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Hammoud S, van den Bemt BJF, Jaber A, Kurdi M. Impaired cardiac structure and systolic function in athletes using supra-physiological doses of anabolic androgenic steroids. J Sci Med Sport 2023; 26:514-521. [PMID: 37758530 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.08.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Athletes are increasingly using supra-physiological doses of anabolic androgenic steroids without weighing health side effects. This study aims to conjointly evaluate the effect of supraphysiological doses of anabolic androgenic steroids on global cardiovascular structure and functional capacity. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS 92 males enrolled in the study, including 18 sedentary subjects, 26 anabolic androgenic steroid non-user athletes, and 48 anabolic androgenic steroid-user athletes. Two-dimensional echocardiography was done to evaluate the cardiovascular structure and function. RESULTS Anabolic androgenic steroid-users presented increased cardiac remodeling of the left ventricle and left atrium compared to control groups (p < 0.001). Anabolic androgenic steroid-users showed increased left ventricular mass/body surface area versus control groups (p < 0.001), with 28 steroid-users (58.3 %) having cardiac remodeling, which is more than control groups (p < 0.001). Anabolic androgenic steroid-users presented lower diastolic function (E and E/A) compared to non-users (p = 0.003 and <0.001, respectively). Ejection fraction was decreased among anabolic androgenic steroid-users versus the sedentary group only (p = 0.020), while anabolic androgenic steroid-users presented reduced global longitudinal strain of 15.43 % compared to both control groups (p < 0.001). Moreover, anabolic androgenic steroid-users experienced more tricuspid valve regurgitation (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Anabolic androgenic steroid consumption is associated with global cardiac remodeling with increased dimensions of the left ventricle, and atrium. Anabolic androgenic steroid-users present left ventricular hypertrophy with reduced subclinical systolic function. Moreover, anabolic androgenic steroid consumption is correlated with valve regurgitation and dilation of the sino-tubular junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Hammoud
- Laboratory of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, Section 1, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri Educational Campus, Hadat, Lebanon; Department of Pharmacy, Radboud University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Bart J F van den Bemt
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud University Medical Center, the Netherlands; Department of Pharmacy, Sint Maartenskliniek, the Netherlands; Department of Pharmacy, University Medical Center Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ayman Jaber
- Department of Cardiology, Mount Lebanon Hospital - University Medical Center, Lebanon
| | - Mazen Kurdi
- Laboratory of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, Section 1, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri Educational Campus, Hadat, Lebanon.
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2
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Fadah K, Gopi G, Lingireddy A, Blumer V, Dewald T, Mentz RJ. Anabolic androgenic steroids and cardiomyopathy: an update. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1214374. [PMID: 37564909 PMCID: PMC10412093 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1214374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) include endogenously produced androgens like testosterone and their synthetic derivatives. Their influence on multiple metabolic pathways across organ systems results in an extensive side effect profile. From creating an atherogenic and prothrombotic milieu to direct myocardial injury, the effects of AAS on the heart may culminate with patients requiring thorough cardiac evaluation and multi-disciplinary medical management related to cardiomyopathy and heart failure (HF). Supraphysiological doses of AAS have been shown to induce cardiomyopathy via biventricular dysfunction. Advancement in imaging including cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and additional diagnostic testing have facilitated the identification of AAS-induced left ventricular dysfunction, but data regarding the impact on right ventricular function remains limited. Emerging studies showed conflicting data regarding the reversibility of AAS-induced cardiomyopathy. There is an unmet need for a systematic long-term outcomes study to empirically evaluate the clinical course of cardiomyopathy and to assess potential targeted therapy as appropriate. In this review, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology and management considerations related to AAS and cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahtan Fadah
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Gokul Gopi
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Ajay Lingireddy
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Vanessa Blumer
- Department of Cardiovascular, Heart and Vascular Institute, Kaufman Center For Heart Failure, OH, United States
| | - Tracy Dewald
- Department of Cardiovascular, Duke University Medical Center and Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Robert J. Mentz
- Department of Cardiovascular, Duke University Medical Center and Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, United States
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3
