HYDERABAD, OCTOBER 24, 2025: The Drugs Control Administration, Telangana, carried out a special drive to detect the illegal sale of anabolic-androgenic steroids and cardiac stimulants such as Mephentermine Sulphate Injection to gym-goers for abuse in bodybuilding.
As part of this drive, the DCA conducted surprise inspections at 20 gyms across the city — located in Secunderabad, Mehdipatnam, Tolichowki, Malakpet, Punjagutta, Narsingi, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, Madhapur, Kothapet, Kukatpally, and Suraram — in coordination with the local Police Authorities on 24th October 2025.
The abuse of Anabolic-androgenic steroids poses significant health risks. These drugs, often misused by bodybuilders to enhance muscle growth, can lead to a range of adverse effects, including cardiovascular issues, liver damage, mood swings, and hormonal imbalances. Moreover, long-term abuse can result in severe health complications such as infertility, kidney failure, and psychiatric disorders.
Mephentermine Sulphate Injection is a cardiac stimulant primarily used to normalise decreased blood pressure (hypotension) that may arise from administering anaesthesia in spinal procedures during surgery. It’s crucial to note that only a doctor should determine the appropriate dose and duration of this medicine for each individual.
However, Mephentermine Sulphate Injection, with its cardiac stimulatory action, is being misused to enhance endurance in bodybuilders. Certain gyms are illegally selling Mephentermine Injection to gym-goers who misuse it to improve physical performance in competitive sports or bodybuilding.
Abuse of prescription medicines such as anabolic-androgenic steroids and Mephentermine Sulphate Injections for bodybuilding can lead to various adverse effects, including cardiovascular disorders, and may even result in death if misused.
Any gym found illegally stocking or selling prescription medicines will face strict legal action under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Gym owners and staff are warned to refrain from such illegal practices and ensure full compliance with the law.
The illegal stocking and sale of such prescription drugs to gym-goers constitute a violation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, and individuals involved are liable for imprisonment of up to five years.
DCA Director General Shahnawaz Qasim said the public may report any complaints regarding illegal activities related to medicines, as well as any other suspected manufacturing activities concerning drugs, including narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, in residential, commercial, or industrial areas through the Drugs Control Administration, Telangana Toll-Free Number 1800-599-6969, operational from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm on all working days.
