• Table of Contents

  • Side Effects of Drostanolone Propionate in Athletes
  • What is Drostanolone Propionate?
  • Side Effects of Drostanolone Propionate
  • Androgenic Side Effects
  • Estrogenic Side Effects
  • Other Side Effects
  • Real-World Examples
  • Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Data
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Side Effects of Drostanolone Propionate in Athletes

Drostanolone propionate, also known as Masteron, is a synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) that has gained popularity among athletes and bodybuilders for its ability to enhance muscle mass and strength. However, like any other performance-enhancing drug, drostanolone propionate comes with potential side effects that athletes should be aware of before using it. In this article, we will discuss the side effects of drostanolone propionate in athletes and provide evidence-based information to help athletes make informed decisions about its use.

What is Drostanolone Propionate?

Drostanolone propionate is a modified form of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It was first developed in the 1950s and has been used medically to treat breast cancer in women and to improve muscle wasting in patients with HIV/AIDS. However, it is more commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders for its anabolic effects.

Drostanolone propionate is available in both injectable and oral forms, with the injectable form being more popular among athletes due to its longer half-life and higher bioavailability. It works by binding to androgen receptors in the body, promoting protein synthesis and increasing nitrogen retention, leading to muscle growth and strength gains.

Side Effects of Drostanolone Propionate

While drostanolone propionate may offer benefits for athletes, it also comes with potential side effects that can be harmful to their health. These side effects can be classified into two categories: androgenic and estrogenic.

Androgenic Side Effects

As a DHT derivative, drostanolone propionate has a high androgenic activity, which can lead to androgenic side effects in both men and women. These include:

• Acne
• Hair loss
• Increased body hair growth
• Deepening of the voice
• Enlargement of the clitoris (in women)
• Prostate enlargement (in men)

These side effects are dose-dependent, meaning they are more likely to occur at higher doses. They can also be managed by using lower doses or by using other medications to counteract them.

Estrogenic Side Effects

While drostanolone propionate does not aromatize (convert to estrogen) in the body, it can still cause estrogenic side effects due to its ability to bind to estrogen receptors. These include:

• Gynecomastia (enlargement of breast tissue in men)
• Water retention
• High blood pressure

To prevent these side effects, athletes may use aromatase inhibitors or selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) alongside drostanolone propionate. However, it is important to note that these medications may also have their own side effects and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Other Side Effects

In addition to androgenic and estrogenic side effects, drostanolone propionate may also cause other side effects, including:

• Liver toxicity
• Cardiovascular issues
• Suppression of natural testosterone production
• Changes in cholesterol levels

These side effects are not unique to drostanolone propionate and are commonly seen with the use of other AAS. However, they can be managed by using the drug responsibly and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Real-World Examples

The potential side effects of drostanolone propionate can have serious consequences for athletes, as seen in real-world examples. In 2013, professional cyclist Levi Leipheimer was suspended for two years after testing positive for drostanolone propionate. He admitted to using the drug to enhance his performance but also stated that he was unaware of its potential side effects.

In another case, bodybuilder Rich Piana suffered a heart attack and passed away in 2017 at the age of 46. It was later revealed that he had been using drostanolone propionate and other AAS for many years, which may have contributed to his untimely death.

Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Data

The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drostanolone propionate have been studied in both animals and humans. In a study by Kicman et al. (1992), it was found that the half-life of drostanolone propionate in humans is approximately 2-3 days, with a peak plasma concentration occurring within 24 hours after administration. The study also showed that the drug is rapidly metabolized and excreted in the urine.

In terms of pharmacodynamics, drostanolone propionate has been shown to increase muscle mass and strength in both animals and humans. However, these effects are dose-dependent, and higher doses may lead to more severe side effects.

Expert Opinion

While drostanolone propionate may offer benefits for athletes, it is important to consider the potential side effects before using it. As an experienced researcher in the field of sports pharmacology, I have seen the detrimental effects of AAS misuse on athletes’ health and careers. It is crucial for athletes to educate themselves on the potential risks and use these drugs responsibly under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

References

Kicman, A. T., Brooks, R. V., Collyer, S. C., Cowan, D. A., & Hutt, A. J. (1992). Anabolic steroids in sport: biochemical, clinical and analytical perspectives. Annals of clinical biochemistry, 29(4), 351-369.

Leipheimer, L. (2013). Levi Leipheimer’s statement on his suspension. Retrieved from https://www.cyclingnews.com/news/levi-leipheimers-statement-on-his-suspension/

Piana, R. (2017). Rich Piana’s autopsy report. Retrieved from https://www.tmz.com/2017/09/05/rich-piana-autopsy-report-steroids/

Wu, C., Kovac, J. R., & Morey, A. F. (2016). Recent trends in the use of anabolic androgenic steroids by athletes. The World Journal of Men’s Health, 34(3), 157-166.