Gyms in Hyderabad caught selling banned drugs for bodybuilding

TGDCA conducted raids at 20 Hyderabad gyms, uncovering illegal sale of anabolic-androgenic steroids and cardiac stimulants like Mephentermine Sulphate injections. Misuse of these drugs in bodybuilding poses severe health risks, and legal action will follow under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act

Hyderabad: The Drugs Control Administration, Telangana (TGDCA), conducted a series of surprise inspections across several gyms in Hyderabad and detected multiple instances of illegal stocking and sale of anabolic-androgenic steroids and cardiac stimulants such as Mephentermine Sulphate injections for abuse in bodybuilding.

The DCA conducted surprise inspections at 20 gyms across the city, located in Secunderabad, Mehdipatnam, Tolichowki, Malakpet, Punjagutta, Narsingi, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, Madhapur, Kothapet, Kukatpally, and Suraram, in coordination with local police authorities on Friday.

---

The abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids poses significant health risks. These drugs, often misused by bodybuilders to enhance muscle growth, can lead to a range of adverse effects, including cardiovascular issues, liver damage, mood swings, and hormonal imbalances.

Moreover, long-term abuse can result in severe health complications such as infertility, kidney failure, and psychiatric disorders. Mephentermine Sulphate Injection is a cardiac stimulant primarily used to normalise decreased blood pressure (hypotension) that may arise from administering anaesthesia in spinal procedures during surgery.

It is crucial to note that only a doctor should determine the appropriate dose and duration of this medicine for each individual. However, Mephentermine Sulphate Injection, with its cardiac stimulatory action, is being misused to enhance endurance in bodybuilders, said Shahnawaz Qasim, Director, TGDCA.

Certain gyms are illegally selling Mephentermine Injection to gym-goers who misuse it to improve physical performance in competitive sports or bodybuilding. Abuse of prescription medicines such as anabolic-androgenic steroids and Mephentermine Sulphate Injections for bodybuilding can lead to various adverse effects, including cardiovascular disorders, and may even result in death if misused. Any gym found illegally stocking or selling prescription medicines will face strict legal action under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the DCA said.

The public can report such complaints to the DCA through its toll-free number 1800-599-6969, between 10.30 am and 5 pm on all working days.