Neuro 342 Drugs and Behavior: Anabolic Steroids

man made analogs of male sex hormone testosterone

- schedule III drugs

What are androgenic anabolic steroids(AAS)?

- androgen deficiency syndrome

- delayed puberty in males

- endometriosis

- osteoporosis

Which disorders do anabolic steroids treat?

build muscle mass and improve athletic performance

Why are anabolic abused?

cyclin pattern(6-12 weeks w/ period of abstinence)

- reduce side effects

What are the patterns used with AAS?

simultaneous use of 2 or more AAS

What is stacking?

a low does(cruise) is used to bridge between each high dose(blast) of the steroid

What is bridging?

does is gradually increased to cycle midpoint and then gradually decreased

What is pyramiding?

6-12 week cycles

How often to individuals cycle AAS?

nandrolone decanoate(rolon)

- prodrug

What is an example of an AAS?

nandrolone

What is the active metabolite of nandrolone decanoate?

~ 7-12 days

What is the half life of nandrolone decanoate?

up to ~6 months

High doses of nandrolone metabolites can be detected for how long?

agonists

What does nandrolone act a at the androgen receptor?

increase beta endorphins in VTA

- reduced kappa opioid receptors

What does AAS use increase?

false

T/F AAS produce euphoria?

anterior hypothalamus

What is the rage center in the brain?

sudden eruption of intense anger or violent behavior

What is roid rage?

depression, suicide, violence, mania

AAS use associated with in increase ____________________?

characterized by false perception that user is weak and small

What is muscle dysmorphia?

reduces cortical volume and thinning

How does chronic use of AAS affect the brain?

increase muscle strength/volume

- increase libido

What are the physical effects of AAS?

- hypogonadism

- testicular atrophy

- reduced sperm prod.

- gynecomastia

What are the reproductive effects of AAS?

- high BP

- ventricular atrophy of heart

- increase RBC prod and risk for blood clots

What are the chronic effects of AAS in regards to cardiovascular health?