Anabolic Steroids

Several aspects of your body are controlled by a set of closely related molecules, which are steroids. Each of these contains alcohol and or keytone groups connected to a large hydrocarbon structure. The carbon backbone of this structure is the steroid system connected by the sharing of two carbons. Testosterone is one of several anabolic steroids. Testosterone promotes muscle growth, the development if male secondary sex characteristics, and the production of sperm. People in need of muscle growth and athletes in need of weight are tempted to use steroids. The synthetic versions of the hormone have the anabolic characteristics of testosterone but do not rapidly decompose a testosterone itself does if it is taken orally or by injection. There can be significant side effects, such as liver damage, to taking anabolic steroids over long periods at high doses. For females, side effects include the development of male sex characteristics such as facial hair and a deeper voice, and some loss of female sex characteristics. All compounds with the steroid system are highly lipophilic, so they readily dissolve in fat and consequently remain in the body for some time.

Lipophilic: the ability of a chemical compound to dissolve in fats, oils, and non-polar solvents.

The common misconception is that steroids are a substance put in the body to gain just muscle and weight. It is commonly used in medical procedures to rehab injuries. Cortisone shots are a common use for sore muscles and are injected into patients. Steroids are overused because the competition is so extreme in most sports athletes are looking for the competitive edge. It seems that the side-effects outweigh the pros of steroid use. Therefore, why is steroid use so common in professional sports? As long as restrictions and penalties are enforced, then this will limit the amount of athlete enhancement.