TLDR Clinicians should use social and prescription data to track trends in performance-enhancing drug use.
This study investigates the trends in interest for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and related ancillary compounds, highlighting a significant rise in interest for selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) like RAD-140, while interest in anabolic steroids and post-cycle therapies remains stagnant or decreases. The authors suggest using social and prescription data as proxies to help clinicians better understand and adapt to these trends, given the lack of clinically relevant data and evidence-based approaches for monitoring PED use and its adverse effects.
23 citations,
April 2018 in “PubMed” Topical finasteride reduces hair loss and promotes hair growth in men and women.
40 citations,
July 2008 in “Drug Discovery Today” Current treatments for male pattern baldness include minoxidil and finasteride, with new options being developed.
441 citations,
May 2008 in “British Journal of Pharmacology” Anabolic steroids can build muscle and strength but have risks and need more research on their clinical benefits and side effects.
15 citations,
August 1999 in “Archives of Dermatology”
34 citations,
September 2020 in “BMC Endocrine Disorders” Existing drug dexamethasone may lower death risk in severe COVID-19 cases; more research needed for other drugs.
20 citations,
September 2005 in “Endocrinology” Certain changes to the B-ring of androgen receptor ligands can increase their effectiveness for potential treatments of muscle and bone conditions.
December 2022 in “Scientific Reports” Compound 4 is a promising treatment for hair loss with low toxicity.
June 2025 in “Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Gray hair can potentially be managed or reversed with treatments that boost melanin production and address nutritional deficiencies.
25 citations,
November 2014 in “Ageing Research Reviews” Skin aging is caused by stem cell damage and can potentially be delayed with treatments like antioxidants and stem cell therapy.
