Androgens, anabolic-androgenic steroids, and inhibitors

Abstract

Androgens are steroid hormones responsible for male sexual characteristics, testosterone being the principal androgen secreted by the testes. Androgens have both masculinizing and growth-stimulating or anabolic effects. Synthetic analogs of androgens have been used by professional, as well as amateur, athletes for possible performance enhancement. The subject of androgens, pharmacologic actions, organ system effects, therapeutic uses, adverse reactions, and abuse potential are reviewed.