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 Anabolic Steroids

Description

The term steroid refers to a broad class of drugs structurally related to cholesterol.  Anabolic/androgenic steroids are derivatives of the male hormone testosterone. They are often abused by athletes in the hopes of increasing muscle size and improving athletic performance.  Although there are legitimate medical uses for anabolic steroids, the non-medical use is extremely dangerous to one’s health. The American College of Sports Medicine states that anabolic steroids does not of itself bring about any significant improvements in strength, aerobic endurance, lean body mass, or body weight.

            *Don’t confuse anabolic steroids with steroid medication often prescribed by physicians in the treatment of asthma and other upper respiratory illnesses. These steroid preparations help to reduce inflammation in the airways of the lungs and DO NOT pose the same health risks as anabolic steroids.*

Effects

Anabolic steroids mimic the natural hormone that controls the development of masculine characteristics in adult males.  The hormone is also present in small quantities of females.  Anabolic steroid use may overload the body with testosterone and adversely affect the hypothalamus gland in the brain.

Three major classes of anabolic steroids are:

•         Oral tablets  

•     Injectable, oil-based liquids

•     Injectable, water-based liquids