The Benefits and Implications of an Eight Week Anabolic/Androgenic Steroid Intervention at a Supratherapeutic Dose When paired with Resistance Exercise In Older Adults
Abstract
Anabolic and androgenic steroids (AAS) have for quite some time been considered a taboo
topic and one which has rarely been researched further since the Anabolic Steroid Act of
1990 deemed them to be a controlled substance. Since that time research within this area
has slowed down dramatically and the potential benefits as well as implications are rarely
discussed. Contrarily, stroke rehabilitation is an area for great interest and research. It is the
aim of the researcher to deem the safety and research the potential benefits of a
supratherapeutic dose (higher than would be used to treat a medical condition) of AAS
administered to an elderly research participant. AAS are widely recognised by literature to
be some of the safest drugs when used safely and correctly. They are also acknowledged to
have positive effects on individual health and wellbeing however it is also clear there is risk
for organ stress, particularly in relation to the cardiac system.
Inorder to establish safety and effectiveness of the interventions for use with stroke
survivors, we will assess the responses of age matched otherwise healthy individuals. This
pilot study will recruit 20 healthy, male, older adults (65+) to participate in an 8-week AAS
cycle paired with an 8 week resistance training program to assess physical function, mental
and emotional wellbeing. Upon completion of the trial, the researcher shall conclude whether
or not it can be deemed proof of concept to administer the drug in a follow up study, to those
who have suffered from stroke, based on its safety and overall effectiveness.