Doping

Are you striving for the perfect body? Do you think that hormone preparations are a good shortcut to bigger muscles? Doping substances are used both in elite sport and at the gym.  However, the risk of both physical and mental side effects from doping substances is very high and some of the side effects can be lifelong. For students, the deterioration in health can have a negative impact on studies.

An illustration of a dumbbell and pills

 

Doping involves the use of hormone preparations and drugs to change the body and increase its physical performance. For those who work out, there is often a desire to achieve body and beauty ideals by quickly building muscle and becoming stronger, or burning fat to become leaner. There are several different substances that produce different effects, and these include anabolic steroids and ephedrine.  

Anabolic Steroids (AAS)

AAS is the most common doping substance. It is often taken in periods, as a so-called course. Many people experience positive effects in the form of rapid weight gain, increased musculature and more energy to train harder. A larger and stronger body can increase self-esteem and, during a course, increased energy and higher sex drive are common.

After a course of steroids, there is usually a deterioration in well-being. Everyone who uses AAS has some kind of side effect, sometimes after just a few weeks. It can involve physical problems such as acne and head hair loss, but also shrunken testicles, potency problems and enlarged mammary glands. Other side effects may include increased body hair, a deeper voice, an enlarged clitoris, reduced breasts and menstrual disorders. Psychological problems such as aggression, anxiety, depression and sleep problems are common. 

Ephedrine

Ephedrine is a medicine that is used in conjunction with strength training. It burns fat and provides increased energy. Ephedrine is also often found in diet pills as a fat burning ingredient. Ephedrine affects the central nervous system. It can cause psychological problems in the form of strong anxiety, as well as restlessness that can lead to sleep problems. Tremors, headaches and vomiting are other side effects. The use of ephedrine can lead to dependence.

When should you seek help?

If you notice that your health, your relationships or your studies are adversely affected, and it may be a side effect of doping, do not hesitate to seek support. A first step may be to talk to someone you trust.

There is help available to deal with doping problems. The student health service can give you information about where you can turn. If you are under the age of 23, or under 25 in some regions, you can also seek help at the youth guidance centre. 

Are you worried about a friend?

If you are worried about someone’s use of doping substances, it can feel difficult and uncomfortable to talk about it. However, if you feel you want to try to help your friend make a change, you can still talk to them about their use of doping substances. Tell them that you are worried and tell them specifically what it is about their behaviour that concerns you and how it might affect your relationship. It’s not your responsibility to get the person to stop or get help, but your desire to help could mean a lot to your friend.