PSY 853 PRESENTATION ndash; Chapter 14.ppt

PSY 853 PRESENTATION – Chapter 14 Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids Androgenic-anabolic steroids Androgenic-anabolic steroids are chemicals related to the male hormone testosterone. They have: Muscle –building (anabolic) effects Masculinizing effects Steroids and Body Functions Steroids affect body functions by: Overwhelming the system that regulates levels of testosterone including the testes, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. Shut off production of gonadotropin-releasing factor (GRF), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Shut off process of spermatogenesis. Anabolic Steroids In summary, anabolic steroids: Block the normal process that regulates spermatogenesis, testosterone, and male fertility. Exert peripheral hormone actions to increase muscle mass and produce a more masculine appearance. Exert central effects that increase aggression. Steroids and Muscles Steroids increase muscle mass by: Steroids enter the blood stream and pass through cell walls of target tissues. Attaches to steroid receptors in the cytoplasm of the cell. The hormone-receptor complex moves into the nucleus of the cell, attaching to DNA. Genetic transcription occurs, producing RNA, a new messenger. RNA translation results in the production of specific new proteins that leave the cell and mediate the biological functions of the hormone. Increased protein synthesis = increased muscle mass. Withdrawal Withdrawal from anabolic steroids can be accompanied by psychological depression, fatigue, restlessness, insomnia, loss of appetite, and decreased libido, however no defined withdrawal syndrome has been described, although depression is commonplace. Similar to all psychoactive drugs, treatment of steroid dependence requires abstaining from the drug, treating withdrawal symptoms, and maintaining drug abstinence. Users The two most frequent users of steroids are teenage and young adult males and competitive athletes. Similarities Both use the drug to