Despite Its Ability to Cure Chronic Diseases, This Bodybuilding Supplement Got Banned in 2004

Steroids have been a controversial discussion in the recent past when it comes to bodybuilding.  This is primarily because of the increased use of steroids for building mammoth physiques. Moreover, the increased health issues and deaths as a result of heavy doses of steroid intake have garnered the discipline a critical lens. While anabolic steroids remain banned, an interesting incident happened when a dietary supplement called androstenedione was banned by the former President of the US George Bush when he signed the Anabolic Steroid Control Act, in 2004. 

Why was a dietary supplement banned under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act? Let us find out more about androstenedione and its effects that led to its ban. 

What is Androstenedione? 

Androstenedione, also known as ‘andro’, is chemically a hormone that is naturally secreted by the adrenal glands in the human body. In fact, the andro acts as a precursor that ultimately converts into the sex hormones—testosterone and a form of estrogen. Besides, andro is often manufactured artificially by pharmaceutical companies, and when taken in prescribed doses, can actually provide medical assistance to patients.

Earlier, bodybuilders used to administer andro to increase their strength while training and to augment their muscle growth. However, much to everyone’s surprise, research suggested otherwise. Studies have found that neither it boosts testosterone, nor it makes the muscles stronger. It instead has several serious risks and adverse effects when administered for a long time.

Read More | Does Bodybuilding’s Biggest Competition Mr. Olympia Allow Steroids?

Henceforth, androstenedione can be still prescribed by a licensed practitioner to treat chronic diseases but is not available over the counter as an enhancement drug. Now, let us have a look at the adverse effects of androstenedione. 

What are the adverse effects of androstenedione?

Andro got banned because some studies concluded that it may increase the complications in health and may contribute to serious health damage. When the FDA learned about these complications, the OTC sale of andro was banned. But what are the side effects of the drug? According to the Mayo Clinic, andro can cause some permanent damage to the body. Its effect can range from causing acne, and baldness, to testicular atrophy, impotency, deeper voice, and breast growth.

Whether it be andro or other steroids, they have been used extensively in bodybuilding around the globe. Recently, Bryan Johnson A.K.A ‘Liver King’ was caught buying HGH, while he used to claim he is all-natural. The bodybuilding fans and other celebrities trolled him and his followers to blindly believe his false refusals.

It is no surprise that steroids are used heavily and extensively in the bodybuilding fraternity. While some bodybuilding oldies have raised the issue multiple times, let us know what you think in the comment section.

Watch This Story: 4x Mr. Olympia Chris Bumstead Turns 28 Today Here Are the Top Bodybuilding Moments of Classic Man