Steroids: An Overview

Anabolic steroids (also known as anabolic steroids) are hormones that affect protein synthesis in the body. A steroid is an active naturally occurring chemical with four carbon atoms arranged in a particular linear molecular structure. Steroids have two primary biological roles: as critical elements of cell membranes that change cell fluidity for the purpose of moving nutrients in and out of the cells; and as signal molecules to target and stimulate the action of other hormones. The classification of hormones into different classes (e.g., Androgens, Estrogens, Progesterone, and Sex hormones) reflects the fundamental way in which these compounds affect biological processes. Androgenic (or male sex hormones) anabolic (or female sex hormones) steroids include estrogens, androestrogens, and testosterone.

Steroids affect biological processes by modulating cellular metabolism, increasing transcription and replication, and enhancing immunity. In the case of immunity, steroids help reduce illness and shorten the duration of illness. For example, during an HIV infection, steroid injections reduce the amount of virus in the blood and increase the body’s natural ability to fight off the infection. Steroids also reduce the risk of blood clots after heart attack, reduce cholesterol levels, and enhance blood flow to reproductive organs.

When taking steroids, it is important that you discuss your options with your doctor. Your doctor can give you the appropriate treatment for your medical condition. Your doctor may recommend that you cease using steroids if you suffer from a debilitating medical condition or if you begin to exhibit serious side effects. Also, your doctor may recommend that you only take steroids under strict medical supervision. If you are at all unsure about the safety of a treatment, you should stop taking the steroids outlet and consult your doctor immediately.

Another important consideration when deciding to use steroids is the potential side effects associated with each dose. Most doctors recommend that their patients start with lower doses and gradually increase the dose until they achieve the recommended maximum daily dose. However, while some people have very severe side effects such as an increased risk of developing bone loss or increased risk of having organ failure, most people rarely suffer from these side effects. Talk with your doctor to determine how many tablets of the drug will be appropriate for your particular case.

Steroids are also frequently used to treat conditions that affect the kidneys, such as high blood pressure, enlarged prostate, and diabetes. High blood pressure can lead to a lack of oxygen in the blood, which can result in a decreased ability to process and absorb nutrients and minerals in the body. Some studies show that steroids can help to reduce the risk of kidney failure.

It is also important to note that steroids can have serious side effects, including excessive skin sensitivity and changes in sexual functions. If you intend to use steroids, it is critical to talk with your doctor. Discuss your possible side effects with him or her and do not use steroids, unless you are informed that they are safe for you to use. You can get information about side effects by speaking with your doctor, but the more you are educated about steroids before you begin taking them, the better off you will be in the long run.