What are Steroids?
Courtesy of NIDA
“Anabolic steroids” is the familiar name for synthetic substances related to the male sex hormones (androgens). They promote the growth of skeletal muscle (anabolic effects) and the development of male sexual characteristics (androgenic effects), and also have some other effects.
Anabolic steroids were developed in the late 1930s primarily to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone for normal growth, development, and sexual functioning. The primary medical uses of these compounds are to treat delayed puberty, some types of impotence, and wasting of the body caused by HIV infection or other diseases.
During the 1930s, scientists discovered that anabolic steroids could facilitate the growth of skeletal muscle in laboratory animals, which led to use of the compounds first by bodybuilders and weightlifters and then by athletes in other sports. Steroid abuse has become so widespread in athletics that it affects the outcome of sports contests.
More than 100 different anabolic steroids have been developed, but they require a prescription to be used legally in the United States. Most steroids that are used illegally are smuggled in from other countries, illegally diverted from U.S. pharmacies, or synthesized in clandestine laboratories.
What are steroidal supplements?
In the United States, supplements such as dehydroepian-drosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione (street name Andro) can be purchased legally without a prescription through many commercial sources including health food stores. They are often referred to as dietary supplements, although they are not food products. They are often taken because the user believes they have anabolic effects.
Steroidal supplements can be converted into testosterone (an important male sex hormone) or a similar compound in the body. Whether such conversion produces sufficient quantities of testosterone to promote muscle growth or whether the supplements themselves promote muscle growth is unknown. Little is known about the side effects of steroidal supplements, but if large quantities of these compounds substantially increase testosterone levels in the body, they also are likely to produce the same side effects as anabolic steroids
ANABOLIC/ANDROGENIC STEROIDS SIDE EFFECTS
Courtesy of Anabolics.com
- External Changes
- Changes in the skin
- Internal Changes
- Psychic (mood swings)
- Feminization in Males (taking on female traits)
- Masculinization in Females (Taking on male Traits)
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Growth Deficits
- Kidney Problems
- Liver Problems
- Immune System (dependence)
- High Blood Pressure
- Water/Salt Retention
What Leads To Negative Side Effects
The biggest factor leading to negative side effects is misuse. Everybody is different and the affect that a certain steroid will have can vary widely from person to person. Most of the time, negative side effects are more prevalent in a person who has used large quantities of strong androgenic substances for extended periods of time. It is important to be aware of all the effects that a substance might produce, and be able to recognize that they are happening. Regular doctor visits are always recommended for blood checks and advice. Another factor leading to negative side effects is the use of fakes. As described above, most fakes do not even contain anabolic or androgenic substances and on top of that, may not even be sterile. This could lead to potential life threatening diseases such as AIDS. It is important that if you are using needles, you should never share with another person and always use sterile equipment. Steroids are illegal substances and can be very detrimental to the human body. They can also be very helpful if used the correct way and under a physician’s supervision.
Why are steroids bad?
Steroids are bad because of the adverse side effects that result from long term and improper use. Most side effects are reversible, however, some are not. Like a lot of drugs,steroids promote addictive behavior. This often leads to long-term use of highly androgenic drugs, which suppresses the bodies natural ability to produce testosterone and leads to negative side effects such as gynecomastia. Because steroids are only available on the black market (unless you have a prescription), counterfeit steroids are widely available. This is probably the biggest factor leading to negative side effects.
* www.Anabolics.com, Inc.