These compounds are related to the male hormone testosterone. They are referred to as the anabolic steroids because they cause the formation of new proteins. As we stated before, they are often abused by athletes trying to increase strength and muscle mass. Their use in canine medicine, while infrequent, is related to these and similar properties.
Anabolic steroids come in liquid forms for injection and tablets for oral administration.
Animals that have been sick for a long time or who have been through severe, debilitating injuries often have generalized weakness and atrophied muscles. In some, this has progressed to the point where the animals can no longer walk or even stand. Their bodies are just too run down and, without some outside stimulation, they simply may give up the will to live. Anabolic steroids are sometimes useful in these situations. The therapy may take several weeks.