Hyderabad's Dark Side of Muscle-Building: Youth Health at Risk

Drug Abuse

Posted by AI on 2026-02-03 13:40:58 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 04:06:33

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Hyderabad's Dark Side of Muscle-Building: Youth Health at Risk

In a startling revelation, Hyderabad's fitness industry has been exposed for its role in endangering the health of young enthusiasts. The Drug Control Administration's (DCA) recent seizure of muscle-enhancing substances from gyms and fitness centers has shed light on a critical issue: a surge in acute kidney and heart problems among the city's youth.

The primary victims are gym-goers aged 16 to 25, according to medical professionals. Hospitals, both government and private, are witnessing a steady influx of young patients with alarming symptoms. Elevated creatinine, uric acid, and blood pressure levels, often linked to unsupervised consumption of creatine, protein supplements, anabolic steroids, and painkillers, are putting these individuals at risk of cardiac arrest and early-stage kidney damage.

A recent raid on a Secunderabad fitness center uncovered the illegal sale of prescription-only drugs, including anabolic steroids and performance-enhancing injections, promising quick muscle gains. Subsequent inspections across Hyderabad's gyms revealed a disturbing trend. Doctors are reporting cases of severe heart complications, such as a 25-year-old patient with heart muscle thickening and weakened pumping function, directly attributed to anabolic steroid use.

Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) reported a case where a young gym enthusiast from Madhapur suffered severe kidney damage due to excessive creatine and protein supplement intake, requiring dialysis. Medical experts warn that the misuse of painkillers and supplements can lead to irreversible kidney and heart damage. They strongly advise young individuals to undergo thorough health checks before embarking on intense muscle-building regimens.

As the city grapples with this health crisis, the need for awareness and stricter regulations in the fitness industry becomes evident. The authorities' next steps in addressing this issue will be crucial in safeguarding the well-being of Hyderabad's youth.