The decision of the CFM responds to the request of health institutions concerned about the risks that these substances pose to health
The prescription of anabolic steroids, a type of synthetic testosterone-based hormone, and androgenic steroids, characterized as anabolic hormones, was banned on Tuesday by the Federal Council of Medicine (CFM) (11). The decision responds to a request from medical societies which, concerned about the risks that the prolonged use of these substances may pose for individuals, are asking for regulation.
“The specialist partners and associates of our companies are experiencing, in their daily lives, an increasing number of complications deriving from the abuse of hormones. At the same time, the diffusion of posts on social networks is growing and worrying, apologizing for the their use, transmitting false expertise and safety in its prescription, putting the health of the population at risk”, denounce the Brazilian societies of Cardiology (SBC), Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM), Exercise and Sports Medicine (SBMEE) and Urology (SBU ) and the Brazilian Federations of Gynecology and Obstetrics (Febrasgo) and Gastroenterology (FBG).
As the agencies point out, the off-label use of anabolic steroids for aesthetic and performance purposes can pose a serious public health concern. Therefore, they criticize doctors who choose “to work in areas with names that have a lot of marketing, instead of science, as well as not being recognized by any medical body (and in any country in the world), such as ‘anti-aging’ (‘anti -aging’), ‘integrative medicine’, ‘performance’ and ‘hormonal modulation'”.
What damage is caused to health?
The nutritionist Felipe França explains that the prolonged and unmonitored use of anabolic steroids and steroids can cause serious damage to the whole body, but mainly to the heart and liver, the latter being the organ responsible for the metabolism and elimination of chemicals from the body.
“When a person uses these substances, the liver is forced to work harder. The metabolic process involving these substances can cause oxidative stress, a process that occurs when cells produce unstable molecules called free radicals. These free radicals can cause damage to cells and tissues, leading to inflammation, premature aging and chronic diseases,” explains França, a specialist in oxidology and cellular biochemistry.
Another problem it identifies is the fact that some steroids and anabolic steroids are hepatotoxic. That is, they can directly damage the liver cells in the liver.
It is also considered to increase the risk of heart problems because these substances can raise blood pressure and cause changes in cholesterol levels. Additionally, França believes that people who use steroids tend not to give up old habits, such as drinking and smoking. The consequence is to have weakened cells.
Hyperactivity, ADHD and depression
It’s also important to highlight the great risk for people with mood disorders, such as hyperactivity, ADHD or depression. Its use can lead to an increase in episodes of mania, worsening of depression and mood swings and increased aggression”, adds Renata Brasil, sports nutritionist.
With all of these observations, it’s not hard to see why anabolic steroids aren’t right for everyone. As the specialist points out, it is essential to understand the objective pursued with each substance and to have a medical indication to use it, but not indiscriminately to achieve better training performance and aesthetic changes.
What are steroids and anabolic steroids for anyway?
Anabolic steroids are used to treat problems such as extensive burns, major surgery, malnutrition, and muscle wasting. Anabolic steroids are usually prescribed for osteoporosis, aplastic anemia, anemia resulting from chronic renal failure, and even cancer.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
