The relative ease with which amateur bodybuilders can acquire performance-enhancing drugs in Thailand has been a catalyst for a global drug trade that poses serious health risks. The unchecked supply of steroids from Thailand into the global market raises concerns over adulterated products and inconsistent quality control, which can result in dangerous health complications for users.
Using steroids increases the amount of testosterone that is produced by the body. This can lead to a number of health problems, including an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It can also affect the heart’s ability to pump blood, which can cause an increase in the likelihood of stroke and cardiovascular problems.
Many pharmacy outlets in Pattaya boldly advertise their stock of steroids on their shop-front windows. One, opposite a pub on Beach Road Soi 7, sells Andriol and Testoviron, two forms of anabolic steroid. These tablets contain methandienon, the same substance as the classic anabolic steroid Dianabol.
Chris, a New Zealand bodybuilder who divides his time between home and Pattaya, says that the availability of steroids in the city lures many people on what are known as’steroid holidays’. These are short visits aimed at bulking up for competitions. They are often accompanied by alcohol and prostitutes, which can add to the risks of steroid use.
The availability of steroids in Pattaya is aided by a lack of strict laws in the country, which allows pharmacies to stock them. The Tops Pharmacy on 2nd Road, for example, is well-known among amateur bodybuilders. It sells vials of Andriol and Testoviron at a fraction of the price that they are sold for online. Steroids Thailand