Athletes Taking Performance Enhancers More Prone to Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Miami, FL (AHN) – College athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs are more likely to abuse alcohol and recreational drugs, according to a new study.

Researchers at Rutgers University studied 234 male athletes and said that those who used substances ranging from steroids and stimulants to weight-loss supplements were more likely to admit to heavy drinking and taking marijuana and cocaine.

These athletes were also more prone to drug-related problems like missing classes, failing tests and getting into fights, the researchers said in a statement.

The researchers said that the findings could indicate that athletes who take performance enhancers may have more of a propensity toward “sensation seeking” than their fellow athletes.

The study was published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.