Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), are a class of drugs that are structurally related to testosterone, the main male sex hormone, and produce effects by binding to the androgen receptor (AR). Anabolic steroids have a number of medical uses but are also used by athletes to increase muscle size, strength, and performance.

Health risks can be produced by long-term use or excessive doses of AAS. These effects include harmful changes in cholesterol levels (increased low-density lipoprotein and decreased high-density lipoprotein), acne, high blood pressure, liver damage (mainly with most oral AAS), and left ventricular hypertrophy. These risks are further increased when athletes take steroids alongside other drugs, causing significantly more damage to their bodies. The effect of anabolic steroids on the heart can cause myocardial infarction and strokes. Conditions pertaining to hormonal imbalances such as gynecomastia and testicular size reduction may also be caused by AAS. In women and children, AAS can cause irreversible masculinization.

Bodybuilders who use anabolic steroids often gain large muscles and are usually shorter in height. Corticosteroids have been used to reduce inflammation, prevent the rejection of transplanted organs, and treat the complications of long-term corticosteroid therapy. They are often prescribed for people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions.

When used properly, you can expect to see most of these positive effects. But when abused, corticosteroids can cause several harmful health effects, such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, osteoporosis, and cataracts..