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An Evidence-Based Guide to Anabolic Steroids
An Evidence-Based Guide to Anabolic Steroids
Age Disclaimer: This guide contains medically-reviewed information intended for educational purposes only and is restricted to readers aged 18 and over. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding anabolic steroids or related compounds.
Introduction
Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), are synthetic derivatives of testosterone used for a variety of medical and non-medical purposes. While these substances have clinical utility, their use outside prescribed guidelines poses significant health risks.
This guide covers FDA-approved uses, legal status, safer alternatives, and best practices for harm reduction.
FDA-Approved Medical Uses
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Cleveland Clinic:
| Condition | Steroid Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Delayed puberty (boys) | Testosterone Enanthate | Induce normal male puberty |
| Muscle loss (cachexia) | Oxandrolone | Promote weight gain in wasting conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS) |
| Hormone replacement therapy | Testosterone cypionate | Treat hypogonadism (low testosterone levels) |
| Anemia (rare cases) | Nandrolone decanoate | Stimulate red blood cell production |
| Breast cancer (in women) | Fluoxymesterone | Suppress estrogen in specific forms of breast cancer |
Note: All anabolic steroid use for medical purposes is tightly regulated and monitored by healthcare providers.
