Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), are lab-produced male sex hormones or androgen. Testosterone is the primary androgen. These compounds are designed to mimic the effects of testosterone in the body. Thus, healthcare professionals prescribe these hormones to promote muscle growth (anabolic effects) and the development of male sexual characteristics (androgenic effects).
While anabolic steroids have legitimate medical uses, they are also widely abused by athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts keen to enhance performance and physical appearance. In this digital world, they can even order anabolic steroids online.
These steroids can be taken orally, injected, or applied as gels or creams, or used as patches. They work by binding to androgen receptors in cells, stimulating protein synthesis and increasing muscle mass.
Medical applications
Medically, anabolic steroids can treat various conditions, such as hormone deficiency in men, muscle reduction in HIV/AIDS patients and cancer patients, delayed puberty, burn and injury recovery, and bone marrow stimulation in patients with anemia.
Uses outside medical
While anabolic steroids have certain medical benefits and are prescribed by certified healthcare professionals, these compounds are also used non-medically.
Anabolic steroids are frequently misused for performance enhancement and cosmetic purposes.Bodybuilders and athletes use steroids to build muscle faster. Also, some athletes take steroids to enhance strength and endurance.Since these compounds promote faster recovery, body builders take steroids to reduce muscle fatigue, and engage in more intense training. Furthermore, individuals with leaner appearance rely on the steroid use to get a more muscular physique.
However, it is crucial to know that steroid abuse can have serious consequences. Using anabolic steroids without medical supervision can lead to severe health complications.
There are physical side-effects of oral steroids in the form of liver damage. Also, there can be cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. There can be hormonal imbalances in men, leading to shrinking testicles, infertility, and breast growth.Steroid abuse can also promote acne, male pattern baldness, and increased risk of tendon injuries.
Psychological implications include aggression, mood swings and depression, addiction and dependency
Also, it is crucial to note that anabolic steroids are illegal to use without a prescription. Athletes caught using them may face bans from competitions.
Anabolic steroids online purchase may be easy, but they should be used with caution. While they can increase muscle mass and strength, their misuse carries significant health risks, including hormonal imbalances, organ damage, and psychological effects.
