Short answer: Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of testosterone—the hormone that drives muscle growth and many male traits. Used clinically and, sometimes, for physique or performance, these compounds can accelerate results but also carry real risks. This guide explains how AAS work for men and women, what "anabolic" and "androgenic" mean, and smart safety considerations.
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are laboratory-made compounds that mimic testosterone. Your body makes testosterone in the testes (men), ovaries (women), and adrenal glands (both). Men naturally have higher levels, which partly explains easier muscle gain. AAS amplify testosterone's actions: building tissue (anabolic) and influencing male secondary sex characteristics (androgenic).
Early hopes of creating "purely anabolic" drugs didn't pan out. The same receptor action drives both effects in different tissues. Modern synthetics can reduce androgenic expression, but they can't remove it entirely—if a steroid builds muscle, some androgenic impact is possible.
During male puberty, a surge in testosterone deepens the voice, matures sex organs, and closes long-bone growth plates. AAS partially replicate this environment in adults, explaining their potency for strength and physique change.
Results depend on compound, dose, genetics, diet, training quality, and experience level. Women may benefit at much lower exposure but are more sensitive to androgenic change.
Early signs of virilization—voice deepening, facial hair, menstrual changes, clitoral enlargement—require immediate reassessment. Some effects can become permanent if exposure continues. Conservative dosing, medical oversight, and strict monitoring are essential.
Potential issues include acne, oily skin, hair loss (genetic-dependent), mood shifts, libido changes, water retention, blood lipid disturbances, liver strain with some oral agents, fertility suppression, and—in adolescents—premature growth-plate closure. Risk scales with dose and duration. For details, see our Steroids Side Effects Guide.
Regulations differ by country; many jurisdictions restrict non-prescription possession or importation. Most tested sports prohibit AAS. Always review local laws and your federation's rules.
AAS mimic testosterone's anabolic and androgenic actions. They can transform performance and physique for men and women—but the same biology that powers results also creates risk. Learn first, measure often, and prioritize health and legality.
They are synthetic versions of testosterone designed to increase muscle building (anabolic effects) and inevitably influence male traits (androgenic effects).
AAS are modified molecules that bind the same receptors as testosterone but vary in potency, metabolism, and side-effect profiles.
Not fully. The same receptor pathways drive both. Some compounds reduce androgenic expression, but none eliminate it.
Women are more sensitive to androgenic effects; conservative dosing and immediate action at early signs of virilization are critical.
Legality varies by country, and most tested sports ban them. Check local laws and federation rules before considering use.