Abstract

Anabolic steroids, synthesized male sex hormones, are developed for the clinical usage. However, they are used by athletes for the purpose of enhancing athletic performance these days. Recent studies show the use of anabolic steroids has spread among various levels of athletes. The users believe that this drug would produce more muscle mass; therefore, they can gain speed and power. Athletes get anabolic steroids primarily through the black market. The athletes administer steroids with a much larger dosage than the dosage clinically used. They use steroids by several techniques, such as stacking and pyramiding. However, the anabolic effects of anabolic steroids in the human body have not yet been proven satisfactorily. On the other hand, the use of steroids causes severe health problems and creates the unfairness among athletes. To solve these problems, several approaches are being taken, such as discouraging the supply, drug education, and drug testing. However, the most important considerations for health professionals are to be familiar with the updated information and gain the trust of the athletes by good communication with them. Verf.-Referat