[Use of anabolic androgenic steroids, growth hormone and erythropoietin by patients in general practice].

INTRODUCTION

The goal of this study was to investigate the use and side effects of anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs), growth hormone (GH), erythropoietin (EPO) and other enhancing drugs by patients in general practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a questionnaire, 702 general practitioners (GPs) in Denmark were asked to estimate the number of their patients who within the preceding year had admitted to using or were highly suspected of having used AASs, GH, EPO or other enhancing drugs. In addition, they were asked to describe the possible side effects of their use.

RESULTS

Of 571 eligible GPs, 119 had within the preceding year treated patients who had admitted to or were highly suspected of having used AASs, GH, EPO or other enhancing drugs. 182 users were reported by the GPs during that period; 180 (99%) were males, and 156 (86%) were between 20 and 40 years of age. 125 of the patients (69%) had admitted the use to the GP; AASs had been used by 123 patients (98%). EPO was not reported in any case, but GH had been used by 9 patients (7%). 127 (70%) of the patients had experienced side effects, and 87 (49%) had contacted the GP due to these side effects.

CONCLUSION

The use and side effects of AAS are commonly reported in general practice, whereas the use and side effects of GH and EPO seem to be uncommon. Their use is mainly by men under 40 years of age. The use of AAS is often connected with dermatological and musculoskeletal side effects. It is recommended also to consider possible use of AASs when consulted by a patient with unexplained symptoms of cardiovascular disease, psychological or sexual dysfunction, gynaecomastia or liver dysfunction.