Side effects of Steroids

• Increased risk of heart disease. Anabolic-androgenic steroids(AAS) used in combination with resistance exercise can increase the size of the left ventricle of your heart, as well as blood pressure. This may increase your risk of heart disease and related death .

• Can increase aggressive behavior. Steroid use has been associated with increased aggression and impulsivity in male teenagers and adults.
• Can affect body image. AAS use and dependence are classified as a body image disorder in the diagnostic manual for mental disorders.
• Can cause liver damage. AAS, specifically those taken orally, have been shown to increase your risk of liver dysfunction.
• May cause gynecomastia. Defined as swollen male breast tissue caused by a hormone imbalance, gynecomastia may occur when you stop taking AAS.
• Decreased production of testosterone. Steroid use is associated with hypogonadism, which is characterized by the shrinking and decreased function of the testes.
• Can cause infertility. Due to its potential to decrease sperm production, steroid use may cause infertility.
• May cause male pattern baldness. The androgenic effects of AAS may cause or worsen male pattern baldness. This effect may vary depending on the specific drug used.

Side effects for women

While the above side effects can occur in men and women alike, women should be aware of additional ones, including:

• deepening voice
• facial changes and hair growth
• enlarged clitoris
• irregular menstrual cycles
• decreased breast size
• infertility