Are you a gym goer? Or are there people among your friends who use various kinds of drugs and supplements to 'body build' and build a body quickly? Among such people, the word 'steroids' must have definitely been mentioned. Many people do not know exactly about these and use them incorrectly. But these are a type of medicine that doctors themselves prescribe for certain medical conditions. Today we are talking about these anabolic steroids.
Simply put, what are these anabolic steroids?
Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the male hormone testosterone , that is, made in a laboratory. To be precise, these are called “Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids” (AAS).
- 'Anabolic' means that it builds tissue , mainly muscle.
- 'Androgenic' refers to a group of hormones that cause male characteristics .
Testosterone is the main androgen hormone. Men have much higher levels of this hormone in their bodies than women.
Doctors mainly prescribe these anabolic steroids to treat low testosterone levels in men (Male Hypogonadism). They are also used to help build muscle in some cancer patients and AIDS patients.
But the biggest problem is that some athletes, bodybuilders, and others use these without medical advice to enhance their performance and enhance their physical appearance. This is a very dangerous situation.
These come in various forms such as pills, injections, creams/gels, skin patches, and implantable pellets.
Are "steroids" and "anabolic steroids" the same thing?
Yes, these are two types. Many people confuse the two. Let's see what the difference is between the two.
| Characteristic | Common steroids (Corticosteroids) | Anabolic Steroids |
|---|---|---|
| Main function | Inflammation in the body and decreased immune system function. | Developing muscles and developing masculine characteristics. |
| Similar hormone in the body | It is similar to the hormone cortisol, which is produced by our adrenal glands. | It is similar to the male hormone testosterone. |
| Cases used by doctors | For diseases like asthma, allergies, skin diseases, and arthritis. | Testosterone deficiency, delayed puberty, and some types of cancer. |
For what types of diseases do doctors prescribe anabolic steroids?
These are not just any medications. A doctor will only prescribe these medications for specific medical conditions.
Approved uses
- Naturally low levels of testosterone hormone in men (Male Hypogonadism).
- Delayed puberty in boys.
- For some types of breast cancer in women.
- Endometriosis.
- Osteoporosis.
Other medical uses (Off-label use)
Sometimes, these are also used for other ailments, based on the doctor's knowledge and experience, even if they are not directly approved by the relevant authorities.
- To stimulate the bone marrow of leukemia patients.
- Aplastic anemia.
- In cases of kidney failure.
- Increase appetite and regrow muscle mass in patients who have lost muscle mass due to diseases such as cancer or AIDS.
What happens when anabolic steroids are used incorrectly?
This is the most dangerous aspect that we all need to be aware of. People who misuse these drugs take doses that are 10 to 100 times higher than the dose prescribed by a doctor. The side effects that result from this can be very severe. Some of them can last a lifetime.
| Severe consequences and complications of misuse | |
|---|---|
| Common effects for both men and women | |
| High blood pressure | Liver damage |
| Blood clots | Heart attack and stroke |
| Severe acne and boils | Stopping height gain from exercise at a young age |
| Aggression, Mania | Major depressive disorder |
| Specific effects on men | |
| Decreased sperm production and infertility | Smaller testicles |
| Breast enlargement (Gynecomastia) | Increased risk of testicular cancer |
| Specific effects on women | |
| Deepening of the voice (like a male voice) | Breast size reduction |
| Excessive hair growth on the body and face | Irregular or stopped menstrual cycle |
Many of these side effects can be reversed once the medication is stopped. However, some things, such as voice changes and hair loss, cannot be reversed. Also, damage to the liver and heart can be lifelong.
So can't these be used safely?
Yes. But only if you take it under the supervision of a doctor, for a medical reason, and in the prescribed dosage . Otherwise, it is never safe to use these products just because you hear from your friends, at the gym, or just because you see them on the internet.
If you are using anabolic steroids on the advice of a doctor, talk to your doctor in the following situations.
- If you experience unpleasant side effects.
- If your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
- If you are thinking of stopping the medication.
Remember, these are very powerful drugs. They change your hormone levels and body composition. So never share or sell them with others.
Take-Home Message
- Anabolic steroids are not just any 'supplement' you use at the gym. They are powerful synthetic hormones.
- These are used for specific diseases under the supervision of a doctor. It is safe.
- Taking these in high doses without medical advice for bodybuilding or to enhance athletic performance is extremely dangerous. It can cause heart attacks, liver damage, infertility, and even death.
- If you have any questions or concerns about these medications, you should only discuss them with a qualified doctor, not your friends or gym instructors.
- If you think you or someone you know is addicted to these, don't be afraid to get help. See a doctor as soon as possible.
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