The rising visibility of steroids on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok has sparked questions about their safety and prevalence. According to a recent global meta-study, the estimated use of steroids among gym-goers varies significantly, with figures ranging from 6 percent in certain countries to as high as 29 percent in others. Timothy Piatkowski, a researcher from Griffith University in Australia, notes that over the past decade, the culture surrounding steroid use has evolved. Many fitness influencers now openly discuss their use of these substances and present themselves as knowledgeable guides for followers seeking optimal results.
Piatkowski emphasizes that the level of understanding regarding health risks among these influencers can vary widely. A quick glance at social media reveals divergent attitudes; some influencers acknowledge the dangers associated with steroid use, while others, such as those dubbing themselves “trenfluencers,” promote the use of trenbolone, a steroid historically used in livestock for muscle growth. This trend raises concerns about whether these substances are genuinely safe or if influencers are leading individuals towards hazardous choices.
Understanding the effects of steroids requires examining their pharmacological mechanisms. Anabolic androgenic steroids primarily stimulate the development of male sex characteristics, promoting muscle and bone growth. These substances are medically prescribed to treat conditions like muscle wasting associated with diseases such as HIV, where lower doses can be well-tolerated. Outside clinical settings, however, non-medical use often deviates from these cautious protocols, with users frequently opting for stacked combinations of drugs or cycling methods aimed at maximizing benefits while minimizing side effects.
The appeal of experimenting with steroid regimens often lies in the belief that such practices can mitigate potential health risks. Research indicates that the most concerning side effects are cardiovascular in nature. Anabolic steroids can elevate blood pressure and alter cholesterol levels, contributing to serious conditions such as cardiomyopathy, which significantly increases the risk of heart-related fatalities. A study conducted in Denmark revealed that anabolic steroid users had a threefold greater risk of death compared to their non-using counterparts.
Beyond cardiovascular issues, the psychosocial effects of steroid use can also be severe. The phenomenon known as “roid rage” can lead to aggressive behaviors and even psychosis in some users. Piatkowski states that an analysis of mortality among steroid users indicates three primary causes: cardiomyopathy, suicide, and homicide. This correlation remains complex, as it intertwines with factors like pre-existing mental health issues and substance abuse.
Despite the potential risks, many users turn to influencers and online forums for advice rather than medical professionals. This trend has been exacerbated by the ease of accessing various drugs on social media, ranging from selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) to synthetic growth hormones. The availability of these substances allows users to experiment with unregulated combinations, often without understanding the associated risks.
Research on the long-term effects of these practices is limited. Piatkowski and his colleagues are working to address this gap by collaborating with steroid users to develop studies that better reflect real-world usage patterns. Their findings reveal that more than 20 percent of steroid samples sourced from users contained hazardous contaminants, such as lead and arsenic, and over half were incorrectly dosed.
With the growing interest in steroids, there is an urgent need for more comprehensive research into their safety and efficacy. Medical professionals like Greg James, a clinician at Kratos Medical in Cardiff, UK, express concern over the lack of long-term safety data for emerging combinations of steroids and other substances, such as appetite-suppressing peptides. The evolving landscape of steroid use complicates efforts to provide informed medical guidance to patients.
To mitigate the risks associated with steroid use, researchers advocate for more longitudinal studies that track users’ health over time. Such research could help clarify the real dangers and offer safer usage guidelines. Piatkowski emphasizes the importance of engaging with users to understand their experiences, which can inform more relevant studies and intervention strategies.
Ultimately, promoting safer practices within the fitness community may require a shift in how steroid use is perceived. By collaborating with influencers and users, researchers hope to foster a more informed dialogue that prioritizes safety over stigma. As Piatkowski asserts, “Elevating and legitimizing knowledge in these communities is incredibly important,” suggesting that a more nuanced approach could significantly advance the field.
