Anabolic steroids, which are chemicals similar to sex hormones, e.g. synthetic testosterone, help the body build more muscle (Freuenrich, 2004; Kowalski, 2003, 7). They help the athlete train longer and harder. Other synthetic anabolic steroids also have this effect. The substances are turned into hormones in the body, and it is in this form that they produce their effects. Anabolic steroids have dramatic and visible effects in building up muscles, but these benefits come at the price of serious health risks. There are immediate risks of psychiatric effects such as mood swings, personality changes, and violent outbursts. People with no criminal history have been known to commit murder while using steroids. Many users suffer from withdrawal symptoms if they stop using the drugs, and this causes them to become dependent on them after a while.
Testosterone is a male hormone, normally only present in small amounts in females, so female athletes taking anabolic steroids develop male characteristics (Freudenrich, 2004; Kowalski, 2003, 8). When they take these drugs, womenÆs voices become deeper, and they may grow beards and more body hair. Steroids also interfere with the menstrual cycle in female athletes, and they may become infertile. Males using steroids upset their normal hormonal balance, become less masculine, and their testicles may shrink. They may even become impotent. Their breasts may become enlarged, and their hair may fall out. Acne and stunted growth are problems for both sexes using anabolic steroids. These drugs cause headaches, muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting, hallucinations, and ligament and tendon ruptures (Bruce, 2004). Long-term risks of s
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