Anabolic steroids are a group of synthetic drugs prescribed for treatment of delayed puberty or body wasting seen in AIDS or cancer. These drugs are made to simulate the actions of testosterone on the body, and may be prescribed in cases of low testosterone hormone levels. They are also frequently abused by those wishing to increase muscle size or enhance athletic performance. The potential long-term effects of these drugs makes this a dangerous proposition.
Liver Problems
Anabolic steroids may have a variety of effects on the liver when taken long-term. Inflammation or injury of the liver may be reflected by abnormal blood tests. These abnormalities usually resolve when the drug is stopped. More serious liver damage may create jaundice, a yellowing of the skin, due to impaired liver function. A condition called peliosis hepatitis is characterized by blood-filled cysts in the liver, according to Drugs.com. It may lead to abnormal liver function or life-threatening abdominal bleeding. Benign liver tumors or malignant cancer of the liver may occur in those taking anabolic steroids.
Cardiovascular Problems
Steroids taken for weight gain or hormone replacement have many effects which could lead to a heart attack or heart failure, notes the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control. Sodium and water retention increase the blood volume and blood pressure, placing stress upon the heart. Additional stress may result from the increased muscle mass to which the heart must now pump blood. Over time, these steroids tend to raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol, which could lead to atherosclerosis, and eventually, a heart attack. This combination of factors also increases the risk of stroke.
Stunted Growth
Anabolic steroids, especially when taken inappropriately, trigger closing of the growth plates of the bones. This may lead to premature cessation of growth, and therefore shorter stature, in individuals using these drugs before skeletal maturation, notes the Association Against Steroid Abuse.
Psychological Effects
The Association Against Steroid Abuse notes that these drugs interfere with the normal function of the brain chemicals. This may lead to a long-term risk of aggression or depression. Depression may also occur upon discontinuation of the drug. Other potential mood effects include irritability, jealousy, anger and hostility. Impaired judgment may also develop, which, when combined with some of these mood changes, presents a dangerous situation.
Hormonal Effects
Anabolic steroids may impair normal hormone functions in the body, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. In males this could lead to shrunken testicles, infertility, breast growth or prostate cancer. This is seen in females as growth of facial hair, thinning of head hair, voice deepening and menstrual irregularities.
Infection
The risk of certain infections is increased with long-term use of steroids. HIV or hepatitis viruses may be transmitted by needles used for injectable steroids. In addition, skin infections may be seen, says the Office of Diversion Control.
References
- National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens: Anabolic Steroids
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: Steroids (Anabolic-Androgentic)
- U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control: A Guide for Understanding Steroids and Related Substances
- Association Against Steroid Abuse: Side Effects of Anabolic Steroid Abuse (Long Term and Short Term)
- Drugs.com: Oxandrolone
