While certain methods can minimize some of these risks, they cannot be fully avoided. AAS use can affect several lab values, making frequent blood work important to avoid major complications. Steroid use can affect the following lab values 27 , 28 :. When taking AAS, the risk of infection can be fairly high.
When procuring AAS on the black market, there is a chance of mislabeled or counterfeit substances, further increasing your risk of infection. The only way to obtain and use AAS legally would be to have them prescribed by a medical professional for a certain condition, such as low testosterone or a muscle-wasting disease. Though AAS are not classified as physically addictive, continued use may be associated with mental addiction that can lead to dependence A common psychological side effect of AAS use is muscle dysmorphia, in which users become preoccupied with having a muscular physique Steroid use is dangerous for several reasons, including the high risk of infection, their illegal status in most places, and potential for mental addiction.
Frequent blood work is essential to monitor potential negative health effects. While lower, well-calculated doses of AAS can be significantly safer than uncontrolled doses associated with abuse, no studies have compared the safety of different steroid doses.
Synthetic testosterone is also used to treat individuals with low testosterone, which is referred to as testosterone replacement therapy TRT. TRT is generally safe for men with low testosterone levels when administered by a medical professional. Data to determine the safety of TRT for women is insufficient The higher doses commonly used in competitive athletics and strength sports are linked to an increased risk of side effects and cannot be deemed safe 1.
People respond differently to AAS due to variations in genetic makeup. While lower, controlled doses associated with testosterone replacement therapy are generally accepted as safe for men with low testosterone, taking steroids in any amount can pose health risks. More serious side effects are seen with higher doses.
While AAS are the most commonly talked-about type of steroid, there is another variety called glucocorticoids or corticosteroids. These are naturally occurring hormones produced in the adrenal glands located on top of your kidneys They serve as a feedback mechanism in your immune system, which regulates inflammation.
Synthetic versions are often used to treat certain conditions caused by an overactive immune system, including:. Once the receptors are stimulated, a domino effect of metabolic reactions takes place as the drug instructs the body to increase muscle tissue production. Although testosterone is called a male sex hormone, it also occurs naturally in women, but in much smaller amounts. People who use anabolic steroids generally experience an increase in muscle strength very quickly.
This generally means that people are able to train more often and for longer periods of time, with improved recovery. The effects of anabolic steroid use can differ from person to person. Some people may experience:. They may do this to either speed up their physical transformation or counter the side effects of the steroids. The dangers of mixing these drugs aren't fully known. Some of these other drugs may include:. Anabolic steroids do not cause physical dependence. However, if a person relies on them for their self-esteem and confidence, then giving up can be extremely difficult.
The pressure to keep using steroids may result in feelings of anger or depression if their access to steroids is denied, even temporarily. It can take up to 4 months to restore natural testosterone levels after being on anabolic steroids for a long time.
Withdrawal symptoms from steroids can include:. Treatment options for drug dependence or addiction may include:. See your doctor for information and referral, or contact an alcohol and other drug service in your area. Steriods are only permitted for people with certain medical conditions on prescription by their medical practitioner. This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:.
Asking for help when you first suspect you have an alcohol or drug problem is important. If you think you have an addiction, speak to your local doctor or phone DirectLine.
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Show references Ritter JM, et al. The pituitary and the adrenal cortex. Elsevier; Accessed Oct. Grennan D, et al. Steroid side effects. Saag KG, et al. Major side effects of systemic glucocorticoids. Major side effects of inhaled glucocorticoids. Roberts WN, et al. Joint aspiration or injection in adults: Complications. Nieman LK. Pharmacologic use of glucocorticoids. Long-term glucocorticoid therapy.
Mayo Clinic; This means they take multiple doses of steroids over a period of time, stop for a period, then start up again. Other steroid users may "pyramid" their steroids, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing the dose, frequency, or number of anabolic steroids taken, then tapering off to complete a cycle.
Users believe that stacking enhances the effects of each individual drug, pyramiding allows the body to get used to high doses of steroids, and steroid-free periods help the body recuperate from the drugs. There is no scientific evidence to support any of these claims. A lot of people tell themselves they'll only use steroids for a season or a school year.
Unfortunately, steroids can be addictive, making it hard to stop taking them. And once users stop taking steroids, they can have withdrawal symptoms such as loss of appetite, tiredness, restlessness, insomnia, mood swings, and depression. Anabolic steroid use is illegal and banned by professional sports organizations and medical associations. In spite of this, some athletes continue to take steroids because they think it gives them a competitive advantage.
As seen in high-profile cases, if an athlete is caught using steroids, his or her career can be destroyed. And there are serious health consequences. When it comes right down to it, harming your body or getting disqualified aren't smart ways to try to improve your athletic performance.
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