Anabolic-androgenic steroids are synthetic substances related to testosterone. They differ from corticosteroids such as prednisone, which are prescribed for other conditions. Some anabolic steroids have legitimate prescription uses; nonmedical use for appearance or performance can be harmful.
Health effects and risks
Misuse can affect hormones, fertility, mood, cholesterol, blood pressure, liver, and heart health. Effects vary by person and product. People using prescribed steroids should follow their clinician’s plan and seek medical advice before changing or stopping treatment.
Testing and next steps
Drug screens vary by specimen and by the substances listed on a test’s panel. Check the instructions and panel before selecting a test; do not assume every product detects this substance. A home screen is preliminary. For more on specimen types, read Drug Testing Methods; for a preliminary positive result, read Unexpected or Preliminary Positive Results. The Substance Information hub lists the current staging test options.
Sources and support
See the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Commonly Abused Drugs chart for a general overview. For confidential U.S. treatment referrals, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Call 911 for a medical emergency.