Find out what role total bilirubin plays in the course of steroids and why iron sports pros are constantly tested: before, on and after the course. If you use AAS, then it is advisable to take tests. It must be admitted that most athletes do not do this and it is completely in vain. Thanks to the results obtained, you will know the state of the body, and if necessary, you can take action. Today we will talk about the analysis after a course of steroids for total bilirubin.
What is total bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a metabolite of myoglobin, cytochromes and hemoglobin. It appears after the decomposition reaction of the above substances in the spleen and liver. Bilirubin is found in blood serum in two states: free and bound. Both of these fractions form total bilirubin.
After the breakdown of hemoglobin, bilirubin is in a free state. The substance is perfectly soluble in fat, which allows it to quickly penetrate through cell membranes, which leads to disruption of metabolic processes in cells. Also note that bilirubin is a powerful toxin.
To remove bilirubin from the body, it first enters the liver from the spleen, where, after interacting with glucoronic acid, it acquires the ability to quickly dissolve in water and loses its toxicity. This state of matter is called bound. It is with an increase in the concentration of bilirubin that the development of such a well-known disease as jaundice is associated. It should be said that when analyzing after a course of steroids for total bilirubin, the concept of direct bilirubin is also used. The difference in readings between total and direct liver enzyme is the free bilirubin value.
How to interpret the results of the test for total bilirubin after a course of steroids?
As we have already said, after the analyzes, you will have two indications - general and direct. The normal value for total bilirubin is between 8.5 and 20.5. In turn, the indicator of direct bilirubin should be no more than 25 percent of the total.
These are average rates that are good for most people. Of course, it is best to do tests before the start of a steroid cycle in order to know your own indicators of all the main substances.
However, if your indicators correspond to the above, then there is nothing to worry about, and we can say that the liver is functioning normally. When these values are exceeded, then you need to start taking hepatoprotectors. Most often, Karsil is used by athletes. By and large, you can not wait for the completion of your cycle and delivery of tests, but start using Carsil while taking steroids. This will not reduce the effectiveness of the course, and the liver will be protected.
For more information on bilirubin, see this video: