evaluated the short-term effects of oxandrolone, an anabolic androgenic synthetic steroid, on blood coagulation and the hemostatic/fibrinolytic system in healthy individuals. Subjects (n = 14) were administered oxandrolone (10 mg twice daily) for 14 days. Blood was obtained on days 0, 1, 3, 7, 9, 14, and then at day 42 (28 days after discontinuation of the drug). Samples were analyzed for the plasma plasminogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), fibrinogen, and coagulation factors (II, V, VII, VIII, and X). After 7 days of administration of oxandrolone, the plasma plasminogen level significantly increased (100% +/- 21% to 174% +/- 21% (P < 0.0001)). PAI-1 was significantly decreased at day 3 (16 +/- 9 to 7 +/- 4 mg/dL (P < 0.01)). Coagulation factors II and V significantly increased at day 14 (88 +/- 15 to 122 +/- 11 (P < 0.005) and 105 +/- 21 to 179 +/-36% (P < 0.0001)), respectively. Factor VII level decreased by day 3 (91% +/- 26% to 83% +/- 18%, NS), but after 14 days factor VII level returned to baseline (91% +/- 26% to 93% +/- 19%, NS). The increase of factor VIII level was not significant (111% +/- 64% to 125% +/- 55%, NS). Factor X increased steadily over 14 days of drug treatment (96% + /- 11% to 107% +/- 25%, NS) and after discontinuation, decreased and returned to baseline by day 42 (107% +/- 25% to 89% +/- 25%, NS). Fibrinogen decreased by 22% +/- 12%, (NS). Administration of oxandrolone, to healthy young men was associated with a significant increase in select blood coagulation factors and plasminogen. These changes create a state of potential hypercoagulability that appears to be counterbalanced by increased fibrinolytic activity to maintain homeostasis.
2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
MEDLINE - 1996 to date (MEDL)
Accession number & update
16253932 Medline R 20050101.
Title
Adolescent anabolic steroid use, gender, physical activity, and other problem behaviors*.
Source
Substance use & misuse, {Subst-Use-Misuse}, 2005, vol. 40, no. 11, p. 1637-57, ISSN: 1082-6084.
Author(s)
Miller-Kathleen-E, Hoffman-Joseph-H, Barnes-Grace-M, Sabo-Don, Melnick-Merrill-J, Farrell-Michael-P.
Author affiliation
Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA. [email protected].
Abstract
To test the comparative value of strain theory and problem behavior theory as explanations of adolescent anabolic steroid use, this study examined gender-specific relationships among steroid use, physical activity, and other problem behaviors. Based on the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 1997 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a nationally representative sample of over 16,000 U.S. public and private high school students, binge drinking, cocaine use, fighting, and sexual risk-taking were associated with higher odds of lifetime steroid use. In gender-specific analyses, steroid use was strongly associated with female fighting and smokeless tobacco use as well as male sexual risk. Neither athletic participation nor strength conditioning predicted odds of steroid use after controlling for problem behaviors, nor did steroid-using athletes report more frequent use than steroid-using nonathletes. The study's limitations and policy implications were noted. These data suggest that other problem behaviors such as substance use, fighting, and sexual risk are better predictors of adolescent steroid use than physical activity. Interventions to prevent steroid use should not be limited to male participants in organized sports programs, but should also target adolescents identified as at risk for other problem behaviors.
Grant ID: DA13570-01, Acronym: DA, Agency: United States NIDA.

Accession number & update
16127201 Medline 20050101.
Title
Myocardial infarction in a 17-year-old body builder using clenbuterol.
Source
Circulation journal : official journal of the Japanese Circulation Society, {Circ-J}, Sep 2005, vol. 69, no. 9, p. 1144-6, ISSN: 1346-9843.
Author(s)
Kierzkowska-Beata, Stanczyk-Jerzy, Kasprzak-Jaroslaw-D.
Author affiliation
Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Institute of Paediatrics, Medical University Lodz, Poland.
Abstract
A case of non-Q myocardial infarction in a previously healthy 17-year-old body builder, who used clenbuterol, a long-acting beta(2) adrenergic agonist with anabolic and lipolytic effects, is reported. Only 1 case report of myocardial infarction associated with the use of clenbuterol was found in a literature review and that case was, however, associated with anabolic steroid use. This is the first case report to describe myocardial infarction in a young male body builder only taking clenbuterol.

