Steroids are organic compounds that play an important role in various biological functions. They may be natural or synthetic and are mainly divided into anabolic steroids and corticosteroids. Each type has specific uses, mechanism of action, and side effects.
What Are Steroids?
The term steroids [ref] has a variety of meanings. Steroids are substances, particularly hormones, that your body naturally generates. They facilitate the proper operation of cells, tissues, and organs. Balanced levels of these are necessary for body growth and reproduction. The term “steroids” also refers to man-made drugs, which are divided into two main types: corticosteroids and anabolic-androgenic steroids (or anabolics for short).
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are drugs that reduce inflammation and control the immune system by acting like the hormone cortisol. Drugs like prednisone block the causes of inflammation. Corticosteroid drugs like prednisone work by slowing down or stopping the immune system processes that cause inflammation.
Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids [ref] are lab-created drugs that replicate male sex hormones known as androgens, with testosterone being the primary type. These steroids are prescribed by doctors to stimulate skeletal muscle growth and develop male sexual characteristics in conditions like low testosterone (male hypogonadism), certain cancers, or AIDS. In the U.S., an estimated 3 to 4 million individuals use anabolic steroids without a prescription for nonmedical reasons. They are the most commonly used appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs (APEDs), often favored by athletes and bodybuilders to improve physical appearance.
Side Effects of Steroids [ref]
- Steroids are generally safe when taken for a short duration or in small doses.
- Possible side effects include:
- Increased appetite
- Mood changes
- Insomnia
- Most side effects naturally subside after completing the treatment.
- Avoid stopping steroids suddenly without first talking to your doctor.
- Your doctor will provide guidance to gradually reduce the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Uses of Anabolic Steroids [ref]
Anabolic steroids are artificial forms of testosterone, a male sex hormone that promotes muscular building.
Medical uses include:
- Treating boys with delayed puberty.
- Managing low testosterone levels in men.
- Helping individuals with muscle loss due to conditions like cancer, AIDS, and other health issues.
Forms of administration:
- Topical creams and patches.
- Injections.
- Nasal inhalers.
Side Effects of Anabolic steroids:
- Severe acne and fluid retention.
Long-term use in men:
- Reduced testosterone production.
- Smaller testicles, low sperm count, infertility, and breast growth.
Effects on women:
- Male-pattern baldness, facial hair, voice deepening, and menstrual changes.
Effects on teens:
- Stunted bone growth and reduced height.
High doses: severe mood fluctuations, hostility, and rage (“roid rage”).
Uses of Corticosteroids [ref]
The following conditions are treated with corticosteroids:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
- Lupus and other autoimmune diseases
- Multiple sclerosis
- Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
For allergy reactions:
- They may be used for short-term treatment of conditions like poison ivy rashes and other severe allergic reactions.
Side Effects of Corticosteroids: [ref]
- Side effects depend on the dose and duration of use.
- Short-term effects:
- Weight gain
- Puffy face
- Nausea
- Mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
- Other possible side effects:
- Thinner skin
- Acne
- Unusual hair growth
- Increased blood sugar and blood pressure
- Weakened immune system:
- decreased immunological function, which increases the risk of infections.
Long-term effects
- Taking corticosteroids in high doses and for a long time can cause:
- Osteoporosis (brittle bones that break easily)
- Slow growth in children
- Adrenal insufficiency (a life-threatening condition in which the adrenal glands fail to respond to stress in the body)
- Muscle weakness
- Eye problems (cataracts)
- Increased risk of diabetes.
Conclusion
Steroids, whether naturally occurring or synthetic, have unique benefits and mechanisms of action, but they can also cause some side effects. Corticosteroids are primarily used to reduce inflammation and manage conditions such as asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. They are generally safe for short-term use, but can cause side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, and increased susceptibility to infections. Anabolic steroids, on the other hand, are used to promote muscle growth and treat low testosterone or related conditions.
However, their abuse can lead to serious side effects such as acne, mental anxiety, and long-term effects on reproductive health. Steroids can be beneficial when prescribed appropriately, but following medical guidelines is crucial to minimizing their risks and preventing abuse. For safe and effective use, always consult your doctor before starting or stopping steroid treatment.
