Summary

Anabolic steroids are man-made substances related to male sex hormones. Doctors use anabolic steroids to treat some hormone problems in men, delayed puberty, and muscle loss from some diseases.

Bodybuilders and athletes often use anabolic steroids to build muscles and improve athletic performance. Using them this way is not legal or safe. Abuse of anabolic steroids has been linked with many health problems. They include

• Acne

• Breast growth and shrinking of testicles in men

• Voice deepening and growth of facial hair in women

• High blood pressure

• Heart problems, including heart attack

• Liver disease, including cancer

• Kidney damage

• Aggressive behavior

NIH: National Institute on Drug Abuse