Men who stopped using anabolic steroids saw their thickened heart muscle return to normal, but their hearts still pumped less strongly than those of men who never used the drugs, according to a small long-term study from Oslo University Hospital. The findings, published in the European Heart Journal: Cardiovascular Imaging, come from a follow-up of recreational strength athletes about seven years after they first enrolled. Men who kept using steroids, even at lower doses, showed ongoing heart strain.
For gym-goers who use or are considering anabolic steroids, the message is practical rather than judgmental. Heart damage may not cause obvious symptoms, and some of it may persist after stopping. The study also suggests that quitting completely, with medical support, is the step most likely to help the heart recover.
