Anabolic Steroids: What They Are, Uses, Side Effects & Risks
Anabolic Steroids – A Comprehensive Overview
Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of the male sex hormone testosterone. They were originally developed to treat medical conditions that cause low testosterone levels or muscle wasting, but over time they have also become popular for performance enhancement and body‑building. Below is a fact‑based guide covering their uses, benefits, risks, legal status, and practical considerations.
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1. Medical Uses (Therapeutic Context)
| Condition | How Steroids Help | Typical Dose & Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Hypogonadism (low testosterone) | Replaces deficient hormone → improves libido, energy, https://git.nusaerp.com bone density, muscle mass | 100–200 mg/day intramuscularly for several weeks/months |
| Chronic wasting diseases (e.g., HIV‑associated cachexia) | Stimulates appetite & muscle protein synthesis | 50–150 mg weekly |
| Delayed puberty in boys | Promotes secondary sexual characteristics | 5–10 mg/kg/day orally or 100–200 mg intramuscularly |
| Anemia from chronic disease | Enhances erythropoiesis via increased EPO | Dose varies by indication |
> Note: Clinical use requires close monitoring for side effects (e.g., polycythemia, thrombosis).
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6. Summary of Key Findings
- Structure & Biosynthesis: Anabolic steroid derived from cholesterol; produced mainly in Leydig cells via CYP17A1-catalyzed reactions.
- Mechanism of Action: Binds androgen receptor → transcriptional activation of genes involved in growth and differentiation.
- Physiological Roles: Critical for early development, somatic growth, and later male sexual function.
- Clinical Relevance: Hormone replacement therapy; potential therapeutic target for growth disorders or anabolic side‑effects.
Prepared by:
Your Name – Undergraduate Biochemistry Student
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