Anabolic Steroids and Other Appearance and Performance Enhancing Drugs (APEDs)

Highlights

  • Anabolic-androgenic steroids are the best-studied class of appearance and performance enhancing drugs (APEDs). APEDs are used to improve appearance by building muscle mass or to enhance athletic performance.
  • Although anabolic steroids and other APEDs may directly and indirectly have effects on a person’s mood, they do not typically produce a euphoric high. However, people who use these substances may develop a substance use disorder, defined as continued use despite adverse consequences.
  • Anabolic steroids can cause severe, long-lasting, and in some cases, irreversible damage. They can lead to early heart attacks, strokes, liver tumors, kidney failure, and psychiatric problems. In addition, stopping steroid use can cause depression, often leading to resumption of use.

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