FACTS ABOUT ANABOLIC STEROIDS
1. Anabolic refers to building up the body and a steroid is a hormone that drives the process. The steroid in this case is the male hormone testosterone, usually a synthetic version. There are several and they are collectively known as androgens.
2. Anabolic steroids can be administered by mouth, by injection, in a cream or in patches applied to the skin.
3. There are legitimate medical uses but there are also dangerous side effects with improper use.
4. When anabolic steroids are used before growth is complete, e.g., in young teens, they result in the closing of the growth centers in the bones and when this occurs further growth is not possible. Thus, a youngster who uses an anabolic steroid may never reach his or her full height.
5. In women they may cause acne, facial hair, male pattern baldness, voice changes and menstrual problems. .
6. In men they may cause acne, breast enlargement, reduced sperm count and impotence.
7. Anabolic steroids also cause liver tumors (cancer), heart and blood vessel disease and enlargement of the prostate gland. A large prostate gland may cause inability to urinate.
8. Other side effects include aggressiveness, rage known as ‘roid rage, depression, poor judgment, and psychosis (inability to know reality) in some. Psychosis disappears when the steroids are stopped.
9. To be effective “body building” with anabolic steroids must be combined with good nutrition and strength training
10. Better athletic performance is not well documented because they are illegal when used in this manner. Even when the muscles are enlarged, the tendons and ligaments are not increased in size and are susceptible to injury.
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