What are the risks of using synthetic testosterone or steroids?

There are certain risks associated with the use of synthetic testosterone (such as testosterone replacement therapy) or steroid-based drugs (such as anabolic steroids), especially if the dosage is too high or if not prescribed by a doctor. This article will explore in detail the potential harm to health, including the physical, psychological and social aspects.

Physical health risks

The most immediate health risks of synthetic testosterone and steroids are associated with physical health. Here are some of the key risks:

Cardiovascular Problems

Synthetic testosterone and steroids increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, an enlarged heart, blood clots, and hardening of the arteries. Studies have shown that long-term use of these drugs can lead to higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol) and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL, “good” cholesterol), which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, these drugs can increase blood viscosity and make blood vessels more likely to block, further raising the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, do not use high doses of testosterone or anabolic steroids for a long time, and monitor the body’s indicators as you use them.

Liver Injury

Some types of oral steroids can damage the liver because they are metabolized in the liver. When used in high doses over a long period of time, it can lead to abnormal liver function and even liver damage, liver cancer and liver failure. In addition, steroid use may also lead to intrahepatic cholestasis, that is, blocked bile excretion, which may cause jaundice, ascites and other symptoms. Therefore, do not use high doses of oral steroids for a long time, and add liver protectants when necessary to avoid liver damage.

Endocrine system disorders

Exogenous testosterone or steroids can disturb the secretion mechanism of natural testosterone in the body, and long-term inhibition of autocrine testosterone may lead to testicular atrophy, reduced sperm count, infertility and other problems. This is because high doses of exogenous testosterone inhibit the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thereby inhibiting the production of testosterone and sperm by the testicles. Therefore, do not use high doses of exogenous testosterone or anabolic steroids for a long time, and add PCT to restore their own testosterone secretion, to avoid the serious side effects of long-term suppression of endogenous testosterone secretion.

Male breast development

Male breast development (known as “gynecomastia”) is one of the common side effects of the use of synthetic testosterone and steroids. This is because some of the testosterone in the body will convert into estrogen, so that estrogen levels in the body, which stimulates the growth of breast tissue, resulting in breast enlargement. Therefore, when using testosterone or steroids, we should take care to monitor estrogen levels and use antiestrogens (aromatase inhibitors) to prevent estrogen effects when needed, or SERMs (selective estrogen receptor modulators) to block estrogen effects.

Skin Problems

The use of steroids can stimulate the secretion of sebaceous glands, which can lead to acne, greasy skin and other problems. In severe cases, it can also lead to cystic acne, which can seriously affect the appearance of the skin on the face and back. In addition, steroids can also cause skin edema, appear bloated, and even form edematous obesity.

Mental health risks

Long-term use of testosterone and steroids can cause certain negative effects on mental health, especially at high doses and long-term use:

Mood fluctuation

Synthetic testosterone and steroids can cause “steroid anger,” in which users become irritable and emotionally unstable, showing irritability, impulsivity and even violent tendencies. Mood swings can have a serious impact on an individual’s daily life, work, and relationships.

Depression and anxiety

After stopping using synthetic testosterone and steroids, many users experience low mood, depression, and anxiety. This may be because the body’s natural testosterone levels can’t return to normal for a while, leading to an imbalance in hormone levels, which can lead to emotional problems.

Social risk

The abuse of steroids and synthetic testosterone is often accompanied by legal and social problems:

Legality Problem

In many countries, steroids are controlled drugs and can only be used legally with a doctor’s prescription. If you obtain and use steroids without permission, you may face legal liability.

Conclusion

While the use of synthetic testosterone and steroids has some efficacy in specific medical Settings (e.g., testosterone deficiency, muscular dystrophy, etc.), abuse of these drugs carries a range of health and social risks. These include cardiovascular disease, liver damage, endocrine disorders, psychological problems, and potential legal and social risks.

For safety, follow the advice or guidance of a professional and follow the appropriate dosage and cycle of use.