CONSEQUENCES OF AAS DOPING: AN OVERVIEW OF SHORT AND LONG TERM EFFECTS

Abstract

AAS, if taken in overphysiological doses, may increase muscle strenght and lean body mass, while they don't seem to have effects on endurance performance and on fat mass. Because of the widespread use of these substances, the focus is on their related side effects. The effects on the reproductive system seem to be quite important and they may induce some changes as far as libido and (temporary) infertility are concerned. In recent years it has become clear that AAS can have significant impacts on psyche and behaviour. Researches and future studies should focus their attention primarily on the short and long term effects due to the discontinuous use of AAS and on the long term health effects in those taking steroids sporadically. The alterations of the reproductive and cardiovascular systems, as well as modifications of psyche and behaviour should play a major role in research