The customs authorities here have foiled an attempt to smuggle 2,500 ampoules of testosterone hormone into the country, an official source said yesterday.
"The drug was shipped to the country in postal parcels from India, with the aim of promoting it among young bodybuilders in local clubs and bodybuilding gymnasiums," said Dr Eisa Al Mansouri, director of the pharmaceutical control at the Health Ministry.
The drug and other steroids are abused by young people who want to gain muscles and build their bodies, he added.
"However, these drugs have serious effects on physical and psychological health.
"Unauthorised use of them can lead to kidney failure and lower good cholesterol levels, increasing the risk for heart disease.
"The drug also reduces or eliminates sexual desire. In addition, patients may experience decreased bone density and general body pain.
"Some youngsters tend to use high doses of the steroids or combine many types of these drugs, which endanger their lives," he said.
Dr Al Mansouri called for intensifying controls over clubs and gymnasiums and taking action against those who sell these drugs illegally in the country.
