Personally, I only know the general knowledge many have about anabolic steroids—they are used to enhance performance and appearance by allowing muscles to strengthen and grow faster than normal. This ‘fake’ hormone is similar to testosterone (which also plays a part in increasing muscle mass and strength, among other things). These steroids are mostly used by athletes and fitness professionals as advertisements tend to attract these people most by saying these ‘pills’ will allow them to bulk up and gain muscle faster. Additionally, these advertisements fail to mention the side effects and risks that come with using anabolic steroids. Many of these include: high cholesterol and blood pressure, fluid retention, menstrual irregularities/ infertility, sterility and decreased hormone levels (in men). In women these steroids can produce manly features such as facial hair and deepening of the voice. Because of the possible dangers that are brought on by these, they are illegal.
The possession and distribution of anabolic steroids without a legitimate prescription is illegal. Steroids are placed under Schedule III drugs meaning they are accepted for certain medical uses and have a mild to moderate addiction potential. There are many consequences that come with being caught illegally with these drugs. The maximum punishment for selling them is 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine IF this is the person’s first offense—and time and fine cost just increase as it goes on.
Androstenetrione is a steroid that is not regulated by the FDA that works to enhance athletic performance and is often used in the place of prohormones, which are inactive until converted by the liver. The function of this is to make the body think there is less estrogen, therefore promoting the release and formation of testosterone. This steroid is highly toxic to the liver and may cause damage to this and many other organs, and may also lead to heart problems.
In my opinion, I don’t think that anabolic steroids of any type should be used unless it is for a serious medical condition. There are much safer and more efficient ways of enhancing athletic ability or your figure, and I just do not think that the costs and risks are worth it. My simply eating healthy and maintaining consistent physical activities one can gradually and healthily improve, and this allows them to prevent ingesting chemicals and harmful substances.
