Therapeutic use of anabolic-androgenic steroids includes which of the following?

• A. Therapy for male hypogonadism
• B. Increasing athletic performance in healthy individuals
• C. Treatment of infectious diseases
• D. Cosmetic enhancement only

Answer: (A)

Anabolic-androgenic steroids are used medically when there is a genuine deficiency of testosterone. The main therapeutic use is replacement therapy for male hypogonadism, where low testosterone causes fatigue, reduced libido, and loss of muscle mass, among other symptoms. This is a recognized medical indication because it aims to restore normal hormone levels and function. Using these steroids to boost athletic performance in healthy individuals is not a medical use and carries significant risks, not a treatment for infections, and cosmetic enhancement alone does not address a medical condition. So the best answer reflects the approved medical purpose: treating male hypogonadism.