Guide To Understanding Anabolic Steroids

Uses

Doctors may prescribe anabolic steroids to treat some types of anemia. These medications also treat certain forms of breast cancer in females. In addition, doctors may consider anabolic steroids as a possible treatment for hereditary angioedema. This condition causes swelling of the face, throat, windpipe, and limbs. Anabolic steroids can assist patients in regaining muscle and weight after a prolonged illness, persistent infection, or severe injury. They may be prescribed in cases where a patient struggles to maintain a normal weight.

Stanozolol and oxymetholone are two of the anabolic steroids doctors in the United States may prescribe. These medicines are available as injections and as oral tablets. They should be used with caution in pediatric patients and elderly male patients. Anabolic steroids should not be taken during pregnancy, and it is not known if they are safe to use while breastfeeding. The dosage for injectable anabolic steroids is usually based on age. Patients should follow a diet high in both protein and calories during their treatment. This will increase their effectiveness. If necessary, a nutritionist can provide advice on appropriate meal planning while using this medication.

Side Effects

Both males and females have reported jaundice, bone pain, nausea, unusual bleeding, swelling of the feet and lower legs, and tongue soreness as side effects of anabolic steroids. Rarely, these medicines could produce abdominal pain, persistent headaches, hives, and loss of appetite. These effects are more likely with long-term use. Prolonged use may also lead to dark-colored urine, bloody vomit, sore throat, and black or light-colored stools. Patients have sometimes developed purple or red spots on the inside of the mouth or nose, and the medication could slow down normal bone growth.

For this reason, doctors should check the patient's height and take x-rays every six months. This will help them assess bone growth when anabolic steroids are used in pediatric patients. Liver issues, including tumors and peliosis hepatis, have occurred with high-dose treatment over a prolonged period. Anabolic steroids may increase blood sugar. Thus, diabetes patients should discuss this risk with their doctor. If misused, these drugs could trigger breast development, baldness, or reduced sperm count in men.