Accession number & update
15601278 Medline R 20040101.
Title
Postoperative course and anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse -- a case report.
Source
Anaesthesia, {Anaesthesia}, Jan 2005, vol. 60, no. 1, p. 81-4, ISSN: 0003-2409.
Author(s)
Medras-M, Tworowska-U, Jozkow-P, Dumanski-A, Dubinski-A.
Author affiliation
Department of Sports Medicine, University of Physical Education, Wroclaw, Poland. [email protected].
Abstract
It is estimated that 80% of weight lifters and body-builders take anabolic-androgenic steroids. Their long-term use is associated with a variety of pathological conditions and premature death. Anabolic- androgenic steroid abuse may lead to changes in the presentation and progression of some conditions. It remains unclear whether anabolic steroids should be given to patients with a history of abuse of these drugs who are to undergo surgery. We report on a fatal outcome following surgery in a 48-year-old weight lifter.

Accession number & update
15590370 Medline R 20040101.
Title
Myocardial infarction with intracoronary thrombus induced by anabolic steroids.
Source
Anadolu kardiyoloji dergisi : AKD = the Anatolian journal of cardiology, {Anadolu-Kardiyol-Derg}, Dec 2004, vol. 4, no. 4, p. 357-8, ISSN: 1302-8723.

Accession number & update
15155420 Medline R 20040101.
Title
Effects of androgenic-anabolic steroids on apolipoproteins and lipoprotein (a).
Source
British journal of sports medicine, {Br-J-Sports-Med}, Jun 2004, vol. 38, no. 3, p. 253-9, ISSN: 1473-0480.
Author(s)
Hartgens-F, Rietjens-G, Keizer-H-A, Kuipers-H, Wolffenbuttel-B-H-R.
Author affiliation
Netherlands Centre for Doping Affairs, Capelle aan den IJssel, The Netherlands. [email protected].
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of two different regimens of androgenic-anabolic steroid (AAS) administration on serum lipid and lipoproteins, and recovery of these variables after drug cessation, as indicators of the risk for cardiovascular disease in healthy male strength athletes. METHODS: In a non-blinded study (study 1) serum lipoproteins and lipids were assessed in 19 subjects who self administered AASs for eight or 14 weeks, and in 16 non-using volunteers. In a randomised double blind, placebo controlled design, the effects of intramuscular administration of nandrolone decanoate (200 mg/week) for eight weeks on the same variables in 16 bodybuilders were studied (study 2). Fasting serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), HDL2-cholesterol (HDL2-C), HDL3-cholesterol (HDL3-C), apolipoprotein A1 (Apo-A1), apolipoprotein B (Apo-B), and lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) were determined. RESULTS: In study 1 AAS administration led to decreases in serum concentrations of HDL-C (from 1.08 (0.30) to 0.43 (0.22) mmol/l), HDL2-C (from 0.21 (0.18) to 0.05 (0.03) mmol/l), HDL3-C (from 0.87 (0.24) to 0.40 (0.20) mmol/l, and Apo-A1 (from 1.41 (0.27) to 0.71 (0.34) g/l), whereas Apo-B increased from 0.96 (0.13) to 1.32 (0.28) g /l. Serum Lp(a) declined from 189 (315) to 32 (63) U/l. Total cholesterol and triglycerides did not change significantly. Alterations after eight and 14 weeks of AAS administration were comparable. No changes occurred in the controls. Six weeks after AAS cessation, serum HDL-C, HDL2-C, Apo-A1, Apo-B, and Lp(a) had still not returned to baseline concentrations. Administration of AAS for 14 weeks was associated with slower recovery to pretreatment concentrations than administration for eight weeks. In study 2, nandrolone decanoate did not influence serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, HDL2-C, HDL3-C, Apo-A1, and Apo-B concentrations after four and eight weeks of intervention, nor six weeks after withdrawal. However, Lp(a) concentrations decreased significantly from 103 (68) to 65 (44) U/l in the nandrolone decanoate group, and in the placebo group a smaller reduction from 245 (245) to 201 (194) U/l was observed. Six weeks after the intervention period, Lp(a) concentrations had returned to baseline values in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Self administration of several AASs simultaneously for eight or 14 weeks produces comparable profound unfavourable effects on lipids and lipoproteins, leading to an increased atherogenic lipid profile, despite a beneficial effect on Lp(a) concentration. The changes persist after AAS withdrawal, and normalisation depends on the duration of the drug abuse. Eight weeks of administration of nandrolone decanoate does not affect lipid and lipoprotein concentrations, although it may selectively reduce Lp(a) concentrations. The effect of this on atherogenesis remains to be established.




