A number of athletes have taken a type of steroid known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) that help build muscle mass and improve strength. AASs are synthetic revisions of the hormone testosterone. The anabolic effect encourages muscle strength, while the androgenic effects assist in the production of facial hair and the development of a deeper voice.
Two of the common anabolic-androgenic steroids are methyltestosterone (Android) and oxandrolone (Oxandrin). Steroids come in capsules, tablets and injectable liquids.
AASs have been approved specifically to control inflammation in the body, not as a means to build muscle. Not only do most sports organizations forbid the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids by athletes, it is also against the law to use them as to improve athletic performance.
Because of these restrictions, steroid drugs are often manufactured in other parts of the world and smuggled into the U.S., and their safety and purity is questionable. Regardless of these risks, some people continue to pursue the athletic effects of steroids.
Muscle Building
The primary reason anabolic-androgenic steroids are so attractive to athletes is their ability to increase muscle mass. Steroids stimulate muscle tissue in the body to become stronger and grow larger.
They also prevent muscle breakdown. Athletes sometimes take steroids in an effort to improve endurance, run faster, lift heavier weights or jump higher.
Accelerated Recovery Time
Anabolic-androgenic steroids may also help athletes more quickly recuperate from intense workout sessions by lessening the amount of muscle damage that takes place. This speedier recovery time allows the athlete to extend workout time and train more frequently. Fluid retention frequently results from anabolic-androgenic steroids. This causes muscle tissue to appear bloated.
Enhanced Mental Strength
Some athletes may like the powerful feelings they get from anabolic-androgenic steroids. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, while many users of steroids may feel good about themselves, this sense of invincibility can lead to impaired judgment.
