Table 2.

DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for AAS dependence [49]. At least two of the following criteria must be met over a 12-month period..

Criteria
The substance is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended
There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use of the substance
A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain the substance, use the substance, or recover from its effects
Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use the substance
Recurrent use of the substance resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
Continued use of the substance despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of its use
Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of use of the substance
Recurrent use of the substance in situations in which it is physically hazardous
Use of the substance is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance
Tolerance, as defined by either of the following: a) a need for markedly increased amounts of the substance to achieve intoxication or the desired effect b) a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the substance
Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following: a) the characteristic withdrawal syndrome for other (or unknown) substance b) the substance (or a closely related substance) is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms