Cardiotoxic effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids

Abstract

Anabolic Androjenic streoids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone which promote growth of skeletal muscle (anabolic effect) and the development of the male sexual characteristics (androgenic effects). Illegally, these drugs are regulary self-administered by power lifters and bodybuilders to enhance their sportive performance. Abuse of AAS has been linked to a variety of different cardiovascular side effects. In case reports, acute myocardial infarction is the most common event presented, but other adverse side effects include left ventricular hypertrophy, reduced left ventricular contractile function, hypertension, arterial thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, endothelial dysfunction, alterations of lipid metabolism, life-threatening arrytmia and several cases of sudden cardiac death. However, to date, there are no prospective, randomized, interventional studies on the long term cardiovascular effects of abuse of AAS. In this review, we have tried to summarize recent literature and our recent observations in experimental animals related to AAS-induced cardiotoxicity. Additionally we will discuss possible mechanisms of this adverse effect.