OBJECTIVE: To determine whether anabolic steroids are useful in the management of the malnutrition of chronic renal failure. DATA SOURCE: Original research studies and book chapters about anabolic steroids and their use in uremia and various illnesses associated with malnutrition. We included studies that describe the benefits of anabolic steroids in the treatment of anemia and sexual dysfunction of chronic renal failure. Forty-two such studies were published between 1942 and 1992. RESULTS: Anabolic steroids improve the nutritional status and sexual dysfunction of uremic men. In addition, anabolic steroids have a recognized place in the treatment of the anemia of chronic renal failure. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings of noncontrolled studies, one may conclude that anabolic steroids exert a beneficial effect in the malnutrition of renal failure. We believe that their efficacy should be established by controlled studies.

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