Anabolic Steroids and Psychiatric Symptoms Part 5

Psychosis

Psychosis has been reported in at least 5-20% of individuals who take anabolic steroids. The higher the dose, the greater the likelihood of psychosis. In all cases, the psychosis subsides when the steroid is discontinued.

Most studies have shown that the episodes of psychosis tend to peak during the on-cyclic phase. Individuals who have a predisposition personality are more likely to develop these psychotic episodes.

Psychosis presents in varied ways in individuals who take anabolic steroids. In some cases, the individual develops paranoia and feels that the whole world is conspiring against him. Others develop grandiose perceptions of invincibility.

Often the psychotic episode is associated with intense mania. When the steroid is discontinued, the symptoms of psychosis gradually disappear although some degree of paranoia persists for years. In many cases, individuals have required anti-psychotic medications to treat the paranoia.