In addition, the improvements made with steroids usually disappear when their use is discontinued. Growth hormone Growth hormone is taken by athletes who believe that it will build muscle and strength the way anabolic steroids do, but without the dangerous side effects. They are wrong. Although very little research has been done on its effects on athletes, it seems that growth hormone does not result in the kind of muscle growth seen with steroid use and it does not improve athletic performance, strength or endurance. Further, the side effects can be severe.
Large quantities taken during the development stage can impair normal growth and hormonal balance.
It is a banned substance for most athletic competitions. He is Orthopedic Consultant to the Baltimore Orioles and other athletic teams.