Anabolic Steroids and Athletes

Are anabolic steroids effective for the athlete? This is not a simple issue because the evidence is not straightforward. The major problem with the data analysis has been that these athletes take so many other drugs and supplements, it is hard to pinpoint which agent is actually responsible for the enhanced performance.

There have been many short term studies in laboratories and anecdotal reports which have revealed that anabolic steroids do increase strength and lean body mass. Other studies have shown improved performance and endurance after taking these agents. One of the major problems with the abuse of these drugs is that there are many fake or counterfeit products on the market. And thus, there is no response seen.

Physiological effects of Testosterone and Anabolic

While all the physiological effects of testosterone appear beneficial, long term use of the steroids has been associated with a range of side effects and complications.

CNS -increased libido, anger, anxiety, depression
Hypothalamus -decreases GnRH, LH, FSH and increases GH
Larynx -lower voice
Breast -increased growth
Liver -increased LDL, decreased HDL cholesterol
Kidney -increases erythropoietin synthesis
Genitals -increases growth, spermatogenesis, erection
Prostate -increases size and secretions
Skin -increase facial and body hair, increases sebum production
Bone -increased bone density
Muscle -increased muscle mass and strength
Fat -increased fat breakdown
Blood -increased levels of red blood cells

Because of the fear of drug testing, most professional athletes take the drug off-season. There is a lot of evidence that anabolic steroid abuse is also rampant among both amateur male and female athletes. How this craze gets started remains a puzzle. It is believed that one reason many be the easier availability of the steroids. In some cases there is peer pressure, encouragement from coaches or parents. And other individuals think they have a poor body image. Whatever the reason, anabolic steroid use is widely practiced globally and with the increasing money in professional sports, the use is more likely to grow in the future.

For more information on anabolic steroids, visit http://www.steroidsrx.com/