Anabolic steroids, specifically called anabolic-androgenic steroids, are synthetic compounds similar to the male hormone testosterone. Like testosterone, anabolic steroids have the effect of muscle development and the growth of male sexual characteristics. Muscle growth is the anabolic effect of these compounds while the growth of sexual characteristics is the androgenic effect.
There are various reasons to abuse steroids, including: to improve athletic performance, to increase muscle mass, or to reduce body fat.
Someone who is addicted to steroids may start using them because they want to improve their appearance or performance. Over time, they become more dependent on steroids, but in a different way than someone who is addicted to heroin or opiates. Instead of experiencing a rush or high when taking them, the steroid user finds that they feel better when using them than when not.
Steroid use typically begins because people hope to improve their athletic performance or appearance.
Addiction occurs when steroid use continues despite negative consequences, you can no longer control its use, and you have withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them.
Steroid addicts may experience irritability and have difficulty sleeping as results of use. And some steroid users turn to other drugs, such as opioids, to reduce these problems caused by steroids.
Complications and Effects of Long-Term Steroid Abuse
There are a number of complications and health problems associated with steroid abuse, including: acne, aggression, bad breath, depression, heart disease, infertility, baldness, nausea, rage, and tremors. However, long-term steroid abuse can act on some of the same brain pathways and chemicals—including dopamine, serotonin, and opioid systems—that are affected by other drugs. This can result in a significant effect on mood and behavior.
Also, long-term abuse of anabolic steroids can lead to serious, even permanent health problems, such as: kidney failure or problems, liver damage, enlarged heart, high blood pressure, and changes in blood cholesterol. These problems increase the risk of stroke and heart attack.
