Reflecting on the current human enhancement drugs categorisation and new directions to consider

Title
Reflecting on the current human enhancement drugs categorisation and new directions to consider
Publication Date
2026
Author(s)
van de Ven, Katinka
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3026-9978
Email: kvandeve@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:kvandeve
Bates, Geoff
Askew, Rebecca
Mulrooney, Kyle J D
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1457-274X
Email: kmulroon@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:kmulroon
McVeigh, Jim
Editor
Editor(s): Katinka van de Ven, Kyle J. D. Mulrooney and Jim McVeigh
Type of document
Book Chapter
Language
en
Entity Type
Publication
Publisher
Routledge
Place of publication
Abingdon, United Kingdom
Edition
1
DOI
10.4324/9781003391067-1
UNE publication id
une:1959.11/71820
Abstract

The recognition of human enhancement drugs (HEDs) as a distinct categorisation of substances is a relatively recent phenomenon. HEDs are currently divided into six sub-categories based on their reason for use. Specifically, drugs used to enhance: (1) the structure and function of muscle; (2) weight loss; (3) the appearance of the skin and hair; (4) sexual function and behaviour; (5) cognitive function; and (6) mood and social behaviour. While this provides a useful framework for describing the different types of HEDs, this categorisation would benefit from further development and refinement. Several complexities regarding HEDs were highlighted in the initial categorisation but were not fully explored; for instance, the six categories are not mutually exclusive, some substances are not solely HEDs but may also be prescribed for therapeutic purposes, and psychoactive drugs may also have enhancing effects. The issue is further complicated by the fact that there may not be scientific evidence to support a specific reason for the use of a substance. However, that is not seen as a barrier by consumers, particularly those looking to enhance cognition or sexual performance. This chapter revisits the HED taxonomy, reflect on the issues associated with HED categorisation, and explore the next steps in how we can better understand the use of these substances.

Link
Citation
Human Enhancement Drugs, v.2, p. 1-11
ISBN
9781032488370
9781032488387
9781003391067
Start page
1
End page
11

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