Anabolic Steroids

A Threat to Mind and Body

The nonmedical use of anabolic/androgenic steroids among adolescents and young adults is of growing concern. As many as half a million Americans under age 18 may be abusing these drugs to improve athletic performance, appearance and self-image. Yet a growing body of evidence suggests that medically unsupervised steroids use may pose severe risks to physical and psychological health.

This Research Report is based on the findings of recent studies on the use of anabolic steroids in the United States. Its goal is to educate the public about these drugs and the dangers of misusing them.

NIDA Research Report - Anabolic Steroids

DHHS Publication No. (ADM) 91-1810

• The Price of Perfection

• Using Anabolic Steroids

• A Brief History

• Abusing Anabolic Steroids

• Megadosing

• Health Hazards

• Are Anabolic Steroids Addictive?

• Supply and Demand: The Black Market

• Safe - and Healthy - Alternatives

• Fighting Back

• Resources

All materials appearing in the Research Reports Series are in the public domain and may be reproduced without permission from NIDA. Citation of the source is appreciated. To obtain printed copies of this report, please call or write the National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information, P.O. Box 2345, Rockville, MD 20852, 1-800-729-6686.