Steroids and Their Side Effects

Steroids used in the United States are the anabolic steroids and cortisone, most commonly taken as Prednisone. The anabolic steroids are illegal and American companies no longer produce it. However, they are made in underground labs in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They are also made legally in Easter Europe and then smuggled into the United States. The anabolic steroids made in Eastern Europe are often of veterinary grade and come into the country legally but then are diverted. Thus many people unknowingly take veterinary grade anabolic steroids.

Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances related to male sex hormones (androgens). They promote the growth of skeletal muscle and were once used to promote growth in children. Athletes, especially body builders have used them, since the 1950s.

Anabolic steroids have many side effects. They cause feminization among women and masculinization among men. Men develop breasts, fatty deposits, and soft muscles. They may also become impotent and produce abnormal sperm. Women have increased facial and body hair, deepening of voice, enlarged clitoris, menstrual problems, increased acne, and male pattern baldness.

Anabolic steroids also cause behavioral and mood changes including depression, anxiety, confusion, paranoia, and hallucinations. Most familiar to most people is the development of extremely aggressive behavior known as “roid rage.” This latter is often valued by athletes who believe this gives them a fierce, competitive edge.

If taken by adolescents, anabolic steroids can, paradoxically, prevent normal growth.

Here are some other side effects of anabolic steroids:

*High levels of cholesterol
*Enlargement of heart
*Increased risk of heart attack
*Increased risk of stroke
*High blood pressure
*Headaches
*Kidney problems
*Liver damage
*Stomach aches
*Water/salt retention
*May affect immune system
*May affect thyroid function
*Increased risk of prostate cancer

For anyone considering using anabolic steroids, these side effects should speak for themselves.