Steroids are like "drugs" that has a potential for abuse, especially in sports where human edurance has become very competitive and highly demanding.  The term anabolic means to build, while its counterpart catabolic is to break down or burn. Thus, anabolic steroids are compounds such as testosterone, boldenone, etc., that build, strenghten, or speed up. The use of anabolic steroids has many applications, but the most notable of all is through competetion, and after all the main gaol is to win. And winning brings a lot of benefits that includes fame, fortune, endorsements, power, just to name a few. However, the use of steroids are without its downside as far as health and well being are concerned. Fair competetion must be promoted, and discourage the use of steroids. For this reasons, active and routine testing of steroids can help deter its use, and it's the best way to find out if they are using a rocket fuel, or regular fuel to win the race.

What are Steroids [Muscle Building]

Steroids are a class of compounds that includes cholesterol, corticosteroids, and sex hormones. Cholesterol adds rigidity to cell membranes, and plays an important role in formation of steroid hormone, bile acids, and Vitamin D.

Corticosteroids are steroids produce in the adrenal cortex of the brain. There are two types of corticosteroids which includes glucocorticoid that is involved in controlling the balance of glucose, and mineralocorticoids that regulates the body's electrolyte balance.

Sex hormones are responsible for the development of reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics such as deepening of the voice and beard growth in male. Male sex hormones are called androgens. Testosterone is the most important type of androgen. It is involved in the production of sperms and promotes the growth of male sex organs. Additionally, testosterone is also responsible for muscle development.               

Anabolic Steroids are synthetic substances related to testosterone. It is used by some athletes to promote and speed up muscle development. There are several types of anabolic steroids that are manufactured today. Some of the more popular types are Oxymetholone (Anadrol), Testosterone Cypionate (Depo-Testosterone), Stanozolol (Winstrol), etc.

Anabolic steroid works by binding to androgen receptor sites indirectly stimulating protein synthesis. It is at this point that muscle growth and development is enhanced and hasten. The gain in muscle strength and endurance is far beyond that which could be accomplished even in rigorous training. Although the gain is tremendous, the use of anabolic steroids has drawbacks. These include increased irritability, hot flashes, hypertension, depression, chills, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, euphoria, mood swings, and psychosis.