Introduction to anabolic steroids

What are anabolic steroids?

Anabolic steroids are medications that are manufactured forms of testosterone. The technical term for these compounds is “anabolic-androgenic steroids” (AAS). “Anabolic” refers to tissue building (mainly muscle), and “androgenic” refers to a group of sex hormones called androgens.

Testosterone is the main androgen. It stimulates the development of male characteristics. Levels of testosterone are naturally much higher in men than in women.

How do anabolic steroids work?

Anabolic steroids (artificial androgens) work by activating androgen receptors in your body and mimicking the effects of natural androgens.

Anabolic steroid use

The main reason people use anabolic steroids is to increase lean muscle mass when using them in conjunction with weight training.

Non-athlete weightlifters (bodybuilders) typically use them to improve their appearance. Anabolic steroid use is often associated with a form of body dysmorphic disorder called muscle dysmorphia.

For athletes, increasing muscle mass may also promote strength, which can improve strength-based sports performance.

What are the side effects of anabolic steroids?

Each type of anabolic steroid and each brand has different possible side effects. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider or a pharmacist about possible side effects of the specific medication you’re taking or thinking of taking.

In general, common side effects of anabolic steroids include:

• Acne or oily skin.

• Swelling in your ankles from mild fluid retention.

• Stimulation of your prostate, which can cause urinary symptoms such as difficulty peeing.

• Breast enlargement or tenderness in men.

• Decrease in breast size in women.

• Worsening of sleep apnea.

• Smaller testicles.

In conclusion, anabolic steroids work! It’s a personal decision between you and your healthcare provider whether you want to get huge, shredded and bask in peak male performance. 

Team Faer

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