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When it comes to anabolic steroids, it’s important to understand their legal status, along with the associated health risks that come as a result of their use. Anabolic steroids have been used by professional athletes and bodybuilders for decades, yet their legal status varies from country to country, with some countries completely outlawing anabolic steroids and others, like the United States for example, providing established legal regulations regarding the sale and use of anabolic steroids.
What are Anabolic Steroids?
Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that are related to the male hormone testosterone and are used to promote the growth of skeletal muscle. Anabolic steroids have been used by athletes and bodybuilders since the 1960s to boost their performance and increase muscle mass, though they were banned in many sports that test for drugs as far back as 1975.
Legal Status of Anabolic Steroids
The legal status of anabolic steroids varies significantly from country to country. In the United States, anabolic steroids are considered a Schedule III controlled substance, meaning they are regulated but can still be obtained without a prescription.
In the United Kingdom, where the possession and sale of anabolic steroids is illegal, it’s an offence to deal, or supply, another person with anabolic steroids. In Canada, anabolic steroids are classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance and must be prescribed by a doctor in order to be legal.
Health Concerns Associated with Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids can have a number of serious side effects, including liver damage, kidney damage, heart attacks, depression, gynecomastia (enlargement of male breasts), stunted growth in teenagers, decreased sperm counts, and infertility.
Conclusion
As a result of the health risks associated with anabolic steroids, it’s important to understand their legal status in the country you live in. In many countries, anabolic steroids are illegal and are only available with a doctor’s prescription, while in some countries they are available without prescription. Understanding the potential health hazards and legal implications that come with anabolic steroids is important in order to make an informed decision.
Keywords: Anabolic steroids, Legal status, Health risks, Schedule IV controlled Substance, Doctor’s prescription, Health Hazards
