Steroids

What are Steroids? Anabolic steroids are synthetic male hormones (androgens) that promote growth of skeletal muscle and the development of male sexual characteristics. The primary use of anabolic steroids are to treat delayed puberty, acme types of impotence, and wasting of the body caused by disease. There are 100 different types of anabolic steroids, each requiring a prescription to be used legally in the Unites States. Athletes and others abuse anabolic-androgenic steroids to enhance performance and improve their physical appearance.

Methods of Use Orally Injected into a muscle Rubbed into the skin in the form of a gel or cream They are taken in cycles of weeks or months rather than continuously which is referred to as “cycling”. Users also frequently combine several different types of steroids in a process known as “stacking”. “Pyramiding” is when Users also slowly escalate steroid use reaching a peak amount at mid-cycle and gradually tapering the dose toward the end of the cycle

Street Names Gym candy Arnolds Weight trainers Pumpers Stackers A’s Anabolics Roids Balls Bulls Gear Juice

Reasons for Abuse To improve athletic performance To increase muscle size To reduce body fat

Hazards of Steroid Use Liver tumors Kidney tumors Jaundice Fluid retention High blood pressure Increases in LDL (bad cholesterol) Decreases in HDL (good cholesterol) Severe acne Trembling Enlarged facial bones Stunted height Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Bone pain Muscle cramps Blood clotting difficulties

Gender Specific Effects People who inject anabolic steroids run the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV/AIDS or hepatitis. For Adolescents: Premature skeletal maturation Accelerated puberty changes Growth halted prematurely For Women: Growth of facial and body hair Changes in or cessation of menstrual cycle Pattern baldness Deepened voices Enlargement of the clitoris For Men: Shrinking of testicles Reduce sperm count Infertility Development of breasts Increased risk of prostate cancer

Psychological Effects Depression Irritability Inability to concentrate Forgetfulness Lack of interest or energy for everyday life Aggressive, violent behavior Paranoia Manic episodes

Withdrawal Symptoms Mood swings Fatigue Restlessness Loss of appetite Insomnia Reduced sex drive Depression The depression can lead to suicide attempts and if left untreated, can persist for a year or more after the abuser stops taking the drugs.

Extent of Use Approximately 1.8 % of young adults, ages 19-28, surveyed in 2006 reported lifetime use of steroids. Some users might turn to other drugs to alleviate some of the negative effects of steroids. Most illegal steroids are smuggled from other countries, diverted from pharmacies, and made in underground laboratories