Intro: Myths, Lies & Truths About Testosterone & Anabolic Steroids

This blog will be released in 5 parts over 4-5 weeks:

Introduction

•  Part 1: The History of Anabolic Steroids
•  Part 2: Why the Fear Around Anabolic Steroids?
•  Part 3: Testosterone Analogs
•  Part 4: Testosterone alternatives (SARM), Clomid, hCG, GnRH

Understanding Testosterone, Anabolic Steroids, and the Science Behind Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Misinformation about testosterone and its synthetic analogs (anabolic steroids/AAS) is widespread. Surprisingly, even scientific literature has contributed to this confusion. Over 50 years ago, two published studies claimed that AAS had no impact on muscle growth (23,24).

However, these early studies were methodologically flawed—using low dosages, short durations, and inadequate resistance training protocols. Did the researchers have an agenda, designing their studies to produce a predetermined outcome? Possibly. Regardless of intent, these misleading and incorrect conclusions were later disproven by well-designed studies in the 1980s and beyond.

When Science Gets It Wrong

How is it possible for science to be wrong? After all, weren’t we urged during the COVID-19 pandemic to “Follow the science”? The reality is that not all scientific studies are created equal. 

Poorly designed studies with flawed conclusions exist and often fail replication—a critical test of scientific validity. In an essay published in PLoS Medicine / August 2005 | Volume 2 | Issue 8,  Stanford University professor John Ioannidis, PhD wrote, “There is increasing concern that in modern research, false findings may be the majority or even the vast majority of published research claims. (25,26). 

The vitriol against Ioannidis on his views and research during the COVID-19 pandemic was severe as many scientists refused to consider another, and different, analysis of the data because it opposed their politically driven agenda. More and more, we are seeing the aggressive suppression of science and analysis of data that does not agree with a particular political group.

The phrase “Follow the science” was often misused to mean “Follow the science that aligns with our particular agenda.” It was used to manipulate behavior. A more accurate principle would be:
“Follow the good science, not the bad science.” Importantly, even good science evolves as new knowledge emerges.

Balancing Risks and Benefits

All medications have a risk-to-reward ratio, and higher doses and improper use increase the risks significantly. Testosterone and its synthetic analogs are no exception.

•  When properly prescribed and monitored by a knowledgeable physician, their benefits can be transformative.
•  When misused or abused without medical supervision, the risks can become severe, even life-threatening.

The Purpose of This Blog

This blog aims to be a definitive resource on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), covering both testosterone and its synthetic analogs.

A comprehensive review of the scientific literature on male HRT and recreational use was conducted for this blog, though it remains an evolving field. Over 50  papers were identified and analyzed using search terms such as: testosterone, anabolic steroids, HRT, history of testosterone synthesis, erectile dysfunction, Deca-Durabolin, nandrolone and many others.

At the Julian A. Jarman, MD Research Foundation, a non-profit Men’s Health Foundation, understanding HRT, testosterone, and its analogs is a core priority. Providing accurate, science-backed information empowers men to make informed decisions about their health.