Anabolic steroid: Difference between revisions

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'''Anabolic-androgenic steroids''' or AAS are a class of [[steroid]] [[hormone]]s that are derivatives of the male hormone, [[testosterone]]. AAS increase [[Protein biosynthesis|protein synthesis]] within [[muscle]] cells, which results in [[anabolism]] (growth) of [[muscle]] size. In addition to anabolic effects, AAS have [[androgen]]ic properties, including the development and maintenance of masculine characteristics.

Anabolic steroids were first discovered in the early 1930s and are now used widely in medicine to stimulate [[bone]] growth, [[appetite]], [[puberty]], and [[muscle growth]]. The most widespread medical uses of anabolic steroids are for chronic [[wasting]] conditions, such as [[cancer]] and [[AIDS]]. Anabolic steroids produce increases in protein synthesis, muscle mass, strength, appetite and bone growth. AHowever, aabolicAnabolic steroids can also produce side effects when administered in excessive doses : these include elevated [[cholesterol]] (increase in [[Low density lipoprotein|bad cholesterol]], decreased [[High density lipoprotein|good cholesterol]] levels), [[Acne vulgaris|acne]], elevated [[blood pressure]], [[hepatotoxicity|liver damage]], and dangerous changes in the structure of the [[left ventricle]] of the heart.

Anabolic steroids are controversial because of their use in competitive [[sports]] and their associated side effects. While serious health risks are produced by long-term use of anabolic steroids, public perception of some risks is exaggerated. Anabolic steroids are considered [[controlled substance]]s" in some countries, including the United States, Canada, The United Kingdom, Australia, Argentina and Brazil. The use of anabolic steroids is banned by all major sports bodies including the [[International Olympic Committee|IOC]], [[FIFA]] , [[UEFA]], the [[National Hockey League|NHL]], the [[Major League Baseball|MLB]], the [[National Basketball Association|NBA]], the [[European Athletic Association|EAA]] and the [[National Football League|NFL]].