What are Anabolic Steroids?
Anabolic steroids are a type of drug which is closely related to male testosterone. Another name for them is anabolic-androgenic steroids. Athletes and body builders often illegally use this drug in order to increase muscle mass and overall physical performance. There are a number of negative consequences which may arise as a result of steroid use including heart attack, shrinkage of testicles in men, breast reduction in women, and acne. Risks are often higher in drugs obtained illegally. Today, all major sports associations (in a variety of countries) have banned the use of anabolic steroids.
This type of drug can also be taken legally through a prescription. Doctors prescribe these steroids to men who do not produce enough of the hormone testosterone, to those who are experiencing anemia, or as a way of reducing swelling. If you or a loved one is addicted to anabolic steroids it may be beneficial to look into drug rehab at a drug treatment center. Drug treatment centers offer a wide variety of programs and are essential tools in the recovery process.
Types of Steroids
Popular types of steroids include:
- Anadrol
- Oxandrin
- Winstrol
- Deca-durabolin
- Stanozol
- Dianabol
- Equipoise
How are Anabolic Steroids Used?
Anabolic steroid can be injected, taken orally through pills, rubbed on through creams and gels, or be used in the form of a skin patch. Injection is the most common form of administration and is typically done through the muscle of the body. In serious cases of abuse, up to 100 times the recommended medical amount can be taken. When a person takes two or more different type of anabolic steroids at a time they are taking part in “stacking”, a practice meant to increase muscular mass at a faster rate.
When anabolic steroids are used by those in the medical field, these drugs are used to prevent bone loss, increase levels of testosterone in those with low amounts, help those with cancer, assist in the process of puberty, encourage eating, and help those with liver problems. If someone uses anabolic steroids illegally they typically use them to increase muscle mass (which may also improve physical appearance), reduce the amount of fat in the body, and improve sports performance. Illegal steroids are typically taken by sports players, teens, and body builders but can also be taken by females and business men.
Signs/Symptoms of Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids can cause a variety of symptoms in users. These symptoms may change the body and severely reduce levels of self-esteem. Call one of the many drug and alcohol rehab centers today before you face symptoms of steroid use. Symptoms of anabolic steroid use include:
- Increase in weight
- Oiliness in the hair and skin
- Cysts
- High cholesterol & blood pressure
- Heightened sexual desire
- Acne
- Shaking
- Behavioral changes (aggressiveness)
- Stretch marks
- Bloating
Anabolic Steroid Use in Men
- Reduction in testicle size
- Low sperm count
- Balding
- Prostate cancer risk
- Painful urination
- Breast development (irreversible except through plastic surgery)
- Infertility
Anabolic Steroid Use in Women
- Facial hair
- Change in voice (deeper)
- Baldness
- Enlarged clitoris
- Menstrual dysfunction
Effects of Anabolic Steroids
The effects of steroids are proven to be very harmful, and although beginning physical effects may seem worth the risk, internal damage associated with these drugs can be irreversible. Drug treatment centers have been proven effective in treating users of anabolic steroids and many offer specialized treatment programs to promote a full recovery. Long-term effects of steroid use include:
- Cancer
- Depression
- Liver disease
- Tumors in the kidneys and liver
- Jaundice
- Heart Complications
- AIDS/ HIV
Some studies have suggested that addiction can take place in someone taking anabolic steroids. Those with such an addiction may have difficulty stopping use of steroids and may crave the drug the more its use continues. Also, when someone addicted to steroids finally ceases using it, they experience pain similar to withdrawal pains of other drug types.
Addiction to anabolic steroids can be a complicated dilemma, especially when facing this problem alone. By calling a drug rehab facility for treatment for drug abuse, you will be given support to overcome your addiction as well as be offered individualized therapy sessions and programs. You may not be able to stop steroid use on your own, but with the help of a drug treatment center, recovery is possible.
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