The dangers of anabolic steroids: what you should know before taking the risk

Building muscle takes time, consistent training and careful eating. That slow pace is exactly what leads some people to look for shortcuts, and anabolic steroids are the best-known and most dangerous one. In this article we explain what they are, why people use them, the risks involved and how to make progress in the gym without putting your health on the line.

What anabolic steroids are

Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances derived from testosterone, the main male sex hormone. They have two kinds of effect: anabolic, which stimulates muscle growth, and androgenic, which strengthens male characteristics such as a deeper voice or body hair growth.

In medicine, these substances have legitimate and very specific uses, for example in some cases of hormone deficiency or muscle loss linked to serious illness. In those cases they are prescribed by a doctor, in controlled doses and with regular follow-up. The problem starts when they are used without medical need, for appearance or performance, often at doses several times higher than therapeutic ones and bought through illegal channels with no guarantee of what they actually contain.

Why so many people take the risk

Social media is full of bodies that look easy to achieve, and it is not always made clear how they were built. Constant comparison, pressure to see results within weeks and the idea that "everyone uses them" push young adults in particular towards these substances. The first effects, such as more strength and size, appear quickly, which reinforces the illusion that they are worth it. The damage, by contrast, builds up silently and often only shows later.

The main health risks

Side effects depend on the substance, the dose and how long it is used, but some risks are well known:

• Heart and circulation: higher blood pressure, changes in cholesterol (the "good" kind falls and the "bad" kind rises) and a greater risk of heart attack and stroke, even in young people.
• Liver: especially with oral forms, liver damage, blood-filled cysts and, in rare cases, tumours can develop.
• Hormones: the body stops producing its own testosterone. In men this can lead to testicular shrinkage, infertility and breast tissue growth (gynaecomastia). In women it can cause a deeper voice, more body hair and menstrual changes, sometimes permanently.
• Skin and hair: severe acne and faster hair loss.
• Mood and behaviour: irritability, aggression, mood swings and, when stopping, depressive symptoms.
• Dependence: many people find it hard to stop, either for fear of losing the size they gained or because of mood changes.

There are also risks linked to how they are used: counterfeit or contaminated products and, with injections, infections and the spread of disease when equipment is shared.

Warning signs

If you use or have used these substances, or suspect someone close to you does, watch out for signs such as very rapid gains in weight and muscle, acne on the back and shoulders, sudden mood changes, high blood pressure or shortness of breath on exertion. In these cases, the most important step is to talk openly with a doctor. Stopping abruptly can also have effects, so coming off should be supervised.

Safe alternatives for building muscle

Natural results are slower, but they are yours and they do not charge interest on your health. The basics are simple:

• Progressive strength training: 3 to 4 sessions a week, gradually increasing the load or the number of repetitions.
• Enough protein: spread across the day's meals, from foods such as eggs, fish, lean meat, pulses and dairy.
• Rest: muscle grows during recovery. Sleeping 7 to 9 hours makes more difference than you might think.
• Patience and tracking: logging your workouts helps you see progress over months, not just weeks.

A qualified fitness professional and, if needed, a dietitian can help you put together a plan that suits you.

In summary

Anabolic steroids can deliver fast results, but the price can be high and long-lasting: the heart, liver, fertility and mental health are among the areas most affected. A well-planned training programme, good nutrition and rest remain the safest route. This article is for information only and does not replace advice from a doctor.