Anabolic Steroids – A Comprehensive Overview

Anabolic steroids, often shortened to anabolics, are synthetic derivatives of testosterone that promote muscle growth (hypertrophy) and enhance athletic performance. While they can be powerful tools for bodybuilders, athletes, and patients with certain medical conditions, their use is fraught with legal, health, and ethical complications.

1️⃣ What Are Anabolic Steroids?

Term	Definition
Anabolic	Refers to the muscle‑building (protein‑synthesis) effects.
Steroid	A class of organic compounds based on a four‑ring structure.
Synthetic	Manually engineered in laboratories, not naturally occurring.

How They Work

Bind to androgen receptors → increase protein synthesis in muscle cells.
Reduce recovery time by enhancing nitrogen retention.
Can also stimulate growth hormone release and reduce fat mass.

2️⃣ Common Types (and Popular Brands)

Steroid	Primary Effect	Typical Use	Example Brand
Testosterone	Muscle growth, libido boost	Replacement therapy or performance	Testosterone enanthate
Nandrolone Decanoate	Anabolic &amp