Side effects of steroids

Pro Research Analysisby

Searched over 200M research papers

Analyzed relevant papers

Side Effects of Steroids

Steroids, both anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and corticosteroids, are widely used for their therapeutic benefits. However, their use is often accompanied by a range of side effects that can impact various bodily systems. This article synthesizes the key findings from multiple research studies on the side effects of steroids.

Short-Term Side Effects of Steroids

Cosmetic and Mood Disturbances

Short-term use of steroids, particularly at supraphysiologic doses, can lead to several immediate side effects. These include cosmetic issues such as acne and weight gain, as well as mood disturbances like irritability and anxiety . Sleep disturbances and dyspepsia are also commonly reported .

Glucose Intolerance

Another significant short-term side effect is glucose intolerance, which can predispose individuals to diabetes . This is particularly concerning for patients who require steroids for chronic conditions.

Long-Term Side Effects of Steroids

Cardiovascular Risks

Long-term use of steroids, especially anabolic-androgenic steroids, is associated with severe cardiovascular risks. These include hypertension, dyslipidemia, and an increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiomyopathy 246. Studies have shown that prolonged steroid use can lead to a significant reduction in HDL-cholesterol and an increase in LDL-cholesterol, thereby elevating cardiovascular risk 27.

Reproductive System Effects

Steroid use can severely impact the reproductive system. In males, it can lead to reduced fertility, suppression of natural sex hormones, and gynecomastia 247. Females may experience masculinization effects such as deepening of the voice and increased body hair .

Musculoskeletal Issues

Prolonged steroid use can also affect the musculoskeletal system, leading to osteoporosis, osteonecrosis, and myopathy . These conditions can significantly impair mobility and quality of life.

Hepatic and Renal Toxicity

Steroids, particularly 17α-alkylated AAS, are hepatotoxic and can lead to liver conditions such as cholestasis, peliosis hepatis, and even hepatic carcinoma 58. Kidney damage, including cholemic nephrosis, is also a concern with long-term steroid use .

Psychological and Behavioral Effects

Aggression and Mood Swings

High doses of anabolic steroids are linked to severe psychological effects, including increased aggression, violent behavior, and mood swings . These psychogenic side effects can lead to significant social and legal issues.

Psychiatric Disorders

Steroid use can also provoke psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Withdrawal from steroids can exacerbate these conditions, leading to severe depression and suicidal tendencies 89.

Strategies to Mitigate Side Effects

Steroid-Sparing Agents

To minimize the adverse effects, the use of steroid-sparing agents is recommended. These agents can help reduce the required dose of steroids, thereby mitigating side effects .

Low Systemic Bioavailability Steroids

Employing steroids with low systemic bioavailability can also help in reducing side effects. These steroids are designed to act locally rather than systemically, thereby minimizing systemic exposure .

Avoidance and Alternative Therapies

Where possible, avoiding steroids altogether and opting for alternative therapies, including surgical options, can be beneficial . This approach is particularly relevant for chronic conditions where long-term steroid use is anticipated.

Conclusion

While steroids offer significant therapeutic benefits, their use is fraught with a range of side effects that can impact multiple bodily systems. Short-term effects include cosmetic and mood disturbances, while long-term use can lead to severe cardiovascular, reproductive, musculoskeletal, hepatic, renal, and psychological issues. Strategies such as using steroid-sparing agents, employing steroids with low systemic bioavailability, and considering alternative therapies can help mitigate these adverse effects.

Sources and full results

Most relevant research papers on this topic

How do you avoid and treat steroid side effects?

Steroid-related side effects can be managed by using steroid-sparing agents, low systemic bioavailability steroids, or avoiding steroids altogether through surgery.

2008·

5citations

·S. Travis

Side Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Abuse

High doses of anabolic androgenic steroids can lead to lower fertility and impaired lipid profile, increasing cardiovascular risk in male bodybuilders.

Observational StudyHighly Cited

2007·

115citations

·A. Bonetti et al.

