A Case of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Dependence

Abstract

The anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are a family of hormones that includes the natural hormone testosterone, together with numerous synthetic testosterone analogs. When taken in higher doses and combined with exercise and proper nutrition, AAS cause users to gain muscle mass and lose body fat, even beyond naturally attainable limits. AAS have been used by competitive athletes since long but there has been an increase in its use in general population into a widespread form of substance misuse in the last few years. Here, we report the case of a 32-year-old male with AAS dependence, natural as well as synthetic, since last 10 years presenting to the outpatient department with insomnia and depressive features.