Systematic reviews and meta-analyses on androgen administration in humans: an umbrella review

Purpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans.Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption availablePurpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans. Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption availablePurpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans.Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption availablePurpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans.Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption availablePurpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans.Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption availablePurpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans.Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption availablePurpose of reviewThe present umbrella review systematically searches and synthesizes recent (2021-2023) systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) on androgen administration in humans.Results from 19 SRMA are synthesized. Four themes were identified: market for androgens, prevalence of androgen abuse, psychological effects of androgens, and clinical/therapeutic effects of androgens. One of three androgens on the illicit market are fake or substandard. Whereas one of three androgen users experiences dependence and various serious disorders, only one of three androgen users seeks physician support. Additionally, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression in healthy male individuals, and abuse positively correlates with interpersonal violence. Furthermore, androgen therapy is beneficial in treating persons suffering from various chronic diseases.In this umbrella review, we identified 19 SRMA on androgen use and abuse. Results show a high prevalence of fake androgens on the illicit market, a high prevalence of androgen abuse and dependence, and that a huge proportion of androgen users tend to avoid seeking support from clinicians. Also, androgen administration increases self-reported aggression among healthy male, and there is a positive correlation between androgen abuse and violent behavior. Finally, androgens have multiple therapeutic effects on various pathology.Papers of particular interest, published within the annual period of review, have been highlighted as:Synthetic testosterone, known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (androgens), are administered for various somatic and psychological effects. In medicine, androgens are used for treating various conditions such as hypogonadism and skeletal muscle loss. They have further been prescribed to patients with muscle contusion, breast cancer, and for the prevention of muscle wasting in patients suffering from diseases such as AIDS, osteoporosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1,2]. From the 1970s, androgens were abused [3] in supraphysiological doses by power athletes (e.g. weightlifters), later among athletes and then among nonathletes with the aim of improving performance and body image. In this regard, androgen abuse has been associated with dependence, with dependents showing various demographic inequalities [e.g. lower educational attainment and intelligence quotient (IQ), lower knowledge on androgens, longer cycle durations], and a higher likelihood of experiencing biophysical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial impairments as well as premature mortality, compared with nondependents and nonusers [4].With accumulating empirical research on androgens since the 1970s, several researchers have conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMA) regarding various aspects of androgens, including their prevalence, correlates, outcomes, content, and market. Umbrella reviews are at the echelon of the research synthesis hierarchy and present an aerial view of research findings on a topic [5]. Although the application of SRMA to synthesize research on androgens has increased in recent years, to our knowledge, no previous umbrella review has summarized these. In the present study, we conduct an umbrella review of recent (2021-2023; in line with the journal's focus) SRMA literature on androgen administration (clinical use as well as abuse) in humans. no caption available