Steroids Thailand
Despite stringent laws to regulate anabolic steroids domestically, Thailand is a key player in the global market. The unchecked flow of the drugs into the international market raises concerns for the health and safety of individuals who use them. Adulterated products, inconsistent quality control, and the absence of stringent regulations are contributing factors to this serious problem.
The seedy beachside Thai town of Pattaya lures thousands of amateur bodybuilders each year – but it’s not for the sun, sand or sex the beach resort is known for. Instead, it’s the ease and cheapness of acquiring performance-enhancing drugs that draws them back, and the promise of a ripped physique.
According to the Australian Crime Commission (ACC), steroids are one of the most common illicit drugs seized across the country, with Thailand identified as a major embarkation point for Australians heading to the region to obtain them. ACC investigators say they are contacted regularly by Australians who admit to travelling to Pattaya to purchase a range of illegal drugs, including steroids and growth hormones.
Many of the pills, gels and injectables advertised in pharmacies on Soi 7 are anabolic androgenic steroids – synthetic variants of the naturally occurring male sex hormone testosterone. Often, they are combined with other muscle-building drugs in a practice called “stacking”, or with weight loss medicines in a practice known as “cutting”.
Steroids are legal to possess in Australia under strict conditions but it is an offence to supply them without a licence. Prolonged steroid use can also damage the heart and blood vessels, cause hearing loss and lead to a variety of other health problems. Steroids Thailand