Anabolic Steroids: What They Are, Uses, Side Effects & Risks


Anabolic Steroids – A Comprehensive Overview


Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of the male sex hormone testosterone. They were originally developed to treat medical conditions that cause low testosterone levels or muscle wasting, but over time they have also become popular for performance enhancement and body‑building. Below is a fact‑based guide covering their uses, benefits, risks, legal status, and practical considerations.



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1. Medical Uses (Therapeutic Context)



Condition How Steroids Help Typical Dose & Duration


Hypogonadism (low testosterone) Replaces deficient hormone → improves libido, energy, bone density, muscle mass 100–200 mg/day intramuscularly for several weeks/months


Chronic wasting diseases (e.g., HIV‑associated cachexia) Stimulates appetite & muscle protein synthesis 50–150 mg weekly


Delayed puberty in boys Promotes secondary sexual characteristics 5–10 mg/kg/day orally or 100–200 mg intramuscularly


Anemia from chronic disease Enhances erythropoiesis via increased EPO Dose varies by indication


> Note: Clinical use requires close monitoring for side effects (e.g., polycythemia, thrombosis).




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6. Summary of Key Findings




Structure & Biosynthesis: Anabolic steroid derived from cholesterol; produced mainly in Leydig cells via CYP17A1-catalyzed reactions.


Mechanism of Action: Binds androgen receptor → transcriptional activation of genes involved in growth and differentiation.


Physiological Roles: Critical for early development, somatic growth, and later male sexual function.


Clinical Relevance: Hormone replacement therapy; potential therapeutic target for growth disorders or anabolic side‑effects.






Prepared by:

Your Name – Undergraduate Biochemistry Student




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End of Report

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