An Australian Federal Police employee endured an "embarrassing" investigation into the use of a prescribed steroid, internal documents reveal.
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Another employee was fired after testing positive to steroid use, according to the reports obtained under freedom of information laws.
Lab results and investigation notes dating back to 2012 showed one employee was investigated after testing positive for the steroid androstenedione. The complaint claimed the person seriously breached the AFP code of conduct by using and failing to declare the steroids, thereby not upholding the agency's core values, integrity and reputation.
But the internal probe found an AFP medical advisor had told the employee he or she did not need to declare the drug. The person had been prescribed Sustanon 250, a drug injected as treatment for various health problems caused by a lack of testosterone. The drug targets a range of symptoms including impotence, infertility, low sex drive, tiredness, depressive moods and bone loss caused by low hormone levels.
Six months after the test results were collected, the investigation concluded there had been no misconduct.
"It has been determined that a tragic set of circumstances stemming from a medical condition, exacerbated by advice provided to you by the AFP Medical Services Medical Advisor added to the situation," a letter to the employee read.
"It was noted that you were advised by the Medical Advisor that you were not required to declare that you were taking Sustanon 250, prescribed by your family doctor.
"It is recommended that you advise Medical Services should you be required to take any similar medication for your medical condition, to avoid any further embarrassment for yourself."
Another employee was stood down after urine tests detected the presence of three illicit muscle-building drugs - two anabolic steroids and the body-sculpting substance, clenbuterol.
A termination of employment letter sent in late 2015 condemned the drug use. The letter detailed the person's serious misconduct by possessing and using illegal drugs.
Federal police force members are subject to mandatory drug and alcohol testing. Illicit drug use and prescription drug abuse is banned, while alcohol use is regulated.
Positive test results are reviewed by the AFP medical review officer and then to the professional standards manager. The AFP says it provides "reasonable support" to employees who seek help with alcohol abuse and "endeavour to support" admitted problems with cannabis use.
