Androgenic anabolic steroids also impair right ventricular function

Int J Cardiol. 2009 May 1;134(1):123-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2007.12.027. Epub 2008 Feb 12.

Abstract

Chronic anabolic steroid use suppresses left ventricular functions. However, there is no information regarding the chronic effects of anabolic steroids on right ventricular function which also plays a key role in global cardiac function. The main objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of androgenic anabolic steroids usage among athletes on remodeling the right part of the heart. Androgenic-anabolic steroids-using bodybuilders had smaller diastolic velocities of both ventricles than drug-free bodybuilders and sedentary counterparts. This study shows that androgenic anabolic steroids-using bodybuilders exhibited depressed diastolic functions of both ventricles.

Publication types

  • Controlled Clinical Trial
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anabolic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Steroids / adverse effects*
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Right / chemically induced*
  • Ventricular Function, Right / drug effects*
  • Weight Lifting*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anabolic Agents
  • Steroids