Name of the Procedure:

Anabolic Steroids; 1 or 2 (AS, Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids)

Summary

Anabolic steroids are synthetic variations of the male sex hormone testosterone. These compounds are used medically to treat certain hormonal issues, muscle loss disorders, and certain types of anemia. The procedure involves the controlled administration of these steroids to achieve therapeutic goals.

Purpose

Anabolic steroids are primarily used to treat conditions resulting from hormone deficiencies, such as delayed puberty, muscle loss from chronic illnesses (e.g., cancer, AIDS), and certain anemias. The goal is to promote increased muscle mass, strength, and the production of red blood cells.

Indications

• Delayed puberty in adolescent males
• Muscle-wasting diseases such as AIDS and cancer
• Severe burns
• Certain types of anemia like aplastic anemia or anemia of renal failure
• Osteoporosis-related bone pain in postmenopausal women

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to adjust their current medications under the guidance of their healthcare provider.
• Blood tests may be required to assess liver function, cholesterol levels, and other relevant markers.
• Fasting is generally not required unless specified by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. Medical Assessment: A thorough medical assessment is conducted to tailor the treatment regimen.
2. Prescription: Anabolic steroids are prescribed in the form of tablets, injectable solutions, or gels/creams.

3. Administration:

   • Oral: Tablets are taken as prescribed, usually with food to prevent stomach upset.
   • Injectable: Administered via intramuscular injection, commonly in the glutes.
   • Topical: Gels or creams are applied directly to the skin.

4. Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to monitor effects and adjust dosages if necessary.

Duration

The duration varies depending on the medical condition being treated. It can range from several weeks to months, under strict medical supervision.

Setting

Typically administered in an outpatient clinic or hospital setting, but oral and topical steroids can be managed at home.

Personnel

• Primary care physician or endocrinologist
• Nurses for injectable implementations
• Pharmacists

Risks and Complications

• Liver damage or liver tumors
• Cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and strokes
• Hormonal imbalances leading to infertility or changes in secondary sexual characteristics
• Mood swings, aggression, or other psychological effects
• Dermatological issues like acne and hair loss
• Potential for abuse and dependence

Benefits

• Improved muscle mass and strength
• Enhanced recovery and rehabilitation from muscle-wasting conditions
• Increased red blood cell production, improving oxygen transport and overall energy
• Bone density improvement in specific cases

Recovery

• Routine check-ups to monitor progress and side effects
• Blood tests to ensure liver and kidney function, cholesterol levels, and hormonal balance remain within safe ranges
• Potential need for gradual tapering of dosage to prevent withdrawal symptoms

Alternatives

• Hormone replacement therapies
• Nutritional supplementation and high-protein diets
• Physical therapy or supervised exercise programs
• Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents for anemia

Patient Experience

• Patients might experience a range of side effects from mild (acne, hair growth) to severe (mood changes, liver damage).
• Pain management strategies can include over-the-counter painkillers if injections cause discomfort.
• Continuous communication with healthcare providers is crucial for adjusting doses and managing any emerging side effects.