Anabolic Steroid Misuse
Understanding the risks of non-prescribed steroid use.
Steroid Misuse Can Be Dangerous
Anabolic steroids are Class C drugs and prescription-only. Using them without medical advice can cause serious physical and psychological side effects, as well as addiction.
Why People Misuse Steroids
Anabolic steroids are performance-enhancing drugs that increase muscle mass and decrease fat. Some people misuse them to improve their physical performance or appearance. This can be linked to body dysmorphic disorder, a condition where a person worries excessively about perceived flaws in their appearance.
Side Effects of Anabolic Steroid Misuse
Regular use can lead to serious health issues.
Physical Effects
- Reduced sperm count, infertility, and shrunken testicles in men.
- Facial hair growth, deepened voice, and problems with periods in women.
- For both: Heart attacks, strokes, liver or kidney failure, high blood pressure, and severe acne.
Psychological Effects
- Aggressive behaviour and severe mood swings.
- Paranoia and manic behaviour.
- Hallucinations and delusions.
Other Risks
- Addiction: Steroids can be addictive, with withdrawal symptoms like depression and anxiety.
- Needle Sharing: Injecting steroids carries risks of HIV and Hepatitis if needles are shared.
- Stunted Growth: If used by adolescents, it can cause premature ageing of the bones.
Getting Help
If you're struggling with steroid misuse, help is available.
The first step is to speak to a GP. They can provide confidential advice and may refer you to a drug counsellor. Treatment for steroid addiction is similar to other addictions and focuses on safely stopping use and managing withdrawal.
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