Anabolic Steroids

A Threat to Mind and Body

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Health Hazards

Raising a Red Flag

Although controlled studies on the long-term outcome of megadosing with anabolic steroids have not been conducted, extensive research on prescribed doses for medical use has documented the potential side effects of the drug, even when taken in small doses. Moreover, reports by athletes, and observations of attending physicians, parents, and coaches do offer substantial evidence of dangerous side effects.

Some effects, such as rapid weight gain, are easy to see. Some take place internally and may not be evident until it is too late. Some are irreversible.

The Dangers

... to Men

Males who take large doses of anabolic steroids typically experience changes in sexual characteristics. Although derived from a male sex hormone, the drug can trigger a mechanism in the body that can actually shut down the healthy functioning of the male reproductive system. Some possible side effects:

• Shrinking of the testicles
• Reduced sperm count
• Impotence
• Baldness
• Difficulty or pain in urinating
• Development of breasts
• Enlarged prostate

Females may experience "masculinization" as well as other problems:

• Growth of facial hair
• Changes in or cessation of the menstrual cycle
• Enlargement of the clitoris
• Deepened voice
• Breast reduction

For both males and females, continued use of anabolic steroids may lead to health conditions ranging from merely irritating to life-threatening. Some effects are:

• Acne
• Jaundice
• Trembling
• Swelling of feet or ankles
• Bad breath
• Reduction in HDL, the "good" cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Liver damage and cancers
• Aching joints
• Increased chance of injury to tendons, ligaments, and muscles

Special Dangers to Adolescents

Anabolic steroids can halt growth prematurely in adolescents. Because even small doses can irreversibly affect growth, steroids are rarely prescribed for children and young adults, and only for the severely ill. The Office of the Inspector General in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has gathered anecdotal evidence that preteens and teens taking steroids may be at risk for developing a dependence on them drugs and on other substances as well.

Anabolic steroids can halt
growth prematurely in
adolescents.

The Threat of AIDS

People sometimes take injections of anabolic steroids to augment oral dosages, using large-gauge, reusable needles normally obtained through the black market. If needles are shared, users run the risk of transmitting or contracting the HIV infection that can lead to AIDS.

The Psychological Effects

Scientists are just beginning to investigate the impact of anabolic steroids on the mind and behavior. Many athletes report "feeling good" about themselves while on a steroids regimen. The downside, according to Harvard researchers, is wide mood swings ranging from periods of violent, even homicidal, episodes known as "roid rages" to bouts of depression when the drugs are stopped.

The Harvard study also noted that anabolic steroids users may suffer from paranoid jealousy, extreme irritability, delusions, and impaired judgment stemming from feelings of invincibility.

"If needles are shared, steroids users
run the risk of transmitting or
contracting the HIV infection that
can lead to AIDS."