Steroid Side Effects.

Steroid Side Effects Steroids, as we all are well aware of, are drugs that help bring about desired effects in the body, altering and at times reciprocating certain body functions, though temporarily. They generally have anabolic impact on the body and are thus termed as anabolic steroids, technically called anabolic ? androgen steroids. Their main function lies in increasing the synthesis of protein within cells, resulting in the buildup of cellular tissue (anabolism), particularly in he muscles. Therapeutically, they mimic the effects of the hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in the body. Anabolic steroids possess androgenic and virilizing properties, including the development and maintenance of masculine properties. As far as administering steroids by sportspersons is concerned, their usage is controversial mainly because of their adverse effects and also gaining triumph through unfair means. This is commonly referred to as ?doping?. The side effects of steroids may be numerous and ranging in severity. Depending upon the length of their use, these side effects may be irreversible and adverse, leading to jeopardy of health. Other factors affecting the frequency and severity of side effects are the type of drug, dosage, duration of use and individual sensitivity and response. 1. ANABOLIC EFFECTS (i) Enhanced protein synthesis (ii) Increased appetite (iii) Increased remodeling and growth of bone tissues (iv) Stimulation of muscle cell formation (v) Stimulation of bone marrow 2. VIRILIZING EFFECTS (i) Enlargement of the clitoris in females and that of penis in male children (ii) Enhanced growth of androgenic-sensitive hair (iii) Increased of vocal cord (iv) Deepening of voice (v) Increased libido (vi) Impaired production of sperm (vii) Suppression of natural sex hormones 3. SHORT TERM SIDE EFFECTS A veritable buffet of problems may be experienced by both men and women. Men may face problems such as:

Highly Cited

2019·

90citations

·Dara Grennan et al.

Adverse effects of anabolic steroids in athletes. A constant threat.

Anabolic steroids can cause serious and irreversible organ damage, including reduced fertility, gynecomastia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, blood clotting, jaundice, hepatic neoplasms, and tendon damage.

Highly Cited

2005·

336citations

·C. Maravelias et al.

Side effects of anabolic androgenic steroids: pathological findings and structure-activity relationships.

Anabolic steroids can cause life-threatening side effects, potentially fatal outcomes, and uncertain criminal liability, with structural characteristics often associated with specific side effects.

Literature Review

2010·

62citations

·A. Büttner et al.

Anabolic–androgenic steroids: How do they work and what are the risks?

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) work by increasing muscle mass and strength, but can cause side effects like acne, hypertension, and hepatotoxicity.

Literature ReviewHighly Cited

2022·

71citations

·P. Bond et al.

(282) CONSEQUENCES OF ANABOLIC-ANDROGENIC STEROID ABUSE IN MALES: RESULTS FROM A META-ANALYSIS STUDY

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) negatively affect testosterone production, impair sperm production, cause side effects, and worsen metabolic profile, with sexual dysfunctions being a potential unfavorable effect.

Meta-Analysis

2023·

0citations

·Vena Dr. Walter et al.

Doping with anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS): Adverse effects on non-reproductive organs and functions

AAS abuse can cause serious side effects on non-reproductive organs and functions, and physicians should be aware of these risks when treating athletes and bodybuilders.

Highly Cited

2015·

115citations

·E. Nieschlag et al.

Anabolic steroids and the mind

Anabolic steroids can cause severe psychogenic side effects, including aggressive and violent behavior, drug withdrawal, and psychiatric disorders, and may contribute to violent murders.

Highly Cited

1996·

90citations

·B. Corrigan

Steroids: Pharmacology, Difficulties and Practice Delivery Issues

Steroids have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, but side effects are common and can exacerbate preexisting conditions or present new medical conditions.

2022·

0citations

·Priyanka Vishwakarma et al.

Try another search

einstein postulates of relativity

black hole in our solar system

the theory of life

a real picture of a black hole

the standard model

strep contagious for how long