The use of fluoxetine in depression associated with anabolic steroid withdrawal: a case series.
BACKGROUND
Depression can result from the discontinuation of high-dose anabolic steroids. Whether this type of depression responds to antidepressants in a manner similar to other types of depression is not clear.


METHODS
Four patients suffering from anabolic steroid withdrawal depression were treated with fluoxetine.


RESULTS
All four patients responded to fluoxetine in a time course consistent with the response of major depression to antidepressant medications.


CONCLUSIONS
Because of the widespread use of anabolic steroids, this type of depression may be more common than realized. Anabolic steroid withdrawal depression should be treated with antidepressant medications. Further study is encouraged.
Malone
D A
DA
Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195-5192.
Dimeff
R J
RJ
D000328:Adult; D045930:Anabolic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D005473:Fluoxetine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications
D045930:Anabolic Agents; D005473:Fluoxetine