Anabolic-androgenic steroid

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are natural or synthetic hormones derived from testosterone, defined by a shared four-ring carbon backbone, that produce tissue-building (anabolic) and masculinizing (androgenic) effects. Laboratory testing verifies the chemical identity and concentration of AAS in a sample using analytical techniques like mass spectrometry, rather than measuring biological activity.

AAS testing is essential for consumer safety

Testing for anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is a vital safety measure because these substances frequently appear as undeclared ingredients in supplements, research chemicals, or mislabeled products. In unregulated markets, a product sold as a peptide might actually contain steroids. Analytical methods such as mass spectrometry detect AAS in a sample to verify what the product genuinely contains.

Key distinctions and safety warnings for AAS

• AAS are not SARMs: SARMs are a distinct class of compounds that aim for selective muscle binding and are not the same as steroids.
• AAS are not peptides: Peptides are short amino acid chains that share no chemical resemblance to the structure of anabolic steroids.
• Unexpected AAS results are serious warnings: A lab report showing unintended steroids is a major red flag. Misuse of AAS carries significant health risks, including cardiovascular damage, making it vital to verify that products are free from hidden hormones.

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