Accession number & update
18388062 Medline 20080704.
Title
Acute myocardial infarction in a young man using anabolic steroids.
Source
Angiology, {Angiology}, Jun-Jul 2008 (epub: 02 Apr 2008), vol. 59, no. 3, p. 376-8, ISSN: 1940-1574.
Author(s)
Wysoczanski-Mariusz, Rachko-Maurice, Bergmann-Steven-R.
Author affiliation
Department of Internal Medicine Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY 10003, USA. [email protected].
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are used worldwide to help athletes gain muscle mass and strength. Their use and abuse is associated with numerous side effects, including acute myocardial infarction (MI). We report a case of MI in a young 31-year-old bodybuilder. Because of the serious cardiovascular complications of anabolic steroids, physicians should be aware of their abuse and consequences.

Accession number & update
17939172 Medline 20080628.
Title
Clenbuterol marketed as dietary supplement.
Source
Biomedical chromatography : BMC, {Biomed-Chromatogr}, Mar 2008, vol. 22, no. 3, p. 298-300, ISSN: 0269-3879.
Author(s)
Parr-Maria-K, Koehler-Karsten, Geyer-Hans, Guddat-Sven, Schänzer-Wilhelm.
Author affiliation
Centre for Preventive Doping Research, German Sport University Cologne, Carl-Diem-Weg 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany. [email protected].
Abstract
In several studies it has been demonstrated that products containing pharmaceutically active ingredients are marketed as dietary supplements. Most of these products contain anabolic steroids. Recently products for weight loss containing active drugs have also appeared on the market. In the present case a healthy male ordered the product 'Anabolic burner' via the Internet. The product was received from a German dispatcher and paid by bank transfer to a German bank account. After ingesting one tablet he reported tremor and delivered a urine sample. This urine was found to contain 2 ng/mL of clenbuterol utilizing LC-MS/MS analysis. Additionally the product itself was analyzed with GC-MS for clenbuterol, yielding a content of about 30 microg per tablet. The beta-2 agonist clenbuterol is only legally available on prescription and is classified as prohibited doping substance in sports. The present case for the first time confirms the presence of clenbuterol in a dietary supplement. It again demonstrates the common problem with products on the supplement market, where non-licensed pharmaceuticals and doping substances are easily available. The ingestion of these products containing additions of therapeutic drugs can lead to side effects and/or interactions with conventional medicines.

Accession number & update
00871708 Medline R 20080624.
Title
Anabolic steroids and anticoagulants.
Source
British medical journal, {Br-Med-J}, 25 Jun 1977, vol. 1, no. 6077, p. 1659-60, ISSN: 0007-1447.
Author(s)
Howard-C-W, Hanson-S-G, Wahed-M-A.


MEDLINE - 1996 to date (MEDL)
Accession number & update
00125133 Medline R 20080624.
Title
Anabolic steroids in athelics: crossover double-blind trial on weightlifters.
Source
British medical journal, {Br-Med-J}, 31 May 1975, vol. 2, no. 5969, p. 471-3, ISSN: 0007-1447.
Author(s)
Freed-D-L, Banks-A-J, Longson-D, Burley-D-M.
Corporate author(s)
.
Abstract
Thirteen experienced male weightlifters taking high-protein diets and regular exercise took part in a double-blind crossover trial of methandienone 10 or 25 mg/day to seeif the drug improved athletic performance. Their improvemments were significantly greater on methandienone than on placebo; their body weights rose (though this seemed to be associated with water retention); and systolic blood pressure rose significantly. Methandienone caused many side effects, and three men had to withdraw because of them. All side effects disappeared after the drug was stopped. Anabolic steroids are effective only when given combination with exercise and high-protein diet.We deprecate their use in athletics but can suggest no way of stopping it.

