Androgen abuse

Findings revealed differences between the two groups indicating social recognition to be a stronger motive for exercising in AAS users; AAS users also indicated a greater drive for muscularity. As with previous studies, the primary motive for AAS use was to improve appearance. These data are complemented by in depth interviews with AAS users concerning their understandings of their initiation into drug use and their experiences with health care professionals. These interviews show that the issues surrounding anabolic steroid use are complex and multifaceted. Initiation into drug use took place either through loose networks formed around the gyms or as a result of being part of a social network that includes users. Access to drugs and information about drug use is also shared through these networks. All respondents had injected anabolic steroids and regarded injecting as functional. Injecting takes place in isolation, rather than being a social activity as with most other illicit drugs and this has the potential to reduce risks of blood borne virus infection. AAS users are subjected to a barrage of information but much is inconsistent or unrelated to local circumstances in Australia, leading to a high degree of contradiction and unreliability. However users appear to be highly motivated to increase their knowledge about the drug and its effects, and should respond well to an even handed, non judgemental health promotion intervention from a reliable source.