Muscle-building supplements are often taken by body builders or athletes for the purpose of building a muscular body or for enhancing their performance at competitive events. Some of the popular muscle-building supplements often used include anabolic-androgenic steroids and creatine. Although illegal, androstenedione is another muscle-building supplement that is often used by bodybuilders. All these supplements have their own side-effects and some of these are listed below.
Changes in Appearance
MayoClinic.com states that muscle-building supplements may lead to changes in appearance in both men and women. Anabolic-androgenic steroids that are used as supplements for building muscle mass and enhancing performance are mostly synthetic modifications of the hormone testosterone. Some people may take this hormone straight. Use of these steroids can cause men to develop prominent breasts and become bald. They may also have shrunken testicles and infertility may also occur. Women taking these steroids may develop a deeper voice and may lose hair. An increase in bodily hair and an enlarged clitoris may also occur as a side-effect of these drugs.
Weight Gain and Sudden Cramps
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that muscle-building supplements may cause weight gain in an individual. It goes on to say that creatine, which is a naturally occurring amino acid find in meat and fish, is often taken as a supplement among body builders and competitive athletes. Individuals taking these supplements may experience weight gain. Muscle cramps, strains and pulls may also occur.
Other Dangers
Other side-effects of creatine supplements include diarrhea and stomach upset. These drugs may also cause high blood pressure, liver dysfunction, dizziness and kidney damage. Anabolic-androgenic steroids can also cause abnormalities and tumors in the liver. These steroids also tend to increase the low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol and decrease the high-density lipoprotein or good cholesterol. Aggressive behavior such rage or violence and psychiatric disorders such as depression are also likely side-effects of these steroids, states MayoClinic.com. In growing children, the use of steroids may also inhibit growth and development and increase the chances of future health problems. Another muscle-building supplement called androstenedione or andro also has side-effects such as diminished sperm production and enlargement of testicles in males. In women, it may cause acne, deepening of voice and male-pattern baldness.
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