Accession number & update
18514731 Medline 20080624.
Title
Use of doping agents, particularly anabolic steroids, in sports and society.
Source
Lancet, {Lancet}, 31 May 2008, vol. 371, no. 9627, p. 1872-82, 128 refs, ISSN: 1474-547X.
Author(s)
Sjöqvist-Folke, Garle-Mats, Rane-Anders.
Author affiliation
Karolinska Institutet, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. [email protected].
Corporate author(s)
.
Abstract
The use of doping agents, particularly anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), has changed from being a problem restricted to sports to one of public-health concern. We review the prevalence of misuse, the evidence that some drugs improve performance in sport, their side-effects, and the long-term consequences of AAS misuse for society at large. There is substantial under-reporting of the side-effects of AAS to health authorities. We describe neuropsychiatric side-effects of AAS and their possible neurobiological correlates, with particular emphasis on violent behaviour. Analytical methods and laboratories accredited by the World Anti-Doping Agency can detect the misuse of all doping agents; although the analysis of testosterone requires special techniques, and recently discovered interethnic differences in testosterone excretion should be taken into account. The prevention of misuse of doping agents should include random doping analyses, medical follow-ups, pedagogic interventions, tougher legislation against possession of AAS, and longer disqualifications of athletes who use AAS.

Accession number & update
18382179 Medline 20080529.
Title
Ischemic stroke related to anabolic abuse.
Source
Clinical neuropharmacology, {Clin-Neuropharmacol}, Mar-Apr 2008, vol. 31, no. 2, p. 80-5, ISSN: 1537-162X.
Author(s)
Santamarina-Rodrigo-Daniel, Besocke-Ana-Gabriela, Romano-Lucas-Martin, Ioli-Pablo-Leonardo, Gonorazky-Sergio-Eduardo.
Author affiliation
Neurology Department, Hospital Privado de Comunidad, Mar del Plata, Argentina. [email protected].
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) abuse increased in recent years, and it is associated with numerous adverse effects. Few reports on ischemic stroke related to anabolic steroid abuse have been published. We report a case of a 26-year-old male amateur athlete who suffered a posterior territory ischemic stroke. No abnormalities were found in angiography and echocardiography studies, neither in hemostatic profile. His only significant risk factor was nonmedical use of stanozolol, an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are capable of increasing vascular tone, arterial tension, and platelet aggregation; therefore, they are prone to produce atherothrombotic phenomena. Because of young people's widespread use of anabolic steroids, physicians should be aware of this kind of complication.


Accession number & update
17512138 Medline R 20080517.
Title
Trends in non-medical use of anabolic steroids by U.S. college students: results from four national surveys.
Source
Drug and alcohol dependence, {Drug-Alcohol-Depend}, 8 Oct 2007 (epub: 23 May 2007), vol. 90, no. 2-3, p. 243-51, ISSN: 0376-8716.
Author(s)
McCabe-Sean-Esteban, Brower-Kirk-J, West-Brady-T, Nelson-Toben-F, Wechsler-Henry.
Author affiliation
The University of Michigan, Substance Abuse Research Center, 2025 Traverwood Dr., Suite C, Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2194, USA. plius @umich.edu.
Abstract
This study assessed the prevalence, trends, and student- and college-level characteristics associated with the non-medical use of anabolic steroids (NMAS) among U.S. college students. Data were collected through self-administered mail surveys, from 15,282, 14,428, 13,953, and 10,904 randomly selected college students at the same 119 nationally representative colleges in 1993, 1997, 1999 and 2001, respectively. The prevalence of lifetime, past-year and past-month NMAS was 1% or less and generally did not change significantly between 1993 and 2001, with one exception: past-year NMAS increased significantly among men from 1993 (0.36%) to 2001 (0.90%). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that lifetime and past-year NMAS were associated with student-level characteristics such as being male and participation in intercollegiate athletics. Lifetime and past-year NMAS were also positively associated with several risky behaviors, including cigarette smoking, illicit drug use, drinking and driving, and DSM-IV alcohol use disorders. Nearly 7 out of every 10 lifetime non-medical users of anabolic steroids met past-year criteria for a DSM-IV alcohol use disorder. Although the overall prevalence of NMAS remained low between 1993 and 2001, findings suggest that continued monitoring is necessary because male student-athletes are at heightened risk for NMAS and this behavior is associated with a wide range of risky health behaviors. The characteristics associated with NMAS have important implications for future practice and research.
Grant ID: DA019492, Acronym: DA, Agency: United States NIDA
Grant ID: R03 DA019492-01, Acronym: DA, Agency: United States NIDA.


