Steroids are natural or synthetic hormones that stimulate growth and accelerate weight gain. Anabolic steroids are laboratory made versions of the male sex hormone, testosterone. When naturally secreted from the pituitary gland, testosterone provides such secondary sex characteristics as a lowered voice and increased body and facial hair.

Anabolic agents were developed in the early 1950's in a search for a testosterone-like drug that would trigger general body growth without the strong masculinizing effects of the male hormone. They are prescribed medically to treat:

	anemia
	breast cancer
	osteoporosis
	some cases of dwarfism
	delayed puberty

Use of steroids should be medically supervised.

Most studies indicate that steroids have little positive effect on aerobic work capacity.

With regard to dose-response: most studies have not demonstrated greater positive effects with higher doses of steroids.

Recent investigations also point to a powerful psychological action of steroids. Users report surges in:

	self-esteem
	energy
	sex drive
	increased appetite
	increases aggression
	a lowered tolerance to pain

In addition, users may feel less able to control their emotions, particularly anger, and generally have a lowered tolerance of frustration and poor performance.

Steroids pose serious risks to both physical and psychological health. Immediate risks revolve around the steroids' effects as synthetic versions of testosterone. In women, this involves "masculinizing" reactions including:

	facial and body hair
	deepening of the voice
	shrinking breasts
	menstrual irregularities
	enlargement of the clitoris

In men, testosterone is converted to estradiol, a female hormone, often leading to:

	enlargement of the breasts
	decrease sperm production
	shrinking testicles
	baldness
	acne

Possible long term effects of steroids can include:

	impotence and sterility
	atrophy of the testes
	violent acne
	early baldness
	high blood pressure and increased risk of cardiovascular disease
	possible liver tumors and failure of liver function
	stunted growth and permanent short stature in children and teenagers
	mood changes (agitation and aggressiveness)

Since steroids depress natural body production of testosterone, ex-users may feel depressed and listless, and may experience decrease sex drive and energy. Steroids may produce psychological dependence in users, since the psychological boost and feelings of power are pleasurable and rewarding.

For more information, contact HealthWorks Peer Education Program at (814) 863-2500. Or stop by room 19/20 Ritenour between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Students at campuses other than University Park should consult with their Campus Health Office or Human Services Section of the local telephone directory.