Use of ergogenic aids by athletes.

"Ergogenic aid" is defined as any means of enhancing energy utilization, including energy production, control, and efficiency. Athletes frequently use ergogenic aids to improve their performance and increase their chances of winning in competition. It is estimated that between 1 and 3 million male and female athletes in the United States alone have used anabolic steroids. In response to the problem of drug use, many athletic organizations have established policies prohibiting the use of certain pharmacologic, physiologic, and nutritional aids by athletes and have implemented drug testing programs to monitor compliance. Therefore, it is important for physicians to be knowledgeable about the available ergogenic aids so they can appropriately treat and counsel the athletic patient.