Accession number & update
17548372 Medline 20080510.
Title
Consumption of anabolic steroids in sport, physical activity and as a drug of abuse: an analysis of the scientific literature and areas of research.
Source
British journal of sports medicine, {Br-J-Sports-Med}, Feb 2008 (epub: 04 Jun 2007), vol. 42, no. 2, p. 103-9, 25 refs, ISSN: 1473-0480.
Author(s)
Agulló-Calatayud-V, González-Alcaide-G, Valderrama-Zurián-J-C, Aleixandre-Benavent-R.
Author affiliation
Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The consumption of anabolic steroids (AS) has been growing continuously in recent years. It has gone beyond the sports world; AS are now widely used as drugs of abuse in connection with bodybuilding. This study sets out to assess the state of scientific research in the area. DESIGN: Bibliometrics were employed to evaluate the literature retrieved from the principal relevant bibliographic databases: MEDLINE, SportDiscus, the Science Citation Index Expanded and the Social Sciences Citation Index. The core journals were identified along with the leading authors and research groups and their institutional affiliations. Techniques based on social network analysis were applied in order to build up a concept map of research. RESULTS: 1325 documents were retrieved. They were produced by 3131 different researchers giving a Collaboration Index of 3.32. The institutions with the most productive authors were Ball State University (Muncie, IN, USA), the Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Nantes (ENVN), the Institut Municipal dInvestigació Mèdica (IMIM) (Barcelona, Spain), the Institute of Biochemistry of the German Sport University Cologne (DSHS), Iowa State University, Maastricht University and the University of Iowa. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that there has been an upward trend in the number of research projects. The sources used complemented one another, as 78.04% of the documents retrieved were unique to one source. The productivity ranking was headed by sports medicine journals, followed by journals of chemistry, physiology, endocrinology and substance abuse. Besides sporting activities, the most important research clusters were those connected with bodybuilding and with
youth groups.



Accession number & update
15084541 Medline R 20040101.
Title
Are the cardiac effects of anabolic steroid abuse in strength athletes reversible?
Source
Heart (British Cardiac Society), {Heart}, May 2004, vol. 90, no. 5, p. 496-501, ISSN: 1468-201X.
Author(s)
Urhausen-A, Albers-T, Kindermann-W.
Author affiliation
Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, University of Saarland Saarbruecken, Germany. [email protected].
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the reversibility of adverse cardiovascular effects after chronic abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) in athletes. METHODS: Doppler echocardiography and cycle ergometry including measurements of blood pressure at rest and during exercise were undertaken in 32 bodybuilders or powerlifters, including 15 athletes who had not been taking AAS for at least 12 months (ex-users) and 17 currently abusing AAS (users), as well as in 15 anabolic-free weightlifters. RESULTS: Systolic blood pressure was higher in users (mean (SD) 140 (10) mm Hg) than in ex-users (130 (5) mm Hg) (p < 0.05) or weightlifters (125 (10) mm Hg; p < 0.001). Left ventricular muscle mass related to fat-free body mass and the ratio of mean left ventricular wall thickness to internal diameter were not significantly higher in users (3.32 (0.48) g/kg and 42.1 (4.4)%) than in ex-users (3.16 (0.53) g/kg and 40.3 (3.8)%), but were lower in weightlifters (2.43 (0.26) g/kg and 36.5 (4.0)%; p < 0.001). Left ventricular wall thickness related to fat-free body mass was also lower in weightlifters, but did not differ between users and ex-users. Left ventricular wall thickness was correlated with a point score estimating AAS abuse in users (r = 0.49, p < 0.05). In all groups, systolic left ventricular function was within the normal range. The maximum late transmitral Doppler flow velocity (Amax) was higher in users (61 (12) cm/s) and ex-users (60 (12) cm/s) than in weightlifters (50 (9) cm/s; p < 0.05 and p = 0.054). CONCLUSIONS: Several years after discontinuation of anabolic steroid abuse, strength athletes still show a slight concentric left ventricular hypertrophy in comparison with AAS-free strength athletes.


