The Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids on Performance and its Adverse Side Effects in Athletes

Steroids have been used to enhance performance for years. Chemical modifications to exogenous steroids are designed to enhance physiological effects. Although the exact mechanism of action is unkown, changes in body composition, strength, hematology, endurance performance, neuromuscular function and muscle recovery have been noted. Despite performance benefits, numerous side-effects of anabolic androgenic steroids such as; increased sexual drive, occurrence of acne, increased body hair, aggressive behavior, fluid retention, elevated blood pressure (BP), sleeplessness, increased irritability, feelings of low libido, increased appetite, enhanced transpiration, increased feeling of well-being, depressive mood states, loss of head hair, and gynaecomastia have been reported.