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Introduction:
The male hormone testosterone, a steroid, is repsonsible for
the build up of muscles in men. Since this is a well known fact,
athletes try to take extra testoserone or other similar substances
which will presumably hence this effect. Testosterone can not
be taken orally, but must be injected; and has several other
undesirable side effects.
See also Sex Homones.
Testosterone - Chime
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Anabolic steroid use can lead to a number of dangerous side
effects including, lowered levels of high-density lipoprotein
cholesterol, which benefits the heart, and lowered levels of
harmful low-density lipoprotein; stimulation of prostate tumors;
clotting disorders, and liver problems. Psychologically, anabolic
steroids can make a person more aggressive. Cosmetic changes
may include baldness, increased body hair, acne, and breast growth
in men.
For these reasons, anabolic steroids which are synthetic derivatives
of the naturally occurring male hormone, testosterone, have been
developed. Substances that mimic the male sex hormones known
as androgens. There are more than 100 different anabolic steroids
which vary in structure, duration of action, relative effects
and toxicities.
Steroids require prescriptions for medical use. However due
to the illegal distribution from US pharmacies, smuggling from
other countries, and synthesis in US laboratories, anabolic steroids
can be easily obtained for abuse.
Another way to increase testosterone concentration is to use
a prohormones which the body converts to testosterone. One such
prohormone is 4-androstenedione, also known as "andro".
Androstenedione was first developed in the 1970's by East German
scientists to try to enhance their athletes' Olympic performances.
These prohormones are legally available and do not have the same
side effects as the anabolic steroids.
Anabolic steroids and andros are banned in the Olympics, professional
football, and college athelitics. Mark McGwire has used andro,
which is allowed in baseball.
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