Some take place internally and may not be evident until it is too late. Some are irreversible. Although derived from a male sex hormone, the drug can trigger a mechanism in the body that can actually shut down the healthy functioning of the male reproductive system. Because even small doses can irreversibly affect growth, steroids are rarely prescribed for children and young adults, and only for the severely ill. The Office of the Inspector General in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has gathered anecdotal evidence that preteens and teens taking steroids may be at risk for developing a dependence on these drugs and on other substances as well.
Anabolic steroids can halt growth prematurely in adolescents.
The Threat of AIDS People sometimes take injections of anabolic steroids to augment oral dosages, using large-gauge, reusable needles normally obtained through the black market. The Psychological Effects Scientists are just beginning to investigate the impact of anabolic steroids on the mind and behavior. The Harvard study also noted that anabolic steroids users may suffer from paranoid jealousy, extreme irritability, delusions, and impaired judgment stemming from feelings of invincibility. This document was provided by the National Institutes of Health .