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 harmful effects can be lifelong. For students, the decline in health can have a negative impact on studies.

 

Doping involves the use of hormone preparations or drugs to alter the body or enhance performance. In gyms, it often concerns building muscle quickly, becoming stronger, or reducing fat to fit certain body ideals. Common substances include anabolic steroids (AAS) and ephedrine. 

Anabolic Steroids (AAS)

AAS is the most common doping substance. It is often taken in periods, known as “cycles.” Many initially experience positive effects such as rapid weight gain, increased muscle mass, and more energy to train harder. A larger and stronger body can boost self-esteem, and during a cycle, increased energy and sex drive are common.

After a cycle of steroids, one’s well-being usually worsens. Everyone who uses AAS experiences some form of side effect, sometimes after just a few weeks. Side effects may include:

  • Acne, hair loss
  • Shrunken testicles, impotence, enlarged breast tissue in men
  • Increased body hair, deeper voice, enlarged clitoris, reduced breasts, and menstrual irregularities in women
  • Aggressiveness and irritability
  • Low mood, anxiety
  • Sleep problems

Ephedrine

Ephedrine is used in connection with strength training to burn fat and increase energy. It is also often found in weight‑loss products as a fat‑burning ingredient. Ephedrine affects the central nervous system and can cause severe anxiety and worry, restlessness, sleep problems, tremors, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Its use can lead to dependence.
 

When should you seek support?

Seek support if you notice that your health, your relationships, or your studies are being negatively affected. There is good help available. A first step can be to talk to someone you trust.
 
  • Dopingjouren offers anonymous counselling and information about doping outside of sports.
  • Student health services can give you information about where to turn for help.
  • You can contact your local Youth clinic if you are under 23–25 years old, depending on the region.
  • Call 1177 to receive information about where to seek care in your region.

Are you worried about someone?

It can be difficult to bring up your concerns, but talking about doping can be an important first step for someone you care about. Describe what you have noticed and why you are worried, and explain how it affects your relationship.

You need to be aware that you cannot take responsibility for making the person stop, but your concern may still be important. 

 

Last updated: 2026-03-13