Scottish Drugs Forum
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Drug group - Miscellaneous substances
Anabolic steroids are a group of hormones responsible for the development and functioning of the reproductive organs. They control the growth, development and function of the male sex organs, and are responsible for facial hair and deepening of the voice - androgenic effects. These hormones also have an anabolic (building-up) effect on the body by increasing the retention of nitrogen (necessary for the development and growth of muscle tissue). Anabolic steroids have both androgenic and anabolic side effects.
Drug names
Anadrol, Dianabol, Parabolin, Stanozolol, Testosterone cypionate
Street names
Gear, roids, stuff
Brand names
Deca-Durabolin (Organon), Stromba (Sanofi Winthrop)
Drug effect
Assists muscle development
Description
Tablets, injections, capsules
Therapeutic use
In the treatment of some aplastic anaemias, thrombosis, and to build muscle for patients who are long term bed-ridden.
Street use
Body building, increasing muscle strength
Dependency
Yes - psychological
Withdrawal
Some steroid users have reported lethargy and depression on stopping use.
Long term use
It is difficult to offer conclusive evidence regarding the effects of the long term use of steroids, as most users take multiple combinations and doses well above the recommended level. There is some evidence that persistent and heavy use may cause infertility or lack of sex drive in men, while some men may become sexually violent. Women may develop irreversible masculine side-effects such as deeper voice and smaller breasts, and there is a possibility of stunted growth in young people. If injected, there is a risk of infection and circulatory problems.
Overdose risk
Can cause high blood pressure. In extreme cases, liver damage can result and there is some evidence of liver cancer.
Legal status
Prescription Only Medicines
Class C, Schedule 4 Part II
May be possessed in medicinal form without a prescription, but illegal to supply to others.
Maximum penalty
Possession: 2 years
Supplying: 5 years
SPECIAL NOTE
Steroids are extremely diverse and medical or pharmacological advice should be sought to avoid being wrongly informed. Using other substances, for example stimulants, can raise blood pressure and make the heart beat faster. Other drugs can increase the effects of paranoia produced by steroids. There have been recent reports of bodybuilders and athletes taking insulin to increase muscle mass, leading to cases of coma and brain damage caused by hypoglycaemia.