Anabolic Steroid AbuseAnabolic steroids are synthetically produced variants of the natural male hormone testosterone. Both men and women produce testosterone in their bodies. Males are found in the testes and females in the ovaries and other tissues. The full name of this class of drugs is anabolic-androgenic steroids. Some of the most abused steroids include Deca-Durabolin, Durabolin, Equipoise and Winstrol. Deca-Durabolin is a widely used steroid that has very little androgenic properties, meaning it provides exceptional gains with unwanted side effects when used responsibly. Equipoise is a testosterone derivative, which exhibits strong anabolic and moderately androgenic properties. Finally, Winstrol is a synthetic anabolic steroid derived from dihydrotestosterone. Common names for anabolic steroids include Arnolds, Gym Candy, Pumpers, roids, Stackers, Weight Trainers, Balls and Bulls, and Juice. The two main effects of testosterone are an androgenic effect and an anabolic effect. The term "androgenic" refers to the physical changes a man undergoes during puberty as he develops into adulthood. The androgenic effects would also be felt in a woman. This is responsible for the majority of side effects associated with steroid use. The term anabolic refers to the promotion of anabolism, the actual building of tissue, primarily muscle, accomplished by the promotion of protein synthesis. Abuse of anabolic steroids differs from abuse of other substances because initial abuse of anabolic steroids is not driven by the immediate effect. the euphoria that accompanies most drugs of abuse, such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, but by the addicts' desire to change their appearance and p...... middle of paper ..... . form the liver. The tumors and cyst may burst, causing internal bleeding. Steroid use can also cause acne all over the skin, cysts, oily skin and hair. Infections from anabolic steroid abuse are very effective. Many drug users who inject anabolic steroids may use unsterile injection methods or share contaminated needles with others who also use steroids. Some steroid preparations are manufactured illegally under non-sterile conditions. These factors put abusers at risk of contracting life-threatening viral infections, such as HIV and hepatitis B and C. Steroid abusers may also develop endocarditis, a bacterial infection that causes life-threatening inflammation of the inner lining from the heart. . Bacterial infections can cause pain and abscess formation at injection sites..