Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones that increase muscle. They are effective in building mass, but carry with them a number of possible side effects. They can be taken in tablet form, or injected. Steroid tablets can be particularly toxic for the liver, as it has to work hard to break them down. Complications of steroid use include abscesses and infections at the injection site, temporary shrinkage of the testicles, and they can also cause the infamous ‘roid rage – increased aggression and anger.

Because of their effects on the skin, severe acne can occur during steroid use, and also male pattern hair loss. The majority of high-dose steroids that bodybuilders take actually come from veterinary maufacturers and are designed for use in livestock. If you do decide to take steroids, please make sure that you know how to inject safely and correctly, and always use a sterile needle. Also remember that as with all illegal drugs, what you think you’re being sold may not actually be what you are getting. It is worth bearing in mind that although you can get bigger whilst using steroids, this isn’t necessarily maintained when you stop – the mass gains aren’t permanent.