Use, Misuse, and Addiction to Anabolic Steroids

"The prescription testosterone market in the United States is substantial and growing, with more than 5 million prescriptions written annually and an estimated $1 billion in sales. More striking still is the booming self- medication with testosterone supplements. Testosterone "boosters"-often herbal or vitamin‑based products-represent a $3.7 billion global market projected to nearly double by 2030.This means there are 3 million users in the United States, and epidemiologic studies suggest up to 30 percent of long-term AAS users may develop addiction,"

"Research in clinical trials and experiences in Olympic and professional athletes have shown that elevated T increases lean muscle mass, strength, and power. The evidence is so compelling that the Olympics and professional sports enforce bans on testosterone use because of the unfair advantage these AAS create. These bans to maintain fair competition are also part of AAS's allure among athletes, weekend warriors, and others."

Synthetic testosterone (anabolic‑androgenic steroids, AAS) is a Schedule III controlled drug prescribed for delayed puberty, adult testosterone deficiency, breast cancer, gender dysphoria, and other disorders. Prescription use exceeds five million annual prescriptions in the United States, generating about $1 billion in sales. Over-the-counter testosterone "boosters," often herbal or vitamin‑based, comprise a $3.7 billion global market with an estimated 3 million U.S. users. Lifetime AAS use is reported by 3–4% of men and 0.5–1% of women. Up to 30% of long-term AAS users may develop addiction, sometimes with co-occurring body image disorders. Elevated testosterone increases libido, energy, confidence, lean muscle mass, strength, and power, prompting bans in elite sports.

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