FlexOnTheGrind
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In my opinion, the symptoms commonly attributed to anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) dependency are primarily due to Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Induced Hypogonadism (ASIH). For studies on AAS dependency to be credible, it’s crucial they monitor the onset of hypogonadism. Additionally, treatments aimed at preventing or alleviating ASIH can be valuable not only in helping users stop AAS use but also in preserving muscle mass and strength — factors that are important for managing chronic diseases and the aging process.
AAS have long been associated with various psychological and behavioral issues. Historically, researchers have dismissed the idea that AAS directly contribute to muscle growth, with some even suggesting that muscle gain occurs only when testosterone levels are below normal, arguing that the large doses used by non-prescription users indicate a desire for effects beyond normal physiological responses. This, in turn, led to the assumption that AAS might have addictive properties, with withdrawal symptoms upon cessation mirroring those seen with other addictive substances. These symptoms can include aggression, depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, sleep disturbances, violent behavior, rage, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
The debate over whether AAS can cause addiction is complicated by differences in how addiction is defined in different frameworks. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) considers AAS as potentially dependence-producing, while the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) does not classify them as addictive substances. This discrepancy has sparked ongoing debates in the scientific community.
Much of the research on AAS addiction centers around the work of Brower et al., who explored the existence of a "steroid dependency syndrome." Using a modified version of the DSM-III-R criteria for substance dependency, Brower found that while cases of addiction to AAS have been documented, they typically involve individuals using high doses over extended periods. Notably, he found that there were no cases of dependency associated with therapeutic use of AAS. Instead, individuals who misuse AAS may develop withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, depression, restlessness, decreased libido, insomnia, and a distorted self-image, among others.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) published a report in 1990 concluding that AAS do not meet the criteria for having significant abuse potential, reinforcing the view that AAS dependency is not well-supported by scientific evidence. Similarly, a 1994 report by the President's Council on Physical Fitness highlighted the lack of sufficient data to classify AAS withdrawal, dependence, and abuse as official syndromes in the DSM-IV.
Despite these findings, there continues to be limited research on the addiction potential of AAS, and many believe the concept of "AAS addiction" remains largely a myth.
AAS have long been associated with various psychological and behavioral issues. Historically, researchers have dismissed the idea that AAS directly contribute to muscle growth, with some even suggesting that muscle gain occurs only when testosterone levels are below normal, arguing that the large doses used by non-prescription users indicate a desire for effects beyond normal physiological responses. This, in turn, led to the assumption that AAS might have addictive properties, with withdrawal symptoms upon cessation mirroring those seen with other addictive substances. These symptoms can include aggression, depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, sleep disturbances, violent behavior, rage, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
The debate over whether AAS can cause addiction is complicated by differences in how addiction is defined in different frameworks. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) considers AAS as potentially dependence-producing, while the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) does not classify them as addictive substances. This discrepancy has sparked ongoing debates in the scientific community.
Much of the research on AAS addiction centers around the work of Brower et al., who explored the existence of a "steroid dependency syndrome." Using a modified version of the DSM-III-R criteria for substance dependency, Brower found that while cases of addiction to AAS have been documented, they typically involve individuals using high doses over extended periods. Notably, he found that there were no cases of dependency associated with therapeutic use of AAS. Instead, individuals who misuse AAS may develop withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, depression, restlessness, decreased libido, insomnia, and a distorted self-image, among others.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) published a report in 1990 concluding that AAS do not meet the criteria for having significant abuse potential, reinforcing the view that AAS dependency is not well-supported by scientific evidence. Similarly, a 1994 report by the President's Council on Physical Fitness highlighted the lack of sufficient data to classify AAS withdrawal, dependence, and abuse as official syndromes in the DSM-IV.
Despite these findings, there continues to be limited research on the addiction potential of AAS, and many believe the concept of "AAS addiction" remains largely a myth.
