Contents
and Health
Performance Enhancing Drugs
Performance enhancing drugs, or PEDs, are drugs that are taken to improve athletic performance. This includes anabolic steroids, testosterone and other related supplements, as well as stimulants, diuretics, hormones, and growth hormones. PEDs are controversial, and their use can have both short- and long-term adverse effects on a person’s health, both physical and mental.
Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that mimic testosterone, the main male sex hormone. They are used to promote muscle growth and can enhance athletic performance. However, they can also have significant adverse side effects, including kidney injury, liver damage, high blood pressure, depression, and heart problems.
Comparison of Risk Factors
Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids are illegal without a prescription, and there are many potential physical and mental health risks associated with their use. These risks range from hair loss and decreased fertility to increased aggression and heart problems. Long-term use can be particularly dangerous, and individuals should use these drugs only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Other Performance Enhancing Drugs
Other performance enhancing drugs, such as testosterone and growth hormones, also have risks associated with their use. For example, testosterone can suppress the body’s own hormone production, which can lead to decreased libido and infertility. Growth hormones can cause joint pain and cortisol levels can increase dramatically. These drugs can also lead to higher blood pressure, higher cholesterol, and an increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
Conclusion
The use of performance enhancing drugs can have serious health ramifications and is not recommended for those who are not under the care of a healthcare professional. Anabolic steroids and other PEDs can potentially cause long-term physical and mental harm. Individuals considering taking performance enhancing drugs should take into consideration the potential side effects and the risks associated with the drugs before use.
