posted Thu, 07/19/2012 - 05:58
1300
AAS and the Immune System
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I have a very simple question.
Do AAS increase immune function? I would assume they do, considering that is half the reason they are prescribed to HIV/AIDS patients. On the other hand, I keep finding information and "evidence" claiming that AAS both boost and slow down one's immune system. I have been reading into it a bit, more out of curiosity than for any other reason, and the dispute seems endless. So... I decided to say "fuck Google" and ask people who actually have experience with AAS. Haha. From experience and first-hand/self-education, what would you guys say? 
Thanks in advance for clearing this shit up.
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tread-mIt can do both depending on what compounds, how its used (or abused), how long you use it etc. There is no doubt it can suppress immune system to some degree given the proof in blood values on certain compunds etc. It can increase your immune system in some cases too but I tend to think the user and habits have much to do with it. I have personally had my immune system rockin hardcore in certain runs and very depleted in others. The use for Aids patients is usually for wasting to try and hold weight and as far as I know not really immune related in terms of its use there. I think its probably this, if you have good balance in hormones, even if that's higher balance in the axis side hormones, I think it benefits you, if you are out of balance, estro through the roof, cortisol sky high etc, you are compromised in the immune system IMO. So, proper compound use and proper control of the negatives (via AI, caber, water intake, good diet and supps, good cardio,salt reduction and so on)is likely the key.
Awesome answer, man. Thanks for the info. Yeah, what I was reading said that increased estrogen leads to the weakening of the immune system (in so many words), but it was very unclear about how testosterone in general and AAS affected it. That's partially why I assumed testosterone probably had a positive effect. Very good point on keeping a balance with hormones all the way around, man. Makes more sense to me now. After all, our bodies are always looking for homeostasis and a happy medium. Thanks again, man!
From my personal experience, I feel that my immune system does function better on cycle, and I get sick very less frequently. However, this is merely anecdotal. The research I've read suggests that many AAS decrease the function of the immune system. There are exceptions, however. In his book on Anabolics, William Llewellyn notes that nandrolone has a positive effect on our immune system. In addition, I've seen it also suggested that Primobolan has a similarly positive effect. The bodybuilding substance which seems to have the most research to suggest it will boost the functioning of your immune system isn't an AAS at all, it's human growth hormone.
Right on, man. Thanks for the info! Makes sense about the HGH. That stuff just seems to make the body happy in all kinds of ways, especially for the elder lifters/builders. Thanks for sharing the knowledge, brother!
Also, I assumed this issue was already addressed in the forum. I did look through a bit before making this post. I apologize if I managed to overlook the answers I am looking for.