Your Life

Steroids (Anabolic Steroids)

Trade names include: Sustanon 250, Deca-Durabolin, Dianabol, Anavar and Stanozolol. May be referred to by users as 'roids'.


Facts:

  • Anabolic steroids can only be sold lawfully by a pharmacist to someone with a doctor's prescription.
  • While possession isn't illegal without a prescription, supply is against the law and Class C penalties apply.· Anabolic steroids are similar to, and include, the male hormone, testosterone.
  • They are used in medicine to treat anaemia and muscle weakness after surgery.
  • Don't confuse them with the type of steroids used to treat exzema/asthma. *
  • Some body-builders and athletes use anabolic steroids, as well as people who think it'll improve their body image.
  • Some can be swallowed, but most need to be injected.
  • Use in sports is prohibited. A positive test for the drug can ruin a sporting career.

* Some countries treat asthma using Clenbuterol, which is also used for its anabolic effects.


Effects:

  • Users claim steroids make them feel more aggressive and able to train harder.
  • With exercise, anabolic steroids can help build up muscle. However, there is some debate about whether they improve muscle power and athletic performance.
  • Anabolic steroids help users to recover from strenuous exercise.

Risks:

  • Taking anabolic steroids carries many health risks and can stop young people from growing properly.
  • The risks for MEN include: erection problems, breast growth, shrinking testicles, reduced sperm and even sterility, acne, increased chance of heart attack and liver failure.
  • The risks for WOMEN include: growth of facial hair, deepening voice, shrinking breasts, messed-up menstrual cycle, spots, possible miscarriage and stillbirth.
  • Many users report experiencing "roid rages" when they become irrationally violent, often lashing out at anyone nearby.
  • Some effects, such as change in breast size, may be irreversible without surgery.
  • Injecting into muscle can sometimes damage veins. Sharing needles or syringes puts users at risk of dangerous infections like hepatitis and HIV.

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