Anabolic–androgenic steroid

Anabolic–androgenic steroids (AAS), also known simply as anabolic steroids, are a class of steroid hormones that includes the naturally occurring male sex hormone Testosterone as well as synthetic compounds. They are anabolic and increase protein within cells, especially in skeletal muscles, and also have varying degrees of androgenic and virilizing effects, including induction of the development and maintenance of masculine secondary sexual characteristics such as the growth of facial and body hair.

History

The discovery of AAS dates back to the 1930s when scientists were able to isolate and chemically characterize testosterone. The first synthetic derivatives of testosterone were introduced in the 1950s. These compounds were initially used for therapeutic purposes, including the treatment of hypogonadism and wasting disorders. However, by the 1970s, AAS were being widely used by bodybuilders and athletes for performance enhancement.

Mechanism of action

AAS work by binding to the androgen receptor in muscle cells. This binding triggers a cascade of events that leads to an increase in protein synthesis. This increased protein synthesis, in turn, leads to increased muscle mass and strength.

Health effects

While AAS can have beneficial effects such as increased muscle mass and strength, they also have a number of potential adverse effects. These include cardiovascular disease, liver damage, and psychiatric effects such as mood swings and aggression. In addition, AAS use can lead to hormonal imbalances and can have a negative impact on fertility.

Legal status

In many countries, including the United States, AAS are classified as controlled substances. This means that their use is restricted to certain medical conditions and they are not legally available without a prescription. However, AAS are often used illicitly by athletes and bodybuilders, and this has led to a number of high-profile doping scandals in professional sports.

See also

• Performance-enhancing substance
• Doping in sport
• Testosterone
• Androgen receptor