Accession number & update
14751958 Medline R 20040101.
Title
Raised concentrations of C reactive protein in anabolic steroid using bodybuilders.
Source
British journal of sports medicine, {Br-J-Sports-Med}, Feb 2004, vol. 38, no. 1, p. 97-8, ISSN: 0306-3674.
Author(s)
Grace-F-M, Davies-B.
Author affiliation
Department of Health and Exercise Science, School of Applied Sciences, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Wales, UK. [email protected].
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To examine levels of C reactive protein in users of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) compared with age matched control groups consisting of AAS using (but abstinent)/resistance trained and non-drug using/sedentary controls. METHOD: Subjects included AAS using bodybuilders (n = 10); bodybuilders who denied AAS use (n = 10); sedentary controls (n = 8). Venous blood was sampled, from which serum concentrations of C reactive protein, male sex hormones, and cardiac troponin T were determined. RESULTS: A significantly altered hormonal profile in the AAS using group provided indirect confirmation of AAS use. C reactive protein concentrations were significantly (p<0.05) higher in the AAS using bodybuilders. There was no relation between C reactive protein and cardiac troponin T. CONCLUSION: AAS using bodybuilders had significantly higher C reactive protein concentrations, indicating a greater propensity to develop peripheral arterial disease.

Accession number & update
12573299 Medline R 20030101.
Title
Neuroendocrine and behavioral effects of high-dose anabolic steroid administration in male normal volunteers.
Source
Psychoneuroendocrinology, {Psychoneuroendocrinology}, Apr 2003, vol. 28, no. 3, p. 317-31, ISSN: 0306-4530.
Author(s)
Daly-R-C, Su-T-P, Schmidt-P-J, Pagliaro-M, Pickar-D, Rubinow-D-R.
Author affiliation
Behavioural Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Building 10, Room 3N238, 10 Center Drive MSC 1277, Bethesda, MD 20892-1277, USA. [email protected].
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Despite widespread abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), the endocrine effects of supraphysiologic doses of these compounds remain unclear. We administered the AAS methyltestosterone (MT) to 20 normal volunteers in an in-patient setting, examined its effects on levels of pituitary-gonadal, -thyroid, and -adrenal hormones, and examined potential relationships between endocrine changes and MT-induced psychological symptoms. METHOD: Subjects received MT (three days of 40 mg/day, then three days of 240 mg/day) or placebo in a fixed sequence with neither subjects nor raters aware of order. Samples were obtained at the ends of the baseline, high-dose MT and withdrawal phases. Potential relationships between hormonal changes and visual analog scale measured mood changes were examined. RESULTS: Significant decreases in plasma levels of gonadotropins, gonadal steroids, sex hormone binding globulin, free T3 and T4, and thyroid binding globulin (Bonferroni t, p<0.01 for each) were seen during high-dose MT; free thyroxine and TSH increased during high-dose MT, with TSH increases reaching significance during withdrawal. No significant changes in pituitary-adrenal hormones were observed. Changes in free thyroxine significantly correlated with changes in aggressiveness (anger, violent feelings, irritability) (r=0.5, p=0.02) and changes in total testosterone correlated significantly with changes in cognitive cluster symptoms (forgetfulness, distractibility) (r=0.52, p=0.02). Hormonal changes did not correlate with plasma MT levels. CONCLUSIONS: Acute high-dose MT administration acutely suppresses the reproductive axis and significantly impacts thyroid axis balance without a consistent effect on pituitary-adrenal hormones. Mood and behavioral effects observed during AAS use may in part reflect secondary hormonal changes.

