Pd28-01 Navigating the Crossroads of Androgenic-Anabolic Steroid Use and Depression

You have accessJournal of UrologySexual Function/Dysfunction: Evaluation I (PD28)1 May 2024PD28-01 NAVIGATING THE CROSSROADS OF ANDROGENIC-ANABOLIC STEROID USE AND DEPRESSION Aymara Evans, Francis Petrella, Russell Saltzman, Farah Rahman, and Ranjith Ramasamy Aymara EvansAymara Evans , Francis PetrellaFrancis Petrella , Russell SaltzmanRussell Saltzman , Farah RahmanFarah Rahman , and Ranjith RamasamyRanjith Ramasamy View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/01.JU.0001009380.44020.d3.01AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) impact multiple body systems, with global usage at 1-5%, higher in the US (2.9-4.0 million). AAS use is linked to cardiovascular issues, neurotoxicity, and psychiatric disorders while AAS withdrawal heightens mood problems and suicidality (30% attempted suicide). Our study examined AAS dependence in men seeking fertility treatment, revealing their perspectives on AAS withdrawal and mental health. Chronic AAS users face physical and psychological challenges tied to body image, self-esteem, and social pressures. The complex relationship between AAS use and depression, as both a risk factor and coping mechanism, is compounded by the risk of suicidality. The aim of our study was to understand the risk factors in men who chronically use androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) that put them at increased risk of relapse in AAS use, depression and suicidality. METHODS: Individuals with a history of anabolic steroid use seeking fertility treatment were administered surveys at three distinct time points: their initial appointment, the 3-month follow-up, and the 6-month follow-up. The initial survey encompassed inquiries regarding anabolic steroid use, and the assessment of depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ9). Subsequent surveys at the 3-month and 6-month intervals included questions pertaining to anabolic steroid usage, its influence on erectile function, fertility, risk factors associated with relapse, assessment of depression through the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and evaluation of suicidality using the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SRSS). RESULTS: At the initial presentation, the PHQ-9 scores obtained from a diverse population of individuals with a history of using anabolic steroids averaged 7.3, indicating a mild level of depression. Importantly, a wide range of depression scores were observed, reflecting the diversity of patient characteristics. Most patients had been using AAS for a duration of 7-10 years, with testosterone cypionate being the most used anabolic steroid. Most patients discontinued AAS usage based on their physician's advice to enhance their fertility. While a mild level of depression was detected, suicidal ideation was not highly prevalent. CONCLUSIONS: Our results collectively highlight the significant and complex relationship between AAS use and depression. In summary, our study reveals a compelling link between AAS use and depression among individuals seeking cessation of AAS, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding to effectively address the unique needs of this population. Men who are treated for infertility need evaluation of mental health and close follow-up beyond their fertility needs. Source of Funding: Supported by NIDDK grants R01 DK130991, UE5 DK137308, and Clinician Scientist Development Grant from American Cancer Society to Ranjith Ramasamy © 2024 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 211Issue 5SMay 2024Page: e612 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2024 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.Metrics Author Information Aymara Evans More articles by this author Francis Petrella More articles by this author Russell Saltzman More articles by this author Farah Rahman More articles by this author Ranjith Ramasamy More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...