How Long Is HPG Axis Suppressed After Discontinuing Steroid Intake?

Posted on Fri, 30 Oct 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 Answered on

Thu, 26 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Dear Dr. XXXXXXX A.T,

Since your answers are amongst the best, i would like to ask you something about steroids.

During taking low dose anabolic steroids for three months, possibility is there for HPG axis to be suppressed. But after stopping the steroids how long does the suppression carry on for? Or is the suppression lifted immediately after stopping the steroids??

Thanks and Best Regards
xxxx

Answered by Dr. Dr.Raju.A.T (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, HPG axis does gets suppressed

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

Thanks for your query.

Sorry for the late response.

Yes, taking anabolic steroids for three months or more can suppress the HPG axis. The suppression may exist for a month or so and wanes over next 15 days and return to normal. Also, largely it depends on the specific anabolic steroid as the intensity of suppression depends on the potency of the specific steroid taken.

Hope, I answered your query.

Wish you good health.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T