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Hammoud S, van den Bemt BJF, Jaber A, Kurdi M. Chronic anabolic androgenic steroid administration reduces global longitudinal strain among off-cycle bodybuilders. Int J Cardiol 2023; 381:153-160. [PMID: 37003371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2023.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supra-physiologic doses of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) lead to multiple cardiovascular complications. The long-term clinical effect of AAS overuse on cardiac structure and function, which persists during off-cycle periods, remains unclear. METHODS A total of 15 sedentary subjects and 79 bodybuilders (26 AAS non-users and 53 AAS-users), matched for age and male gender, were assessed in a cross-sectional design for echocardiography measures. AAS-users were included during an off-cycle phase, abstained from AAS for at least 1 month. 2D standard M-mode and speckle tracking echocardiography were used to measure cardiac dimensions and functions. RESULTS Inter-ventricular septum and posterior wall thickness were significantly higher among chronic off-cycle AAS-users compared to AAS non-users and sedentary group. Off-cycle AAS-users showed lower E/A ratio of the diastolic function. Left ventricular systolic function was not affected in terms of ejection fraction, but significant subclinical systolic dysfunction, assessed by GLS, was observed for chronic off-cycle AAS-users compared to AAS non-users (GLS = -16.8% vs. -18.5%, respectively; p = 0.001). Diameter of left atrium and right ventricle were significantly enlarged among off-cycle AAS-user bodybuilders (p = 0.002 and 0.040). TAPSE and RV S', and cardiac vasculature of aorta were comparable in all groups. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that during off-cycle phase, AAS-users show long-term impaired GLS, even after considerable AAS abstain, despite normal LVEF. It highlights the importance of following GLS to predict hypertrophy and heart failure events, and not relying on LVEF alone. In addition, the hypertrophic effect of chronic AAS consumption is transitional during AAS washout periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Hammoud
- Laboratory of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, Section 1, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri Educational Campus, Hadat, Lebanon; Department of Pharmacy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Bart J F van den Bemt
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Pharmacy, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Pharmacy, University Medical Center Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ayman Jaber
- Department of Cardiology, Mount Lebanon Hospital - University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mazen Kurdi
- Laboratory of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, Section 1, Lebanese University, Rafic Hariri Educational Campus, Hadat, Lebanon.
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4
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Adami PE, Koutlianos N, Baggish A, Bermon S, Cavarretta E, Deligiannis A, Furlanello F, Kouidi E, Marques-Vidal P, Niebauer J, Pelliccia A, Sharma S, Solberg EE, Stuart M, Papadakis M. Cardiovascular effects of doping substances, commonly prescribed medications and ergogenic aids in relation to sports: a position statement of the sport cardiology and exercise nucleus of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2022; 29:559-575. [PMID: 35081615 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The use of substances and medications with potential cardiovascular effects among those practicing sports and physical activity has progressively increased in recent years. This is also connected to the promotion of physical activity and exercise as core aspects of a healthy lifestyle, which has led also to an increase in sport participation across all ages. In this context, three main users' categories can be identified, (i) professional and amateur athletes using substances to enhance their performance, (ii) people with chronic conditions, which include physical activity and sport in their therapeutic plan, in association with prescribed medications, and (iii) athletes and young individuals using supplements or ergogenic aids to integrate their diet or obtaining a cognitive enhancement effect. All the substances used for these purposes have been reported to have side effects, among whom the cardiovascular consequences are the most dangerous and could lead to cardiac events. The cardiovascular effect depends on the type of substance, the amount, the duration of use, and the individual response to the substances, considering the great variability in responses. This Position Paper reviews the recent literature and represents an update to the previously published Position Paper published in 2006. The objective is to inform physicians, athletes, coaches, and those participating in sport for a health enhancement purpose, about the adverse cardiovascular effects of doping substances, commonly prescribed medications and ergogenic aids, when associated with sport and exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Emilio Adami
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, 6-8 Quai Antoine 1er, Monaco 98000, Monaco
| | - Nikolaos Koutlianos
- Sports Medicine Laboratory, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thermi, AUTH DPESS, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aaron Baggish
- Cardiovascular Performance Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Stéphane Bermon
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, 6-8 Quai Antoine 1er, Monaco 98000, Monaco
| | - Elena Cavarretta
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Corso della Repubblica, 79 - 04100 - Latina (LT), Italy.,Mediterranea Cardiocentro, Via Orazio, 2, 80122, Napoli (NA), Italy
| | - Asterios Deligiannis
- Sports Medicine Laboratory, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thermi, AUTH DPESS, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Francesco Furlanello
- Aritmologia Clinica e Sportiva, IRCCS Gruppo MultiMedica Elettrofisiologia, Via Milanese 300, 20099, Sesto San Giovanni(MI), Italy
| | - Evangelia Kouidi
