Since the early 1950s, androgenic steroids have increased in use as has public awareness of the effects of these drugs upon the body. Initially used by athletes to increase strength, stamina and speed, people are more recently using them simply because they are dissatisfied with their appearance. Although some believe the effects of increased skeletal muscle and athletic performance are desirable, the associated side effects are often dramatic and hold long-term, potentially damaging effects.
Psychiatric Dysfunction
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, androgenic steroids contribute to psychiatric dysfunction. Researchers have found that they lead to aggression, extreme mood swings, manic type behavior that can lead to violence, paranoid jealousy, extreme irritability, depression, delusions and impaired judgment from feeling invincible. Outside of medical terminology, these symptoms are often described as "roid rage," referring to the side effects of androgenic steroids on the brain.
Liver Failure
According to the Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine and Science, steroids can have a profoundly negative effect on the liver. This potential is greater for those steroids taken orally than taken through injection. Lesions on the liver have been reported and decreased hepatic excretory function observed. These reports and observations essentially mean that the liver function is significantly reduced through exposure to androgenic steroids. Degeneration can lead to liver fibrosis and hypertension.
Acne
According to RxList.com, the acne skin breakouts are believed to be caused by the increase in hormones and oil production in the body. It has a classic presentation on the chest but can also develop over the face, arms, neck and back. The acne often appears as small bumps that may itch and are sometimes pustular, according to DermNetNZ.com. Unlike acne vulgaris, the lesions are the same size and nodules are very rare.
Hypertension
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, steroid abuse can also lead to elevated blood pressure. This hypertension can lead to other negative side effects in the body, including cardiac dysfunction, headache, stroke and pulmonary embolism.
Sex Characteristics
Both men and women suffer from side effects of their secondary sexual characteristics and sex drive, according to the Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine and Science. Male side effects include reduced size of the testicles, decreased sperm cell production, increased number of abnormal sperm cells, male breast formation and decreased sexual desire. The Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine and Science also reported that females will experience an increase in sexual desire, enlargement of the clitoris, growth retardation of unborn infants, fetal death, male pattern baldness, lowering of the voice and an increase in facial hair growth.
Priapism
According to Drugs.com, men who use androgenic steroids may experience a prolonged and painful erection that is not associated with sexual stimulation. This is called priapism and is a medical emergency that must be addressed immediately to avoid any permanent damage to the muscle and vasculature of the penis.
Rapid Weight Gain
This is a reported desired side effect of androgenic steroids for body builders and other performance athletes. According to Drugs.com, rapid weight gain is accomplished when the steroids stimulate the athlete's appetite and cause a rapid growth in muscle development. Although often considered a positive side effect of the steroid use, athletes may increase the use of the medication or take additional types of drugs to increase the effect and cause even more rapid gains. This increases the potential risk for other medical conditions caused by the steroids.
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