Impaired Baroreflex Sensitivity in Anabolic Steroid Users

Abstract

Purpose: Exacerbated sympathetic nerve activity and increased blood pressure have been documented in anabolic androgenic steroid users (AASU). We tested the hypothesis that arterial baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) and carotid distensibility would be reduced in AASU. Methods: Ten AASU and 10 age-paired anabolic androgenic steroid nonusers (AASNU) were studied. Both groups were involved in strength training (90% 1MR) and AASU were self-administered anabolic steroids for at least 2 years. The use of AAS was proved by urine. Heart rate (HR) was evaluated by EKG and blood pressure non-invasively on a beat to beat. BRS was analyzed by time domain through spontaneous fluctuations between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and HR. Carotid artery distensibility was measured by doppler (M-mode). Results: HR was higher in AASU compared to AASNU (69±3 vs. 59±3 bpm, P≤0.05). Systolic (123±4 vs. 118±2 mmHg, P=0.29), diastolic (72±2 vs. 67±2 mmHg, P=0.12) and mean blood pressure (90±3 vs. 85±2 mmHg, P=0.15) were not different between groups. BRS for increases (14.2±2 vs. 22.8±3 msec/mmHg, P=0.05) and decreases (13.3±1 vs. 19.2±2 msec/mmHg, P=0.04) were lower in AASU. Carotid distensibility was reduced in AASU (7±1 vs. 9±1 %, P≤0.05). Conclusion: Impaired BRS and reduced carotid distensibility may prematurely lead to increased cardiovascular risk in AASU.