- Sports Medicine Laboratory, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thermi, AUTH DPESS, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Pedro Marques-Vidal
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon 46, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Josef Niebauer
- Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 21, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Antonio Pelliccia
- Sports Medicine and Science Institute, CONI, Largo Piero Gabrielli, 1, 00197, Rome, Italy
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | | | - Mark Stuart
- International Testing Agency-ITA, Av. de Rhodanie 58, 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK
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5
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Smit DL, Voogel AJ, den Heijer M, de Ronde W. Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Induce Reversible Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Cardiac Dysfunction. Echocardiography Results of the HAARLEM Study. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:732318. [PMID: 36304014 PMCID: PMC9580689 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.732318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is not uncommon among strength athletes. Several cross-sectional studies have linked AAS use to heart disease, but a causal role for AAS is not certain and it is unknown whether cardiac changes are reversible. Methods: Men of at least 18 years old intending to start an AAS cycle on short notice were included for comprehensive 3D echocardiographic examination before (T0), at the end of the cycle (T1), and 1 year after inclusion (T2) after a recovery period. Details of the AAS cycle performed and the use of other performance and image-enhancing drugs (PIEDs) as well as illicit drug use were recorded. Trend analysis and multivariable regression analysis were performed with mixed effects linear models. Results: Thirty-one subjects were included. Between start (T0) and end of the cycle (T1), after a median AAS cycle duration of 16 weeks, 3D left ventricular ejection fraction declined with 4.9% (CI −7.2 to −2.5, P < 0.001), E/A-ratio declined with−0.45 (CI −0.69 to −0.21, P < 0.001), and 3D left atrial volume increased with 9.2 ml (CI 2.9–15.4, P = 0.004). Left ventricular mass increased with 28.3 g (CI 14.2–42.4, P < 0.001) and was positively correlated with AAS average weekly dose. After a median recovery time of 8 months (T2), all parameters returned to baseline. Conclusion: AAS induce left ventricular hypertrophy and impaired systolic and diastolic function in amateur strength athletes. The structural cardiac changes are positively associated with AAS dose and complete recovery occurred after AAS were discontinued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diederik L. Smit
- Department of Internal Medicine, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Diederik L. Smit
| | - A. J. Voogel
- Department of Cardiology, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Willem de Ronde
- Department of Internal Medicine, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, Netherlands
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D'Andrea A, Radmilovic J, Russo V, Sperlongano S, Carbone A, Di Maio M, Ilardi F, Riegler L, D'Alto M, Giallauria F, Bossone E, Picano E. Biventricular dysfunction and lung congestion in athletes on anabolic androgenic steroids: a speckle tracking and stress lung echocardiography analysis. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 28:1928-1938. [PMID: 34339497 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The real effects of the chronic consumption of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) on cardiovascular structures are subjects of intense debate. The aim of the study was to detect by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction at rest and during exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) in athletes abusing AAS. METHODS AND RESULTS One hundred and fifteen top-level competitive bodybuilders were selected (70 males), including 65 athletes misusing AAS for at least 5 years (users), 50 anabolic-free bodybuilders (non-users), compared to 50 age- and sex-matched healthy sedentary controls. Standard Doppler echocardiography, STE analysis, and lung ultrasound at rest and at peak supine-bicycle ESE were performed. Athletes showed increased LV mass index, wall thickness, and RV diameters compared with controls, whereas LV ejection fraction was comparable within the groups. left atrial volume index, LV and RV strain, and LV E/Em were significantly higher in AAS users. Users showed more B-lines during stress (median 4.4 vs. 1.25 in controls and 1.3 in non-users, P < 0.01 vs. users). By multivariable analyses, LV E/Ea (beta coefficient = 0.35, P < 0.01), pulmonary artery systolic pressure (beta = 0.43, P < 0.001) at peak effort and number of weeks of AAS use per year (beta = 0.45, P < 0.001) emerged as the only independent determinants of resting RV lateral wall peak systolic two-dimensional strain. In addition, a close association between resting RV myocardial function and VO2 peak during ESE was evidenced (P < 0.001), with a powerful incremental value with respect to clinical and standard echocardiographic data. CONCLUSIONS In athletes abusing steroids, STE analysis showed an impaired RV systolic deformation, closely associated with reduced functional capacity during physical effort, and-during exercise-more pulmonary congestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonello D'Andrea
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy.,Unit of Cardiology and Intensive Coronary Care, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Viale S. Francesco 84014, Italy
| | - Juri Radmilovic
- Unit of Cardiology and Intensive Coronary Care, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Viale S. Francesco 84014, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Russo
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Simona Sperlongano