 

[Mr. dB]

At least tren doesn't screw with your heart rate.

What about blood pressure though?

 

[10001110101]

to be honest, i don't know a single AAS user who couldn't benefit by minimizing or better yet eliminating certain compounds.

all AAS cause left ventricular hypertrophy, this increases your risk for CVD, this is unavoidable with AAS use, but is also consistent with strength training in general. this is the one truly consistent (and unavoidable) negative health consequence of AAS. however, it is minor in comparison to some of the other, more controllable effects. also do not be fooled that cardio will nullify this effect, it will not.

ALL AAS adversely affect HDL/LDL ratio, a list of a few who have relatively little impact on this (small enough to be counteracted by diet/cardio)
-testosterone @500mg/wk or less
-nandrolone @ similar dosages
-primobolan @ similar dosages

the higher your dosages, the bigger an effect on the LDL/HDL, some of the worst offenders include all orals especially winstrol/anavar. so while you may feel fine running 100mg/day var for 12 weeks, rest assured you are lining your arteries with plaque daily. essentially, understand that estrogen is your friend in this regard, and for this reason take caution when using AI's avoid them if possible, and if necessary use the lowest dose of the more lipid friendly AI's (i.e. aromasin) or better yet, use a SERM (have liver bloodwork done however), as it can maintain or improve a lipid profile while using aas and blocking estro.

there is no reason to use an oral for more than 4 weeks, you are putting unnecessary stress on your liver which can be a lifelong complication and can infact lead to hospitalization and death.

cardio should always be incorporated in a bb'ers training routine, especially when NOT on aas, as AAS mitigates many of the health benefits that cardio provides in a natural state.

i'd like to see everyone lower their dosages, especially those who don't get the obvious sides and therefore feel comfortable running well over gram
plus cycles every cycle.

now add stims on top of the CVD risk factors introduced by AAS and it is only reasonable to expect complications.

this should honestly be a wake-up call to everyone.

lower dosages, shorter cycles, safer compounds.

AAS use can be "relatively" safe, however, it absolutely must be respected and used in moderation.

and ALWAYS get bloodwork.

 

[6FULLMETALTRUCKIE9]

so BOTTOM LINE IF YOU USE GEAR YOU'LL MESS UP YOUR HEART AND THROW OFF YOUR BLOOD AND HORMONE LEVELS AND SET YOURSELF UP FOR HEALTH PROBLEMS DOWN THE ROAD? JUST THOUGHT I'D ASK! FMT

 

[10001110101]

so BOTTOM LINE IF YOU USE GEAR YOU'LL MESS UP YOUR HEART AND THROW OFF YOUR BLOOD AND HORMONE LEVELS AND SET YOURSELF UP FOR HEALTH PROBLEMS DOWN THE ROAD? JUST THOUGHT I'D ASK! FMT

not necessarily "MESS UP" but yes, you will have some enlargement which makes you more prone to heart problems later in life, and yes this COULD mean cardiovascular disease, however with moderation and proper cycle habits this will hopefully never amount to any health issues.

it's kind of hard to say how much of an effect it has, it's variable from individual to individual. congenital risk factors play a big part, but you do take health risks using steroids, no one can deny it. but i can tell you running a handful of 500mg/wk testosterone cycles is healthier for you than a lifetime of hard drinking even if it's just on the weekends. it's healthier than smoking, it's healthier than almost every rec. drug available. that doesn't make it healthy. it has every bit the capacity to end your life as a drug/drinking habit if used with reckless disregard, even with moderate negligence. but it has the capacity to improve your health too in certain circumstances and at reasonable dosages (generally lower than BB'er dosages)

some people can be diabetic and have jacked up cholesterol from too many supersized mcdonald's meals and live to be 80. some people have a healthy diet and exercise and die from an MCI at 52, it's about risk factors and what you can do to minimize them.

 

[drsketch]

Great thread!