Painkillers and anabolics...

[orangutan]

How many of u guys take some kind of hardcore painkiller like vicodin/percodin/oxy?....i was wondering how they affect u as far as ur body and working out with aas? i know many guys who are addicted to them but i always wondered what the deal was with testosterone and opiates...

 

[B5150]

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Opioids and Male Endocrine Function

Nathaniel Katz[9] discussed the impact of long-term therapy with opioids on male endocrine function. He noted that the feminizing effects of opioids on men have been known for centuries, and studies indicate that testosterone levels are reduced in heroin and methadone users. The symptoms of low testosterone include decreased libido, fatigue, depression/anxiety, loss of muscle mass/strength, osteoporosis, and alterations in the male role.

Dr. Katz reviewed data from his patients showing that in opiate users, total testosterone was half that of nonusers and free testosterone was one third that of nonusers. Older age was also a significant factor leading Dr. Katz to conclude that age-related declines in testosterone may be accelerated in opiate users. Because nearly all those taking opiates had hypogonadism, Dr. Katz recommended that patients should undergo routine endocrine screening. In addition, clinical practice guidelines should be developed for the management of opioid-induced hypogonadism.

 

[Filthy McNast]

I was on Vicodin for about 3 years due to back issues. It's bad to say but I got use to popping a vicodin, irregardless of whether I felt any pain or discomfort, before I hit the weights every time I lifted for about 18 months straight. My theory was that I would have better lifts because I wouldn't feel the pain as much. I've been off of vicodin for about 4 months now and still lifting and I honestly think the vicodin was impeding my progress. I read that post above about decreasing test levels and that may be the culprit I suppose. My gains have been much better since I stopped taking the vicodin. Mentally, it was a challenge after having popped a vicodin for every workout for 18 straight months, but after the first few weeks of working out without it, I realized I don't need it and my muscle and strength gains have been more impressive since I've stayed away from it.