Bodybuilders often take anabolic steroids to artificially increase their testosterone levels beyond the natural range.
While some individuals might have legitimately low testosterone levels warranting prescription anabolic steroids to return them to a healthy range, bodybuilders typically aim for supraphysiological levels, meaning levels far exceeding what the body naturally produces. This practice is associated with significant health risks.
Here's a breakdown of what bodybuilders might use to increase testosterone:
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Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS): These are synthetic versions of testosterone. They stimulate muscle growth (anabolism) and develop male characteristics (androgenism). Common examples include:
- Testosterone enanthate
- Testosterone cypionate
- Dianabol (methandrostenolone)
- Trenbolone acetate
- Winstrol (stanozolol)
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Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): SARMs are designed to be more selective than traditional steroids, targeting androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue with fewer side effects. However, they still carry risks and are often unapproved for human consumption. Examples include:
- Ostarine (MK-2866)
- Ligandrol (LGD-4033)
- Andarine (S-4)
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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): This hormone mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), signaling the testes to produce more testosterone. It's often used during or after steroid cycles to help restore natural testosterone production.
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Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs): AIs, like Arimidex (anastrozole) and Aromasin (exemestane), prevent the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. This is used to minimize estrogen-related side effects of steroid use, such as gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men).
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Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) Drugs: Following a steroid cycle, bodybuilders often use PCT drugs like Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and Nolvadex (tamoxifen) to stimulate natural testosterone production and help the body recover hormonal balance.
Important Considerations:
- Health Risks: Using anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs carries significant health risks, including cardiovascular problems, liver damage, hormonal imbalances, psychological effects, and more.
- Legality: The use and possession of anabolic steroids are illegal without a prescription in many countries. SARMs are often sold as "research chemicals" but are not approved for human consumption and are banned by many sporting organizations.
- Ethical Concerns: The use of performance-enhancing drugs raises ethical questions about fair competition in sports and bodybuilding.
In summary, bodybuilders commonly use anabolic steroids and other substances like SARMs, hCG, aromatase inhibitors, and PCT drugs to artificially elevate their testosterone levels and enhance muscle growth, despite the significant risks involved.
