Anabolic Steroids
Cortico-Steroids (medically approved)
These can be useful in treating many conditions, such as rashes, lupus, asthma and other inflammatory processes. But these drugs also carry a risk of serious side effectsCorticosteroids mimic the hormones that your body produces in your adrenal glands (located on top of your kidneys). When prescribed in higher doses, corticosteroids suppress inflammation. Corticosteroids also suppress your immune system, which can help control conditions in which your immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This can be beneficial as a short term therapy. Side effects vary by type and dosage and can include the following:
- Elevated pressure in the eyes (glaucoma)
- Fluid retention, causing swelling in your lower legs
- High blood pressure
- Problems with mood, memory, behavior and other psychological effects
- Weight gain, with fat deposits in your abdomen, face and the back of your neck
- High blood sugar, which can trigger or worsen diabetes
- Increased risk of infections
- Thinning bones (osteoporosis) and fractures
- Suppressed adrenal gland hormone production
- Thin skin, bruising and slower wound healing