Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic steroids are a synthetic drug which imitates the effects of the male sex hormone testosterone. Anabolic steroids are often prescribed to men with abnormally low testosterone levels, or to men with anemia.

While steroids may be legitimately prescribed by a physician, they are often used illegally by individuals seeking to build muscle mass. In recent years, professional athletes in baseball, football, and other sports have been implicated in the illegal use of steroids, leading to Congressional investigations into the practice.

The 2008 documentary Bigger, Stronger, Faster examines the prevalent use of steroids and performance enhancing drugs in the bodybuilding community. Cultural icons such as Hulk Hogan and Arnold Schwarzenegger are examined for the legal handling of their steroid use.

The use of steroids can have severe and debilitating long-term effects on the body. Steroids can damage internal organs such as the liver and heart, can create abrupt mood changes, and in teenagers, can permanently stunt growth.

In February 2009, professional baseball player Alex Rodriguez admitted to taking the Boli steroid which he and an unidentified cousin had obtained from the Dominican Republic and smuggled into the United States. Rodriguez claimed that he was not aware at the time that Boli was an illegal substance.Gather: Boli Steroids Discussed in A-Rod Press Conference

1. Nicknames: "roids" or "juice"
2. Developed: 1930s
3. Side Effects: Acne, Cancer, Aggressive Behavior
4. Baseball players accused of using steroids: Barry Bonds, Jason Giambi, Roger Clemens, Mark McGwire, Jose Canseco

Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using Anabolic Steroids.