Sarah Marsh

A former steroid user describes beginning performance-enhancing drug use in his early 20s to gain size quickly, leading to severe side effects including acne, infection, and a dangerous hypoglycaemic episode from misusing insulin. After nearly collapsing, he stopped using drugs and now works as a nutritionist and online trainer. He highlights the pressures social media places on men's body image and the unrealistic expectations tied to appearance and success.

Experts warn that unregulated online sales of experimental peptides and steroids in the UK have created a dangerous, poorly regulated market. Channa Jayasena highlights rising patient use of untested substances, citing serious health risks and regulatory gaps. A Guardian investigation links fitness influencers to illegal sales via Telegram, while Susan Backhouse notes the growing social normalisation of enhancement practices. Lawmakers Layla Moran and Luke Evans call for stronger oversight, clearer accountability and better data. The government says the MHRA is working to curb illegal drug sales under existing enforcement powers and the Online Safety Act.

Influencers affiliated with Gencore Global have been promoting and selling illegal steroids and experimental peptides via a rebranded Telegram network, despite the company presenting itself as a mainstream wellness brand. At least a dozen ambassadors and employees linked to Gencore directed followers to underground channels offering anabolic steroids, prescription‑only medicines and unregulated peptides. Founder Darren Wicks played an active role in managing the group, advising buyers and encouraging recruitment into Gencore’s ambassador scheme. Experts warn that the merging of fitness culture with illicit drug promotion is normalising steroid use among young people, driven by social media narratives around body image and masculinity.