Anabolic Steroids, as the name suggests are a type of steroid hormones. Their major use is artificial muscle growth, commonly used to enhance various physical capabilities. Anabolic steroids work by increasing protein synthesis in the muscular cells thereby increasing anabolism of muscles. These steroids are derived from the male hormone, testosterone. Therefore, they are also effective in maintaining and developing male sexual qualities.
Discovery and usage
Anabolic steroids were discovered during the early 20th century. Firstly, they were used for purely medical purposes which included stimulation of growth within the body. Mainly targeted were bones, sexual properties and muscular functions. Later, these substances were found to be highly effective in the treatment of cancer and even AIDS.
Side effects
Although very useful from a medical point of view, these steroids produce severe side effects when used without proper medical guidance or in improper doses. The most common side effects are unnatural increase in blood pressure, acne, increase in cholesterol levels, early heart attacks and severe damage to the liver.
Controversy
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