Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs (IPED)

Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs (IPED) are substances that are taken by people with the intention of improving their physical appearance and/or to enhance their sporting performance.

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For the most part body image, physical strength and size is the main motivation to use IPED. IPED can be taken by injection or orally (swallowed).

Risks are particularly high for young people. If IPED are taken while a person is still growing, they can cause a number of serious problems included stunted growth.

If a person is injecting, they also carry the risk of transmission of HIV and other blood borne viruses (BBVs) such as Hepatitis B and C. Injecting can also cause muscle damage, scarring and infections at the site of the injection.

Anabolic steroids and other similar IPED are Class C drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Before taking steroids, people should consider alternatives such as:

a healthy diet
protein and vitamin supplements

If you are planning to inject, please visit the harm reduction team to ensure you have enough clean equipment for your cycle.

Anabolic Steroids

Stimulates growth in muscle tissue, increases levels of testosterone

HCG (post cycle therapy)

Used to enhance the production of testosterone, which is often supressed by anabolic steroids.

Growth Hormone

To increase strength and recovery. Most commonly stacked with insulin.

Melanotan

Induce skin pigmentation, creating a tanned effect.

Beware of counterfeit substances

Injecting can lead to abscesses, infections and muscle damage

Some substances are not licensed to be used in the UK

Always use new equipment
Never inject more than 2ml into a muscle
Never share equipment
Prepare your substance on a clean surface
Always use the correct needle (see image or seek advice from our harm reduction service)
Oil based steroids should be warmed
Ensure your muscles are relaxed prior to injecting

Safer Injecting IPED