According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are man-made variants of the male sex hormone testosterone. The word anabolic is used to define muscle-building, while androgenic is a term that describes male sexual characteristics. Steroids are sometimes prescribed to treat diseases, such as AIDS and cancer, that deplete lean muscle mass. They are also popular among some athletes to help accelerate muscular development. AASs can be injected, taken orally or purchased as a cream or gel that is massaged into the skin. Experts at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) say when AASs are abused, they can cause a number of serious and sometimes long-term health problems. There are also several side effects linked to the long-term use of steroids.
The Brain and AASs
The NIDA says the early effects of anabolic androgenic steroids in the brain are unlike other potentially addictive drugs because they do not trigger an instant state of euphoria. AASs do not set off an immediate increase in the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is what causes the "high" that can propel substance abuse. However, when taken over an extended period of time, AASs can begin to influence dopamine, serotonin and opioid systems (controls pain, reward and addictive behaviors) in the brain. Ultimately, AASs can have a significant impact on mood as well as on conduct.
Physiological Effects
According to Antidrug, there are number of physiological effects associated with the long-term use of steroids. They are connected to the tremendous stress that they place on the body. These side effects are high blood pressure and cholesterol, a greater risk of blood clotting, fluid retention, a yellowing of the skin and body fluids (jaundice) and possibly liver cysts and kidney cancer.
Effects of Abuse
The Mayo Clinic reports that a number of athletes take anabolic-androgenic steroids at a much higher dose than what is prescribed. The DEA says the overuse and abuse of steroids has been linked to heart attacks and strokes. Men may develop larger breasts and their testicles get smaller. Women may acquire a deeper voice and develop an enlarged clitoris. Both sexes may be prone to severe acne and mental health problems, such as depression and drug dependency.
