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Anabolic
steroids
Most synthetic anabolic steroids ('roids) are derived from the male
sex hormone testosterone. Their trade names include Anadrol, Anavar,
Durabolin, Dianabol, Stanozolol and Sustanon. They are swallowed or
injected. Medically, they are used to treat thrombosis (the clotting
of blood vessels) and anaemia and to help build up wasted muscles after
illness.
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Why
people use them
As well as directly helping to build up muscles, in combination with
exercise and the right diet, anabolic steroids also appear to increase
aggression, so that body-builders and athletes (including anyone who
is highly motivated to work out and get fitter) can train harder. Many
users also believe that they directly improve athletic performance,
though this is disputed. Anabolic steroids can also increase the sex drive.
Why people
may wish they hadn't
In the short term
Some users have claimed that anabolic steroids can lead to extreme aggression
and violence - so-called 'roid rage'.
Dependence
Athletes and body-builders may come to feel psychologically dependent
on anabolic steroids, and withdrawal can lead to tiredness and depression.
In the long term
Research suggests that long-term use may cause acne, the shakes, liver
and kidney problems and high blood pressure. Anabolic steroids can also
stop young people from growing properly. In men, long-term use may shrink
the testicles, reduce both the sex drive and the sperm count and lead
to the development of breasts. Women may grow facial hair and develop
a deep voice. Psychological problems including mood swings, depression,
general irritability and paranoia have also been reported.
Special
risks
- Taking
anabolic steroids with stimulants/uppers can be dangerous.
- Many
anabolic steroids are made in illegal laboratories, so their purity
and strength is not reliable.
Legal status
Anabolic
steroids that have not been prescribed are in Class C, amongst a number of drugs in that class
that you can legally possess but not supply.
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