What are Anabolic Steroids?
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.