Health
Men abusing muscle-building supplements risk infertility, say pharmacists
Iyanuoluwa Abiola
Pharmacists have warned young Nigerian men that the misuse of muscle-building supplements, particularly steroid-based products sold through online platforms and other outlets, could increase their risk of kidney damage, diabetes, infertility, hormonal imbalances, and other serious health conditions.
The pharmacists who spoke during exclusive interviews with PUNCH Healthwise noted that many young people use the products to achieve rapid muscle growth due to peer pressure, the desire to improve their appearance and the demands of professions such as bodybuilding, security work and modelling without fully understanding the health risks involved.
One of the pharmacists and Chief Executive Officer, Engraced Pharmacy, Lagos, Jonah Okotie, said while protein-based supplements such as whey protein and creatine are generally safe when used appropriately, steroid products pose greater health risks because many users prefer them for faster results.
“It depends on the type of supplement being used. Whey protein and creatine are relatively safe when used appropriately. However, many people prefer steroid products because they produce faster results. The problem is that steroid use increases health risks significantly. That is why you often hear of some bodybuilders dying at a young age,” he stated.
Okotie warned that prolonged misuse of steroids could lead to heart disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalance, infertility, high blood pressure, arthritis and weak bones, adding that some of the complications could become permanent.
The pharmacist added that users may initially develop puffy faces, skin rashes, swelling and irritation before suffering more serious health complications.
Okotie advised consumers to obtain muscle-enhancing products only from registered pharmacies and reputable outlets.
“The number one guarantee of quality and safety is where you buy the product. Always purchase from registered pharmacies or reputable outlets. Anyone can sell products online and make false claims,” he counselled.
The pharmacist also urged young people to think carefully before taking any muscle-enhancing product.
“My advice is that young people should think critically before taking any supplement. Research the product, ask qualified professionals questions, and understand the possible risks before using it. Don’t take something simply because someone else is using it or because of what is written on the label,” he further advised.
Also speaking, Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer, Welnex Pharmacy, Lagos, Chioma Omattah said steroid-based products could damage the kidneys, interfere with blood sugar regulation and weaken the body’s immune system.
“The most common danger is the impact on the kidneys, especially when these products are taken above the recommended dietary allowance. Steroid products can directly affect kidney function and also increase a person’s chances of developing diabetes because they interfere with blood glucose metabolism,” the pharmacist noted.
According to Omattah, pharmacists also frequently attend to people with elevated blood pressure, muscle and joint pains, fatigue, general body weakness and stomach-related complaints linked to the misuse of bodybuilding products.
She explained that while natural protein supplements such as whey protein and amino acid powders could be used safely under the supervision of qualified health care professionals, steroid products should be avoided because of their harmful effects.
Omattah said short-term misuse of steroids could result in acute kidney injury, water retention, swollen legs, puffy face and elevated blood pressure, while prolonged use could lead to diabetes, weakened immunity, hormonal imbalance and infertility.
“When these products are taken wrongly, they can disrupt the body’s normal hormonal balance. In women, they can affect estrogen and progesterone levels, interfere with the reproductive system and reduce fertility,” she said.
The pharmacist also expressed concern over the growing sale of bodybuilding supplements by unverified vendors, warning that many consumers purchase medications without proper professional guidance.
Omattah also urged Nigerians to avoid buying medicines from unverified sellers, stressing that medications should only be obtained from licensed pharmacists.
“Medicines are not like candy or ice cream. They can change the way your body functions and, if used wrongly, they can damage the kidneys and other organs,” she noted.
She advised Nigerians to seek professional guidance before taking any muscle-building supplement, including products sold over the counter, noting that pharmacists are trained to identify possible side effects, harmful drug interactions and the appropriate use of medications.
On safer alternatives, Omattah encouraged young people to build muscle through regular exercise, strength training and proper nutrition rather than relying on steroids for quick results.
“The safest and most sustainable way to build muscle is through regular exercise, particularly strength and weight training.
“Building muscle through consistent workouts is healthier, more sustainable and far safer than relying on steroid products for rapid results,” she said.
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