Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic steroids mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones. First synthesised in the 1930s, anabolic steroids are now used therapeutically in the treatment of wasting conditions, for example when treating bedridden patients whilst recovering, and for those with cancer and AIDS. They are also used to stimulate bone growth and appetite.

Testosterone is a naturally occurring anabolic steroid but now there are many chemicals of a similar structure manufactured. Nandrolone (19-nortestosterone) was the first synthesised anabolic steroid and has been the most commonly used. Nandrolone has a less potent effect in androgenic tissue than testosterone, thus giving more of the wanted effects (anabolic, muscle building) rather than the unwanted (androgenic, increased male characteristics) side effects.

Anabolic steroids include clenbuterol, nandrolone, testosterone, trenbolone, stanozolo and oxymetholone. Taken regularly, they act as body builders by increasing muscle mass. These drugs are addictive, requiring an increase in dose over time to give the same effect and have withdrawal effects if suddenly stopped.