THE FREQUENCY OF MISUSE IN EGYPTIAN GYMNASIUMS FOR PERFORMANCE-ENHANCING PURPOSES: A TOXICOLOGICAL AND FORENSIC PERSPECTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY | ||
| The Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences and Applied Toxicology | ||
| Volume 25, Issue 3, September 2025, Pages 43-53 PDF (652.64 K) | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejfsat.2025.391094.1379 | ||
| Authors | ||
| Mokhtar Fathy Abdel-satar* 1; Sahar Y Issa2; Yasmin Gaber1 | ||
| 1faculty of medicine ,cairo university | ||
| 2Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology. Faculty of Medicine - Alexandria University | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Background: The misuse of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications for performance-enhancing purposes is a growing concern in gym settings globally, including Egypt. These substances, including anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and stimulants, are often used without professional guidance, posing significant health risks. Despite their prevalence, systematic research on this issue in Egyptian gymnasiums is limited. Aims: This study aims to assess the frequency, motivations, and patterns of OTC and prescription medication misuse among Egyptian gym-goers, with a focus on identifying demographic factors, sources of knowledge, and associated adverse effects. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an anonymous online questionnaire distributed among 500 gym members via social media. The survey captured data on demographics, drug types used, misuse frequency, motivations, sources of information, and reported side effects. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, with statistical significance determined at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Of the 500 participants, 30% admitted to misusing substances, with anabolic steroids being the most common (60%), followed by creatine (50%) and protein supplements (40%). Misuse was more prevalent among males (36.9%) compared to females (17.1%) and highest among the 18–24 age group (45%). Social media (40%) and gym trainers (35%) were the primary sources of information. Motivations included increasing muscle mass (70%) and enhancing workout performance (50%). Adverse effects, such as acne (40%), mood swings (30%), and liver/kidney issues (10%), were commonly reported. Conclusions: The findings highlight significant misuse of performance-enhancing substances in Egyptian gymnasiums, driven by social influences and a lack of professional guidance. Public health interventions targeting awareness and regulatory enforcement are urgently needed to mitigate health risks and promote safer practices. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Over-the-counter medications; Prescription drug misuse; Anabolic steroids; Gym drug use; Egypt; Toxicity | ||
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