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Andreina Carbone
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Marco Di Maio
- Unit of Cardiology, "SS Addolorata" Hospital, Eboli (ASL Salerno), Piazza Scuola Medica Salernitana 84025, Italy
| | - Federica Ilardi
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Italy
| | - Lucia Riegler
- Unit of Cardiology and Intensive Coronary Care, "Umberto I" Hospital, Nocera Inferiore, Viale S. Francesco 84014, Italy
| | - Michele D'Alto
- Unit of Cardiology, Department of Traslational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Via Bianchi 6, 80131, Italy
| | - Francesco Giallauria
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- UOC Cardiologia Riabilitativa, Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Via Cardarelli 9, 80131, Italy
| | - Eugenio Picano
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi, Pisa 56121, Italy
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7
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Bhasin S, Hatfield DL, Hoffman JR, Kraemer WJ, Labotz M, Phillips SM, Ratamess NA. Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use in Sports, Health, and Society. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 53:1778-1794. [PMID: 34261998 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This consensus statement is an update of the 1987 American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) position stand on the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Substantial data have been collected since the previous position stand, and AAS use patterns have changed significantly. The ACSM acknowledges that lawful and ethical therapeutic use of AAS is now an accepted mainstream treatment for several clinical disorders; however, there is increased recognition that AAS are commonly used illicitly to enhance performance and appearance in several segments of the population, including competitive athletes. The illicit use of AAS by competitive athletes is contrary to the rules and ethics of many sport governing bodies. Thus, the ACSM deplores the illicit use of AAS for athletic and recreational purposes. This consensus statement provides a brief history of AAS use, an update on the science of how we now understand AAS to be working metabolically/biochemically, potential side effects, the prevalence of use among athletes, and the use of AAS in clinical scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalender Bhasin
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Disa L Hatfield
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI
| | - Jay R Hoffman
- Department of Physical Therapy, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - William J Kraemer
- Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | | | | | - Nicholas A Ratamess
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ
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8
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Kouidi EJ, Kaltsatou A, Anifanti MA, Deligiannis AP. Early Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction, Reduced Baroreflex Sensitivity, and Cardiac Autonomic Imbalance in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Users. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18136974. [PMID: 34209901 PMCID: PMC8295852 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18136974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The effects of androgen anabolic steroids (AAS) use on athletes’ cardiac autonomic activity in terms of baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), and heart rate variability (HRV) have not yet been adequately studied. Furthermore, there is no information to describe the possible relationship between the structural and functional cardiac remodeling and the cardiac autonomic nervous system changes caused by AAS abuse. Thus, we aimed to study the effects of long-term AAS abuse on cardiac autonomic efficacy and cardiac adaptations in strength-trained athletes. In total, 80 strength-trained athletes (weightlifters and bodybuilders) participated in the study. Notably, 40 of them using AAS according to their state formed group A, 40 nonuser strength-trained athletes comprised group B, and 40 healthy nonathletes (group C) were used as controls. All subjects underwent a head-up tilt test using the 30 min protocol to evaluate the baroreflex sensitivity and short HRV modulation. Furthermore, all athletes undertook standard echocardiography, a cardiac tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) study, and a maximal spiroergometric test on a treadmill to estimate their maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max). The tilt test results showed that group A presented a significantly lower BRS and baroreflex effectiveness index than group B by 13.8% and 10.7%, respectively (p < 0.05). Regarding short-term HRV analysis, a significant increase was observed in sympathetic activity in AAS users. Moreover, athletes of group A showed increased left ventricular (LV) mass index (LVMI) by 8.9% (p < 0.05), compared to group B. However, no difference was found in LV ejection fraction between the groups. TDI measurements indicated that AAS users had decreased septal and lateral peak E’ by 38.0% (p < 0.05) and 32.1% (p < 0.05), respectively, and increased E/E’ by 32.0% (p < 0.05), compared to group B. This LV diastolic function alteration was correlated with the year of AAS abuse. A significant correlation was established between BRS depression and LV diastolic impairment in AAS users. Cardiopulmonary test results showed that AAS users had significantly higher time to exhaustion by 11.0 % (p < 0.05) and VO2max by 15.1% (p < 0.05), compared to controls. A significant correlation was found between VO2max and LVMI in AAS users. The results of the present study indicated that long-term AAS use in strength-trained athletes led to altered cardiovascular autonomic modulations, which were associated with indices of early LV diastolic dysfunction.
