What is it?
Steroids are synthetic compounds related to the male sex hormone testosterone. They come in tablet or liquid forms.

How is it used?
Steroids are swallowed or often injected directly into muscles. They are often used illegally by body-builders, long-distance runners and other athletes who claim the steroids give them a competitive advantage or improve their physical appearance.

How does it affect you?
When used in combination with a program of muscle-building exercise and diet, steroids may contribute to increases in body weight and muscular strength. Steroid users can be affected by more than 70 side effects, including psychological as well as physical reactions, most seriously affecting the liver, cardiovascular and reproductive systems. Steroids can also produce aggressive behavior and interfere with bone growth in young adults.

© Information on drugs facts comes from a number of sources, primarily the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Partnership For A Drug-Free America.