Abstract
In a study of performance-enhancing substance use among 231 experienced young male weightlifters, we found that 27 (12%) reported illicit use of human growth hormone (HGH) or its bioactive derivative, insulin-like growth factor-1. All of these 27 men also reported use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and 22 (81%) met criteria for current or past AAS dependence. Fifteen (56%) also reported current or past dependence on opioids, cocaine, and/or ecstasy. These findings suggest that among young male weightlifters, illicit HGH use has become a common form of substance abuse, frequently associated with both AAS dependence and classical substance dependence.
American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Adolescent
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Adult
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Anabolic Agents / administration & dosage
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Anabolic Agents / adverse effects*
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Androgens / administration & dosage
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Androgens / adverse effects*
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Athletes / psychology*
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Doping in Sports / statistics & numerical data*
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Human Growth Hormone / administration & dosage
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Human Growth Hormone / adverse effects*
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Humans
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Insulin-Like Growth Factor I / administration & dosage
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Insulin-Like Growth Factor I / adverse effects
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Male
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Self Medication / statistics & numerical data*
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Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology*
Substances
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Anabolic Agents
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Androgens
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Human Growth Hormone
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Insulin-Like Growth Factor I