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9
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Passino C, Fabiani I. Multiparametric ultrasound approach for early detection of cardiac dysfunction: ready for the clinical arena? Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 28:1926-1927. [PMID: 34089584 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Passino
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine Division, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.,Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, P. Martiri della Liberta', 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Iacopo Fabiani
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine Division, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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10
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Bonnecaze AK, O'Connor T, Aloi JA. Characteristics and Attitudes of Men Using Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS): A Survey of 2385 Men. Am J Mens Health 2020; 14:1557988320966536. [PMID: 33307930 PMCID: PMC7739101 DOI: 10.1177/1557988320966536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Additional characterization of patients using anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is needed to improve harm reduction and cessation resources for patients. Our group sought to expand upon the currently limited data regarding AAS use by performing a web-based survey assessing experiences of males using AAS. Participants included men over the age of 18 with history of AAS use within the past 5 years. Data were collected between August 2019 and April 2020. Primary outcome measures included age when starting AAS, dose of AAS, motivations for use, experiences with health-care professionals, and rate of successful cessation. The survey was accessed 3640 times, resulting in 2385 completed surveys meeting the inclusion criteria (68.93% participation rate). Average participant age was 31.69 ± 10.09 years. Over half of respondents were from the United States (n = 1271, 53.3%). Motives to use AAS included improving appearance (n = 1959, 82.2%), strength gain (n = 1192, 50%), and self-esteem/body image issues (n = 712, 29.87%). Participants rated physicians poorly, regarding knowledge of AAS (4.08 ± 2.23). Most participants did not reveal AAS use to their health-care providers (n = 1338, 56.1%); of those that did, 55.30% (n = 579) reported feeling discriminated against for their use. Of 46.16% (n = 1101) attempting AAS cessation, 60.22% (n = 663) were unsuccessful. Challenges in the management of AAS use include early onset of use, supraphysiologic doses used, and frequently present body image disorders stress. Distrust of health-care providers, poor cessation rates, and lack of physician training further exacerbate this. These findings should serve to reinforce previous calls to action for further research on the treatment of AAS use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex K Bonnecaze
- School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section on Endocrinology and Metabolism, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Thomas O'Connor
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Joseph A Aloi
- School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section on Endocrinology and Metabolism, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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11
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Perry JC, Schuetz TM, Memon MD, Faiz S, Cancarevic I. Anabolic Steroids and Cardiovascular Outcomes: The Controversy. Cureus 2020; 12:e9333. [PMID: 32850208 PMCID: PMC7444848 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.9333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Anabolic steroids (AS) are synthetic derivatives of the male sex hormone testosterone. The use of AS is not limited to bodybuilders and athletes, but non-athletes also use them. It is used to enhance athletic performance, induce muscle hypertrophy, and augment male sexual characteristics. AS use is associated with a wide range of side effects and potential cardiovascular complications. In this article, we have searched the available literature to investigate the association between AS use and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The results revealed that AS was linked to lipid metabolism derangements, hypertension, coagulation disorders, and cardiomyopathy. We concluded, based on the relevant data, that there was evidence that suggests an association with CVD, primarily myocardial infarction, fatal arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy in AS users. The general population should be informed of the risk. Also, methods of primary and secondary prevention should be implemented to mitigate the risk of CVD secondary to AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal C Perry
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Tayná M Schuetz
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Mohammad D Memon
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sadaf Faiz
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ivan Cancarevic
