What are Anabolic Steroids (Anabolic-androgenic steroids – AAS)?
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are a class of steroid hormones, derivatives of testosterone. They enhance protein synthesis within muscle cells, resulting in growth (anabolism) of muscle size. Anabolic steroids were discovered in the 1930s. They are widely used in medicine to: — Stimulate bone growth — Improve appetite — Stimulate puberty — Enhance muscle growth They are commonly used in such chronic wasting conditions as AIDS and cancer. Excessive doses of anabolic steroids can result in elevated bad cholesterol (*LDL) levels, lower good cholesterol levels (*HDL), acne, hypertension, liver damage and heart problems. *HDL = high-density lipoprotein. LDL = Low-density lipoprotein Sportsmen and sportswomen may be tempted to take anabolic steroids to enhance their performance. They are controlled drugs in most of the developed world and many countries in the developing world. Most sporting organizations worldwide ban their use.
