Anabolic Steroid Addiction Treatment Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis, By Therapeutics (Antidepressants, Anxiolytics, Opioid Antagonists, Anti-inflammatory Drugs, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, and Online Pharmacies), and Regional Forecast 2025-2032

Anabolic steroids are synthetic forms of testosterone. Some of the health care providers prescribe these steroids to address hormone imbalances in men, delayed puberty, and muscle wasting associated with certain diseases such as muscular atrophy. However, some individuals misuse these anabolic steroids. For example, some of the athletes use anabolic steroids to build muscles and increase athletic performance. The steroids are addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms, including depression, loss of appetite, fatigue, decreased sex drive, and sleep problems. Rehabilitation is the long-term solution for individuals struggling with anabolic steroid addiction.

In addition, beyond involvement in the rehabilitation programs, some of the individuals who are addicted to anabolic steroids might find certain medications advantageous during their recovery journey. The growth of the global anabolic steroid addiction treatment market is mainly driven by the increasing regulatory approvals and product launches for providing symptomatic relief for patients with anabolic steroid addiction.

• For instance, in September 2023, the U.S. FDA approved Exxua (gepirone), an extended-release capsule used to relieve depressive symptoms. Such medications can be used for the management of withdrawal symptoms of anabolic steroid abuse.

Furthermore, the market for anabolic steroid addiction treatment is influenced by various factors, including increasing awareness about the health risks associated with steroid abuse, stringent regulations on steroid distribution, and advancements in treatment options. Moreover, the development of novel pharmaceuticals and therapies specifically targeting steroid addiction is driving market growth.

The rise in cases of steroid abuse among athletes and bodybuilders led to a greater demand for effective treatment programs and therapies.

• For instance, as per data provided by the National Institutes of Health in December 2023, the rates of anabolic steroid abuse vary, with approximately 5.0% of gym-goers and 25–50% of competitive bodybuilders reported to be using them. The high prevalence rates are also observed in the U.S. and the U.K.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic had a slightly negative impact on the global anabolic steroid addiction treatment market in 2020. This was due to limited individual access to treatment centers or support groups, potentially reducing the number of people seeking help for anabolic steroid addiction.  

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• New Product Launches, By Key Players
• Key Industry Developments (Mergers, Acquisitions, Partnerships, and Others)
• Pipeline Analysis, By Key Players
• Overview: Rates of Anabolic Steroid Users, By Key Countries/Region
• Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Anabolic Steroid Addiction Treatment Market

Segmentation

Analysis by Therapeutics

Based on therapeutics, the market can be segmented into antidepressants, anxiolytics, opioid antagonists, anti-inflammatory drugs, and others. The antidepressants segment accounted for a significant proportion of the anabolic steroid addiction treatment market in 2023. The growing anabolic steroid abuse is associated with depression and suicidal thoughts. The increasing regulatory approvals for the treatment of depression associated with anabolic steroid abuse is one of the key factors responsible for segmental growth.

• For instance, in April 2022, Lupin Ltd announced the U.S. FDA approval of its generic version of Desvenlafaxine extended-release tablets used for depression treatment.
• Similarly, in March 2019, Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC introduced a generic version of Prozac (fluoxetine) tablets. This drug is used for the treatment of depressive disorders.

Similarly, the anxiolytics segment accounted for a significant market share in 2023. This has been recorded as various market players are engaged in the development and launch of anxiolytics drugs to reduce anxiety associated with anabolic steroid addiction.

Regional Analysis

North America dominated the global anabolic steroid addiction treatment market in 2023 and is expected to maintain its position over the forecast period. The region's highest growth is mainly due to the rising prevalence of anabolic steroid abuse across the U.S. and Canada. The increasing consumption of anabolic steroids ultimately led to the increasing population suffering from anabolic steroid addiction.

• For instance, as per data provided by WebMD LLC in January 2024, nearly 3.0 to 4.0 million individuals in the U.S. are using anabolic steroids without a prescription for non-medical reasons.

In addition, several government authorities are advising consumers not to use unauthorized products containing anabolic steroids, which is another factor contributing to market growth across North America.

Furthermore, the Europe market is anticipated to experience significant growth during the forecast period. The expansion is mainly driven by the launch of an awareness campaign regarding the harmful effects and threats of anabolic steroids on health across the region.

• For instance, in November 2023, the World Anti-Doping Agency launched a campaign named as NaturalIsEnough to increase awareness regarding the growing use of anabolic steroids and their threat to health. The NaturalIsEnough campaign was aimed at encouraging the young population to dedicate themselves to a healthy lifestyle devoid of anabolic steroids.

Furthermore, the growing prevalence of anabolic steroid abuse among the young population is one of the factors contributing to the regional growth across Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa.

Key Players Covered

The report includes the profiles of anabolic steroid addiction treatment market key players such as Eli Lilly and Company, Pfizer Inc., Aurobindo Pharma, Healthy Life Pharma Private Limited, and Mallinckrodt plc.

Key Industry Developments

• In March 2023, Alembic Pharma received regulatory approval from the U.S. FDA to market a generic antidepressant medication in the American market.
• In December 2021, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories introduced the therapeutically equivalent version of Osmotica Pharmaceutical's Venlafaxine extended-release tablets to the U.S. market.
• In April 2020, Aurobindo Pharma announced approval from the U.S. FDA to manufacture and distribute Fluoxetine tablets in the U.S. market.