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) represents a group of synthetic testosterone derivatives that play an important role in clinical treatment. These drugs are widely abused among the general public to increase lean weight and improve athletic performance. It has been reported that AAS use can produce many adverse effects, especially the occurrence of cardiovascular risk. Although there are many related studies, there has been no consensus on AAS use and cardiovascular risk. The present study was to review the effect of AAS on the cardiovascular system. DATA SOURCES The data in this review were obtained from articles included in PubMed and the National Center for Biotechnology Information database. STUDY SELECTION Original articles, case reports, and systematic reviews about AAS were selected for the article. RESULTS The use/abuse of AAS is correlated with higher cardiovascular risks, and many AAS users/abusers had cardiovascular diseases. However, there are many confounding factors in the studies that explored the causality between AAS intake and disease development, and additional studies are required to determine AAS toxicity. CONCLUSION AAS produces toxic effects on the cardiovascular system, and it is necessary to ensure that more people know this about AAS, including medical personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Di Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
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13
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Kaufman MJ, Kanayama G, Hudson JI, Pope HG. Supraphysiologic-dose anabolic-androgenic steroid use: A risk factor for dementia? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 100:180-207. [PMID: 30817935 PMCID: PMC6451684 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Supraphysiologic-dose anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use is associated with physiologic, cognitive, and brain abnormalities similar to those found in people at risk for developing Alzheimer's Disease and its related dementias (AD/ADRD), which are associated with high brain β-amyloid (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (tau-P) protein levels. Supraphysiologic-dose AAS induces androgen abnormalities and excess oxidative stress, which have been linked to increased and decreased expression or activity of proteins that synthesize and eliminate, respectively, Aβ and tau-P. Aβ and tau-P accumulation may begin soon after initiating supraphysiologic-dose AAS use, which typically occurs in the early 20s, and their accumulation may be accelerated by other psychoactive substance use, which is common among non-medical AAS users. Accordingly, the widespread use of supraphysiologic-dose AAS may increase the numbers of people who develop dementia. Early diagnosis and correction of sex-steroid level abnormalities and excess oxidative stress could attenuate risk for developing AD/ADRD in supraphysiologic-dose AAS users, in people with other substance use disorders, and in people with low sex-steroid levels or excess oxidative stress associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc J Kaufman
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill St., Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Gen Kanayama
- Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill St., Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - James I Hudson
- Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill St., Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Harrison G Pope
- Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill St., Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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14
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Garner O, Iardino A, Ramirez A, Yakoby M. Cardiomyopathy induced by anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 2018:bcr-2017-223891. [PMID: 30037963 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2017-223891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bodybuilders use anabolic-androgenic steroids to increase muscle mass, but abuse of these hormones has been related to cardiomyopathy in the past. A 60-year-old Caucasian male bodybuilder with medical history of male hypogonadism and on testosterone replacement therapy, allegedly preparing for a weightlifting competition and receiving stem cell infusions from his trainer, is transferred to the intensive care unit for worsening shortness of breath after failing treatment for community-acquired pneumonia. Chest X-ray on transfer was suggestive of pulmonary oedema, and transthoracic echocardiography showed an ejection fraction of 25%-30%. The patient was taken for cardiac catheterisation, which yielded non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy. His testosterone levels were supratherapeutic. Anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse can be a cause of cardiomyopathy in patients who have no other risk factor for such disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlando Garner
- Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at the Permian Basin, Odessa, Texas, USA
| | - Alfredo Iardino
- Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at the Permian Basin, Odessa, Texas, USA
| | - Ana Ramirez
- Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at the Permian Basin, Odessa, Texas, USA
| | - Maty Yakoby
- Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at the Permian Basin, Odessa, Texas, USA
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