Steroids are synthetic organic compounds with a molecular structure of atoms. Steroid medicines are artificial forms of sex hormones, adrenal cortical hormones, bile hormones, etc. Anabolic (performance growth) components are synthetic steroids with high medicinal value. Steroids of various classes are clearly distinguished based on their biological source. When we talk of Anabolic steroids, their connection with athletes comes automatically.
Serious athletes are ambitious about winning the games. They dream big. Hard-working athletes want to be on professional sports teams. Before huge expectations and pressure, the athletes use steroids to boost their strength further. These steroids are known as performance boosters. The drug intake is known as doping, which has its own share of risks. In the blog, we will talk about the connection between steroids and athletes, with their potential effects.
What are Anabolic Steroids?
Anabolic steroids are medicines that athletes take to strengthen their muscles. They are also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids. These steroids act like testosterone, the primary androgen of male sex. The hormone stimulates the growth of male features. Testosterone levels in men are higher than in women. Some of the potent anabolic steroids include Testobol (Testosterone Base) 50 mg injection, Trenbolone Enanthate 200 mg injection, Trenbolone Acetate 100 mg injection, Testosterone Enanthate 250 mg injection, Testosterone Cypionate 250 mg injection, Testosterone Propionate 100 mg injection, Turinabol 10 mg tablets, Dianabol (Methandieone) 10 mg tablets, Anavar (Oxandrolone) 10 mg tablets, Anadrol (Oxymetholone) 50 mg tablets, Winstrol (Stanozolol) 10 mg tablets, Boldenone Undecylenate 250 mg injection, Masterone (Drostanolone Propionate) 100 mg injection, Nandrolone Decanoate 400 mg injection, amongst others.
How Does the Anabolic Steroid Function?
Anabolic steroids act as medications with their testosterone-like functionalities. The technical term used for the hormone is “Anabolic Androgenic Steroids”(AAS). Anabolic hormones help in tissue or muscle growth, and androgens are a class of sex hormones. The hormone secreted naturally in the human body has two primary effects –
- Builds muscle
- Improves body strength
- Deepens voice
The anabolic steroids taken by athletes are synthetic forms of testosterone formed in the lab. Medical professionals prescribe anabolic steroids to address issues like male hypogonadism. It refers to the low testosterone level in males. The hormone also encourages muscle growth for people with AIDS or certain types of cancers. Anabolic steroid misuse is also common. Millions of young adults in the United States use anabolic steroids for nonmedical purposes. The steroids come in the form of pills and injections. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), anabolic steroids address and treat the following symptoms:
- Primary male hypogonadism
- Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (hypogonadism due to an issue with your pituitary gland or hypothalamus.
- Delayed puberty in male children.
- Breast cancer in women
- Osteoporosis
- Endometriosis
Some of the off-label (not approved by the FDA) uses include –
- Bone marrow stimulation in leukemia patients
- Kidney failure
- Obstructed growth
- Aplastic anemia
- Stimulation of muscle mass
- Stimulation of appetite
What Is Anabolic Steroid Abuse?
One of the primary reasons why people misuse anabolic steroids is to boost weak muscle mass in conjunction with training and exercise. Anabolic steroid abuse is a kind of doping that is not approved for sports. The steroids reduce the damage done to muscles after a hard workout session. The external infusion of hormones empowers the athletes to bounce back fast after a workout. They can exercise hard in shorter intervals. Some people are more attracted to how their physique will be after the steroid intake. Designer steroids are more harmful than anabolic steroids. The Government does not medically approve anabolic steroids for these uses.
Risks of Anabolic Steroid Abuse
When administered improperly, anabolic steroids cause serious health issues like cardiac issues, liver damage, strokes, cancer, etc. Athletes who misuse anabolic steroids take them at doses that are too high. The doses are way higher than what a doctor would suggest for medical reasons. The steroid misuse comes with serious side effects. Some of those include nausea, tendon injuries, headaches, joint pain, muscle cramps, sleep issues, and diarrhea, among others.
For men –
- Growth in breasts
- Testicles may shrink
- Sexual potency weakens
- Bigger prostate glands
For women –
- Deep and harsh voice. Unfortunately, no treatment can bring it back.
- Clitoris growing bigger
- Body hair growth, especially facial hair
- Baldness due to the medicinal intake. Again, treatment won’t help.
- Not having periods, or having at longer intervals.
- Risk of osteoporosis and cervical/endometrial cancer
- Congenital disabilities in future children
Individuals, irrespective of their gender identities, have the following symptoms after anabolic steroid intake.
- Worsening acne
- High blood pressure
- Growing risk of osteoporosis
- Swollen or torn tendons
- Liver issues, such as a liver tumor
- Higher level of bad cholesterol and lower level of good cholesterol
- Issues with the heart and blood flow
- Anger issues and an inclination towards violence
- Mental health issues like anxiety or depression
- Diseases like HIV or Hepatitis
As anabolic steroids are direct derivatives of testosterone, they have a severe impact on both male and female users. Doping is mostly common among sportspeople who are in groups or leagues. The U.S. law does not allow this. It’s advisable never to buy steroids from a drug dealer, as they can be tainted.
How to Stop Anabolic Steroid Abuse?
There are several ways to boost your strength and appearance. When you truly want to grow in your sports career, you must maintain healthy habits.
- Have safe training without using drugs.
- Have a balanced diet with vitamin and mineral-rich food items.
- Drink adequate water to keep your body hydrated.
- Have proper rest and sleep.
- Set realistic goals for yourself and reach them through practice and hard work.
- Have training under an expert professional.
- Play safe and use protective measures to avoid injuries.
- Whenever you feel the need for a healthcare provider in terms of nutrition and health, contact them to address the concerns.
Is the Use of Anabolic Steroids Legal?
Yes, the steroid is legal. But when the steroid is misused without a doctor’s consultation, it becomes an abuse. Under the Controlled Substances Act, anabolic steroids are Schedule III substances. It’s illegal to use steroids without a prescription. The only way to take the steroid legally is to have a prescription. The anabolic steroids are legally approved for only the FDA-approved symptoms.
A Note from Global Care Meds
Anabolic steroids are potent medications that balance hormone (testosterone) levels and body composition. Due to potential health risks, it’s always advisable to consult your doctor before anabolic steroid intake. Never take more than the recommended dose. At Global Care Meds, you can order premium-quality anabolic steroids to treat health concerns under your doctor’s supervision. We supply genuine medicines across the USA with fast shipping and doorstep delivery facilities.
