What is the most important information I should know about anabolic steroids?
While anabolic steroids have legitimate medical uses, they are frequently misused due to their muscle-building and performance-enhancing effects.
Steroid dependence and withdrawal can also occur.
Anabolic Steroids Use in Weight Training.© Getty Images
Of these individuals, an estimated one million have experienced steroiddependence.
Learn more about how anabolic steroids are used, their psychological effects, and treatments that can help.
What Are Anabolic Steroids?
These are man-made substances; there is nothing “natural” about them.
They are supposed to be available by prescription only for specific medical purposes.
Of those in treatment, 86% said they initiated opioid use to counteractinsomniaandirritabilitycaused by their steroid use.
Are Anabolic Steroids Addictive?
Some individuals who misuse anabolic steroids can develop patterns of behavior that are typicalsymptoms of addiction.
The percentage of those who continue to use in spite of negative consequences is not known.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
They later began to be misused by athletes in other sports because of their performance-enhancing capabilities.
Many of these products are marketed and labeled as dietary supplements that can purportedly increase muscle mass and strength.
Steroids are categorized as Schedule III substances under the Controlled Substances Act.
They are only available by prescription, and their use without a valid prescription is illegal.
There has been very little research into treatment for steroid misuse and dependence.
For example,antidepressantsfor depression or analgesics for headaches and pain.
Some people experiencing steroid withdrawal receive medication to help restore their hormonal systems.
Others are treated withbehavioral therapiesfor withdrawal symptoms that go beyond pharmacological treatment.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Very few local school districts have established steroid prevention programs.
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