What are steroids?
This page refers to the most common perception of steroids, synthetic derivatives of testosterone that promote muscle and bone growth. In other words, a drug to make you build muscle faster.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male hormone. It is responsible for both androgenic and anabolic effects. The anabolic effects of testosterone have primarily become the target of bodybuilders and athletes.
How do steroids work?
Steroid use increases testosterone levels in the body by bypassing the normal pathway for testosterone synthesis and directly adding testosterone to the bloodstream. The specific anabolic and androgenic benefits and side effects felt depend on the type of steroid used. An increase in the hormone testosterone in the body does not cause chemical reactions, but simply magnifies the reactions that already exist.
Anabolic steroids are chemically altered versions of testosterone that have been engineered to maximize anabolic effects with as minimal androgenic effects as possible. However, there is no perfect anabolic steroid. Even the "cleanest" steroids have associated side effects. The possible benefits and side effects of steroid use follow.
What are the possible benefits?
Increase muscle size and strength.
Speed recovery time.
Increase energy levels during workouts.
Increase the oxidation rise of fat.
What are the possible side effects?
Sodium retention
Acne
Gynecomastia
Aggression
Hypertension
Cardiovascular disease
Palpitations
Enlarged heart
Virilization
Cancer
Decreased blood clotting ability
Headaches
Anxiety
Depression
Impotence
Stomach aches
Jaundice
Muscle tears
Enlarged prostate
Premature hair loss
Stunted growth
Immune system suppression
Insomnia
Sterility
Anaphylactic shock
Steroids are illegal in the United States and in many countries throughout the world. Don't forget about the "long arm of the law".
Steroid use does not cause an increase in penis size (contrary to popular belief), but may cause testicular shrinkage during a cycle.
Deca-Durabolin, Testosterone Cypionate, Equipose and Sostenon 250 are the most popular injectable forms of anabolic steroids used in America today.
Anabolic Effects
Virility, Vitality
Increased Strength
Increasing Muscle Size
Enhanced Muscle Recovery
Androgenic Effects
Acne
Voice Deepening
Increased Body Hair
Increased Facial Hair
