Doping and sports endocrinology: anabolic-androgenic steroids

The use of anabolic steroids affects not only professional athletes but also the general population (bodybuilders, gym clients, and adolescents). In the first case, its use is prohibited and sanctioned by the World Anti-Doping Agency and Olympic committees. For the other users, it is difficult to establish its prevalence since many obtain the products via the Internet. The reasons for its use are varied and different forms of use and other types of users have been described. Among the side effects of steroid use, hypogonadism is the most frequent cause for endocrinological consultation. After a general introduction to doping, this review describes the historical background of anabolic-androgenic steroids, their classification, forms of use, phy-siological effects, adverse effects on different organs and systems, treatment of hypogonadism, as well as detection methods. (C) 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U.

Automated summary

The use of anabolic steroids has an impact on both professional athletes and the general population. It is prohibited and punished in professional sports, but its prevalence and use among non-professional users are difficult to determine. This review provides a comprehensive overview of anabolic steroids, including their historical background, classification, forms of use, physiological effects, adverse effects, treatment, and detection methods.