Anabolic steroids include testosterone, which is the primary male sex hormone, and artificially made hormones similar to testosterone. Some teens believe that if they use steroids, they will look better and perform better at sports. Most teens that use steroids are not aware of the bad effects these drugs may have on their bodies. Steroids effect the body in many different ways. Problems with the male reproductive system, such as a decreased sperm count.
Females start to produce male type features such as facial hair.
Growth in children may be stunted. Levels of the good cholesterol, HDL, may go down, and the bad cholesterol, LDL, may go up. Increased irritibility and aggressive behavior. Severe depression and suicidal behavior is sometimes seen with withdrawal. Anabolic steroids may be used to help certain diseases if taken as prescribed by a doctor.