Intake of steroids for treatment of diseases and for performance-enhancing effects

There are three groups of steroids: corticosteroids, estrogens and progestogens, and anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Essence of corticosteroids is similar to that of hormones secreted in the adrenal cortex. Corticosteroids may be in form of creams, ointment, inhalation medications, etc. They are indicated in case of inflammations, allergy, dysfunctions of respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal and other systems.
Estrogens and progestogens are female sex hormones. These hormones induce developing female secondary features. Birth control tablets contain these substances.
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are preparations which are also widely applied in medicine. They are able to treat certain types of breast cancer, cancer of testicles, anemia, etc. These products are often prescribed to get better and faster recovery after several operations. Burn victims, individuals with HIV/AIDS utilize anabolic-androgenic steroids in order to prevent muscle loss. Several steroids are also administered to treat osteoporosis. These preparations are also indicated for treatment of infertility.
Furthermore, anabolic-androgenic steroids are administered for athletic purposes. These medicines have ability to build muscles and induce increasing energy. That’s why a lot of sportspeople and bodybuilders apply them for performance-enhancing effects. Some anabolic-androgenic steroids are able also to promote loosing fat, making muscles defined.
Application of anabolic-androgenic steroids for non-therapeutic purposes is illegal under laws of some countries. Those who manufacture, distribute, purchase and use these medications illegally may be sentenced to imprisonment and/or fines. These products belong to illegal substances in certain countries because they may cause different negative results. While several side reactions are insignificant and disappear after discontinuation of usage, others are serious and even irreversible. Those who desire to get positive effects, applying steroids for therapeutic purposes, should use these medications under instructions of doctors.