Counterfeit Anabolic Steroids in Brazil: A Forensic Perspective on Quality and Risks

Abstract

The illicit use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) poses a significant global health challenge, particularly due to the widespread availability of counterfeit products in underground markets. This review examines AAS seized in Brazil, a country with a notable prevalence of use, especially among gym and sports center attendees. Thus, the main objective of this brief review is to map studies published on the seizure and chemical analysis of AAS sourced from the underground market in Brazil. A comprehensive analysis of studies revealed high levels of adulteration in seized products, including the absence of declared active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), the addition of undeclared substances, and contamination with harmful agents such as toxic chemicals or biological impurities. Many of these products significantly diverged from their labeled composition, leading to risks of therapeutic failure, unexpected side effects, or potentially severe health consequences, such as cardiovascular toxicity or organ damage. The findings align with international trends, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to address this issue. Regulatory agencies and law enforcement must enhance their collaboration to prevent the production and distribution of counterfeit AAS. Additionally, the implementation of advanced forensic methodologies, such as chromatography and spectrometry, is essential for identifying adulterated products and ensuring safer oversight of these substances. Public awareness campaigns are equally critical, aiming to educate consumers on the dangers of counterfeit AAS and discourage their use. This review underscores the pressing need for multidisciplinary approaches that include rigorous regulation, education, and research into harm-reduction strategies. Protecting public health requires a comprehensive understanding of the risks posed by illicit AAS and concerted efforts to mitigate their impact.