By Charmayne Allison, ABC News
Long-term steroid use poses serious health risks, including cardiovascular complications, liver dysfunction, kidney failure, and mental health issues. George Napper, a powerlifter, experienced these challenges firsthand. Just weeks after a heart attack brought on by steroid abuse, he found himself at a powerlifting tournament, grappling with the consequences of his decisions. “It was an absolutely idiotic decision,” he reflects. Napper admits he was so “amped up” on steroids that he didn’t think clearly.
Following that harrowing experience, Napper recognized he needed to change. Within a year, he began the difficult process of weaning off steroids, but he faced a significant challenge: a lack of clinical support. Most of his guidance came from friends at the gym, as he lamented, “We’ve got doctors who will give you all the information on heroin and other drugs. Why don’t we have the same level of support for this drug?”
Anabolic androgenic steroids, synthetic substances mirroring testosterone, can be used medically for specific hormone issues, but non-medical use is illegal in Australia. Despite this, steroid use in the country has surged dramatically. According to University of Queensland researcher Dr. Tim Piatkowski, reports of Australian steroid users increased nearly 40% between 2016 and 2023. Border detections also soared by 64% in 2020-21 compared to the prior year. Alarmingly, the health sector remains ill-equipped to address this spike. Piatkowski points out that Australia lacks standardized clinical guidelines for quitting steroids, emphasizing the need for effective support systems.
Napper, who resumed steroid use after being diagnosed with low testosterone, initially benefited from the temporary confidence-boosting effects of the drugs. However, he quickly escalated his dosage and began experiencing severe side effects, including difficulty breathing and insomnia caused by his swollen body. “Eventually, things do catch up,” he admits.
While side effects can vary, common issues associated with steroid use include water retention, increased aggression, hair loss, severe acne, and significant hormonal changes. Long-term repercussions can be even more severe. As Napper continued his steroid regimen, he sought medical help but often faced judgment from healthcare professionals, which discouraged open discussions about the issue.
Many steroid users, feeling stigmatized by the medical community, turn to online forums for guidance. Piatkowski warns that this can lead to inaccurate or even dangerous advice, with some users focusing more on short-term gains than long-term health. Quitting steroids carries risks, including severe fatigue, muscle loss, and depression. While “post cycle therapy” is discussed in some online communities, it lacks clinical approval and standardization as a recovery method.
Two years have passed since Napper’s life-altering heart attack, and he has successfully stepped away from steroid dependence. Although he reports feeling “a thousand times better,” he describes the journey as a “nightmare.” He insists that more information and support are crucial for anyone considering steroids. “If you abuse your body when you’re young, you’re going to pay for it when you’re older,” he warns. Young men still approach him in the gym seeking advice on steroid use, but his response remains firm: “Don’t.”
As Australia grapples with this public health issue, it is clear that enhanced support and understanding are sorely needed for those affected by steroid use.
Original Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/world/582811/steroid-use-is-exploding-in-australia-but-there-are-no-clinical-guidelines-on-how-to-quit
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Publish Date: 2025-12-28 08:16:00
