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More than anabolic steroids
Martin Chandler, Inter Agency Drug Misuse Database Manager, Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University
Abstract
Data from needle exchange monitoring across Cheshire &
Merseyside show a distinct increase in presentations by clients using
Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs (PIEDs) over the past fifteen years.
(The same data also show a decline in the number of people presenting
for other drugs such as opiates and stimulants.) There are a paucity
of reliable data on the effects and side-effects of PIEDs. Moreover,
it appears that many frontline needle exchange staff are frequently
unable to address queries by PIED using clients relating to their drug use.
Complicating this is the fact that this form of drug use is often
characterised by the simultaneous use of several substances. These
include drugs to counter side-effects of anabolic agents, "fat
burners", diuretics and other ancillary drugs. This presentation will
describe and explain the complex polydrug regimens used in the context
of PIED users' overall use of dietary sports supplements. Key substances will be examined in detail and core harm reduction points discussed.
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Biography
Martin has managed the Inter Agency Drug Misuse Database at the
Centre for Public Health in Liverpool John Moores University (UK) since
July 2004; monitoring service activity in needle exchanges across Cheshire & Merseyside. He is responsible for administering the database as well as
designing and implementing new monitoring systems and original,
collaborative research based on data held within these systems.
Martin
provides training around the use of Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs
as well as consultancy on data collection and performance monitoring
systems for local treatment and harm reduction services. Martin has
presented at both national and international conferences on a range of
issues around injecting drug use and has a number of published works in this area. He also provides training around the use of performance and
image enhancing drugs to health professionals, with a focus on service
provision for this client group.
Prior to joining the Centre for
Public Health Martin held research positions with the Royal Free Hospital
in London and the Centre for Investigative Psychology at Liverpool
University.
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