Polycythemia - 24 y.o. Man on Deca-Durabolin & Testosterone - Diagnosis & Management
Description
Polycythemia (increased red blood cells) and high iron are common on androgens, especially deca-durabolin and equipoise. But when is it a problem? What are the risks that make it a problem? In this video I answer these questions in the context of a case study: a 24 year old man who added deca-durabolin to TRT. His levels were normal on TRT, but increased on deca to levels associated with androgen induced erythrocytosis - technically not quite true polycythemia. However his iron levels increased significantly to 85% saturation which can affect the heart’s electrical system in dangerous ways. I cover how I diagnosed this, assessed his risks, and managed the condition. If you’ve seen changes in your CBC or iron on androgens or are considering them, please watch this video!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
00:00 - Intro
00:46 - CASE HISTORY & DETAILS
- 24 y.o. on TRT for 2 years after 3 years steroid use
01:45 - Adds 200-300mg/week deca to TRT
02:36 - Used for muscle - docs should understand this
03:05 - Baseline labs before deca - normal levels
03:40 - Consult & elevated labs, very high iron
05:53 - Why it’s unusual to see elevated ferritin
06:27 - WHAT’S GOING ON HERE?
06:50 - This is androgen induced erythrocytosis
07:38 - CAUSAL FACTORS
- Use of androgens, genes, age, sleep apnea, other factors
10:10 - RISKS - WHY CARE ABOUT THIS?
- DVTs, heart attacks, blood clots - rare but serious
12:30 - Hematologist: concern is depositing iron into organs
13:21 - WHAT DO YOU DO?
- Lower dose, stop deca & other steroids, check labs & risks
14:20 - Phlebotomize (give blood) once - not a long-term fix
15:25 - High RBC and iron will be bad long term, I’ve seen V-tach
15:58 - Electrophysiologist: iron is conductive & affects heart
Stay Strong and Healthy,
Dr. O
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As the Anabolic Doc, since 2003, I’ve provided men who are using or have used anabolic steroids a confidential, ethical and professional medical venue to discuss their use. I do NOT in any way support the use of any performance enhancing drugs - PEDs, anabolic steroid or other medicine for muscle building or body transformation. The “off-label” use of PEDs, as such agents is considered elicit and may lead to adverse health outcomes. Please consult an expert health professional regarding any medical agent and do NOT use any medicine without the explicit advice and supervision of an appropriate medical expert.
This video is for education and information only. This is not medical advice. Only take medications as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take illegal substances. Taking steroids can lead to serious health consequences.
#Polycythemia #Erythrocytosis #Deca-Durabolin #Testosterone
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