Anabolic Steroids

AKA

roids, juice , gear and tradenames, Anadrol, anavar, dianabol, durabolin, equipose, finajet, maxibolin, primobolin, stanozolol, testosterone, winstrol etc.

Steroid factoid In 2005/2006 there were 270 seizures of illegal anabolic steroids in England and Wales in 2004. The amount rose from 160 kg in 2003 to 560 kg in 2004 - a 51% rise.
(Home Office Statistical Bulletin 2006)

What is it?

Anabolic steroids are a group of hormones found naturally in our bodies. They are involved in growth, physical development and the function of the reproductive organs.

The drugs are manmade versions of the same or similar hormones. They come as pills or capsules. They are usually taken by mouth, but can be injected. Their medical use is limited to boosting red blood cell numbers in anaemic patients.

Bodybuilders, sports fanatics and athletes use them to increase the rate and amount of muscle growth.

Anabolic steroids aren't the same as the steroids used to treat eczema and asthma - these are corticosteroids.

How does it make you feel?

Taking anabolic steroids, training hard and eating a high protein diet will build your body weight up and increase the size of your muscles. Some people say they feel more aggressive and competitive as well.

Occasionally people get 'roid rage' where they are violent and sexually abusive No-one knows if this is down to the drugs or the people though.

What are the health effects?

Anabolics can stunt your growth if you are young. Heavy, regular use could shrink your testicles, raise your blood pressure and damage your liver, kidneys and heart. Girls can end up with more body hair, smaller breasts and a deeper voice.

The law

Anabolic steroids are prescription only drugs. Possessing them for personal use is not illegal. But, counterfeit steroids that are quite readily available over the internet are Class C drugs. The maximum sentence for possession of these is 2 years in prison. For supply it is 14 years in prison. Both sentences can come with an unlimited fine. Drug testing has outlawed the use of steroids in sport.

Written by Kate Roach

Last updated July 2007

Further help and advice

Steroid pages on TheSite.org

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