The Dangers Of Antibiotic Steroids
Why is it so dangerous?
What are long term physical affects of steroids use?
MALE
- Steroid abuse disrupts the normal production of hormones in the body, causing both reversible and irreversible changes. Changes that can be reversed include reduced sperm production and shrinking of the testicles (testicular atrophy).
- In the female body, anabolic steroids cause masculinization. Breast size and body fat decrease, the skin becomes coarse, the clitoris enlarges, and the voice deepens. Women may experience excessive growth of body hair but lose scalp hair. With continued administration of steroids, some of these effects become irreversible.
What are some mental affects of steroid use?
MALE AND FEMALE
- Case reports and small studies indicate that anabolic steroids, when used in high doses, increase irritability and aggression. Some steroid abusers report that they have committed aggressive acts, such as physical fighting or armed robbery, theft, vandalism, or burglary. Abusers who have committed aggressive acts or property crimes generally report that they engage in these behaviors more often when they take steroids than when they are drug free. A recent study suggests that the mood and behavioral effects seen during anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse may result from secondary hormonal changes.
In three, high steroid doses did produce greater feelings of irritability and aggression than did placebo, although the effects appear to be highly variable across individuals. In one study, the drugs did not have that effect. One possible explanation, according to the researchers, is that some but not all anabolic steroids increase irritability and aggression. Recent animal studies show an increase in aggression after steroid administration.
In a few controlled studies, aggression or adverse, overt behaviors resulting from the administration of anabolic steroid use have been reported by a minority of volunteers.
Can steroid abuse be fatal?
MALE AND FEMALE
- In rare cases, steroid abuse can create a situation where the body may be susceptible to heart attacks and strokes, which can be fatal. Here's how: Steroid use can lead to a condition called atherosclerosis, which causes fat deposits inside arteries to dis- rupt blood flow.
What short term medical conditions can steroid use cause?
- MEN - Even though anabolic steroids are derived from male sex hormones, men who choose to take them can experience some of the following effects:
- Short-term
- Reduced sperm count
- Damage to the heart
- Impotence
- Difficulty or pain while urinating
- WOMEN - If a woman uses steroids, some "masculinization" effects may occur:
- Short-term
- Breast reduction
- Excessive hair growth