The Hidden Dangers of Anabolic Steroids: Physical and Psychological Effects

An evidence-based look at how anabolic steroids impact health and wellbeing

Anabolic steroids continue to tempt those seeking rapid muscle growth and enhanced athletic performance. However, the temporary gains come with serious long-term consequences that many users don't fully understand until they experience them firsthand. This post examines the documented physical and psychological effects of anabolic steroid use, supported by testimonials from former users.

Physical Effects: The Body Under Siege

Cardiovascular System

Anabolic steroids place tremendous strain on the heart and blood vessels. Users frequently develop increased blood pressure, harmful cholesterol profiles (decreased HDL, increased LDL), and left ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement of the heart muscle). These changes significantly increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clots—even in young, otherwise healthy individuals.[1,2]

Liver Damage

The liver bears much of the burden of processing synthetic steroids, especially oral formulations. This can result in:

• Hepatotoxicity (direct liver damage)

• Peliosis hepatis (blood-filled cysts in the liver)

• Hepatocellular adenomas (benign tumors)

• Potential progression to liver cancer with extended use[3,4]

  
  

Hormonal Disruption

Perhaps the most insidious effects involve the body's delicate hormonal balance:

• Natural testosterone production becomes suppressed

• Testicular atrophy (shrinking) occurs in males

• Gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in males) is common

• Sperm production decreases, potentially causing infertility

• Women experience menstrual irregularities and masculinizing effects (facial hair, deepened voice, clitoral enlargement)[5,6]

  
  

Additional Physical Concerns

• Severe acne and oily skin

• Premature baldness in genetically predisposed individuals

• Increased risk of tendon and ligament injuries

• Stunted growth when used by adolescents

• Infection risks from non-sterile injection practices[7,8]

  
  

Psychological Effects: The Mind Altered

The impacts of anabolic steroids extend far beyond physical changes. Users frequently experience:

Mood Disturbances

"Roid rage" isn't just a stereotype. Many users experience dramatic mood swings, heightened aggression, irritability, and hostility that can damage relationships and lead to regrettable decisions.[9]

Psychiatric Effects

Clinical research has documented increased rates of:

• Depression (particularly during withdrawal)

• Anxiety

• Paranoia

• Manic episodes[10,11]

  
  

Dependency and Addiction

Despite not producing the same euphoric high as recreational drugs, anabolic steroids can create powerful psychological dependence. The fear of losing muscle gains and the withdrawal symptoms upon cessation can create a cycle of continued use despite negative consequences—the hallmark of addiction.[12]

Real Voices: Former Users Share Their Experiences

Mike, 29: "I started using when I hit a plateau in my training. Within months, I had severe acne across my back, chest and face—something I never struggled with before. But the worst part came when I stopped. My natural testosterone production was compromised, and two years later, I'm still dealing with hormonal issues and working with an endocrinologist to get back to normal."

James, 34: "The physical side effects were bad enough, but the mood swings were what really scared me. I became someone I didn't recognize—angry, suspicious, pushing away everyone who cared about me. My girlfriend said it was like living with a completely different person. The psychological dependence was actually harder to break than the physical aspects."

Ryan, 27: "I started using at 19, thinking it would help my athletic performance and career prospects. Instead, I developed arrhythmias and heart problems that my cardiologist says will follow me for life. No temporary gain in muscle size is worth permanent damage to your health."

Alex, 31: "Nobody warned me about the crash that comes after. The hormonal imbalances caused severe depression when I stopped cycling. I wasn't prepared for how psychologically devastating the adjustment period would be. If you're considering steroids, understand that the aftermath can be far worse than any side effects during use."

The Bottom Line

The scientific evidence and firsthand accounts paint a clear picture: anabolic steroids pose serious risks to both physical and mental health. The temporary aesthetic or performance gains come at a potentially permanent cost.

If you're considering steroid use, I strongly encourage you to consult with healthcare providers about healthier, sustainable approaches to meeting your fitness goals. And if you're currently using, speak with a medical professional about how to safely discontinue use while minimizing withdrawal effects.

Remember that many of the most impressive natural physiques were built through consistent training, proper nutrition, adequate recovery, and patience—ingredients that, unlike steroids, have no negative side effects.

References

1. Achar S, Rostamian A, Narayan SM. Cardiac and metabolic effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse on lipids, blood pressure, left ventricular dimensions, and rhythm. Am J Cardiol. 2010;106(6):893-901.

2. Baggish AL, Weiner RB, Kanayama G, et al. Cardiovascular toxicity of illicit anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Circulation. 2017;135(21):1991-2002.

3. Søe KL, Søe M, Gluud C. Liver pathology associated with the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids. Liver. 1992;12(2):73-79.

4. Schwingel PA, Cotrim HP, Salles BR, et al. Anabolic-androgenic steroids: a possible new risk factor of toxicant-associated fatty liver disease. Liver Int. 2011;31(3):348-353.

5. Rahnema CD, Lipshultz LI, Crosnoe LE, Kovac JR, Kim ED. Anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism: diagnosis and treatment. Fertil Steril. 2014;101(5):1271-1279.

6. Nieschlag E, Vorona E. Mechanisms in endocrinology: Medical consequences of doping with anabolic androgenic steroids: effects on reproductive functions. Eur J Endocrinol. 2015;173(2):R47-58.

7. Walker J, Adams B. Cutaneous manifestations of anabolic-androgenic steroid use in athletes. Int J Dermatol. 2009;48(10):1044-1048.

8. Kanayama G, DeLuca J, Meehan WP 3rd, et al. Ruptured tendons in anabolic-androgenic steroid users: A cross-sectional cohort study. Am J Sports Med. 2015;43(11):2638-2644.

9. Pope HG Jr, Kouri EM, Hudson JI. Effects of supraphysiologic doses of testosterone on mood and aggression in normal men: a randomized controlled trial. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2000;57(2):133-140.

10. Piacentino D, Kotzalidis GD, del Casale A, et al. Anabolic-androgenic steroid use and psychopathology in athletes. A systematic review. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2015;13(1):101-121.

11. Kanayama G, Hudson JI, Pope HG Jr. Long-term psychiatric and medical consequences of anabolic-androgenic steroid abuse: a looming public health concern? Drug Alcohol Depend. 2008;98(1-2):1-12.

12. Pope HG Jr, Wood RI, Rogol A, Nyberg F, Bowers L, Bhasin S. Adverse health consequences of performance-enhancing drugs: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. Endocr Rev. 2014;35(3):341-375.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical concerns.