About This Article
Zoom Testing has provided drug testing products and guidance in the UK for over 20 years. This article explains anabolic steroids, their effects and risks, and the law in the UK.
Published: January 2014 | Last Updated: 28 September 2026 | By Anthony Cunningham
Steroids are drugs that can treat some medical conditions when they are used correctly, on prescription from a doctor. However, these drugs can also be misused when they are taken to build muscle or improve athletic performance. These drugs can also have dangerous side effects.
What Are Steroids?
Steroids are drugs that are designed to act like the body’s natural hormones, the ones that regulate and control how a human develops and functions. There are two types of steroids: anabolic steroids and corticosteroids.
Anabolic steroids are remarkably similar to the male sex hormone testosterone. Because these types of steroids can stimulate muscle growth and improve performance, they can also be misused.
People use anabolic steroids for various reasons. Some individuals are interested in building muscle. Others want to look more ‘manly’. Others seek improvement in their sporting performance, in events such as running and cycling.
Anabolic steroids can be obtained as tablets. They are also available as a liquid for injection.
Contents
- What are the key effects of steroids?
- What are the risks of taking steroids?
- Can you become addicted to anabolic steroids?
- Is the use of anabolic steroids legal?
What are the key effects of steroids?
Some of the main effects of anabolic steroids can include:
- Athletes may find that they can exercise harder and for longer.
- Can help faster recovery times when training hard.
- Can help to quickly build up muscle.
- Users may become irritable more easily. They may even become aggressive or violent.
- Mood swings can be quite dramatic.
- Unwanted changes in appearance can also be caused.
Anabolic steroids are prohibited at all times under anti-doping rules. An athlete who needs a prohibited medicine for a medical condition may need a Therapeutic Use Exemption.
What are the risks of taking steroids?
By taking anabolic steroids without medical supervision you can put your own body and health at risk. However, this is not the only danger. Because of the aggressive side-effects associated with the drug, you also risk hurting friends or family if the drug causes you to act in a violent manner towards them.
Anabolic steroids can also do this to you:
- For young people, steroids may impede normal development and growth.
- For men, erectile dysfunction, breast growth and other fertility problems have all been associated with steroid misuse.
- For women, shrinking breasts, a deeper voice, menstrual problems and acne are possible effects.
- Misuse can increase the risk of high blood pressure, liver problems and heart attack.
- Problems sleeping and problems controlling aggression.
- Feelings of paranoia.
Can you become addicted to anabolic steroids?
Yes. Psychological dependence can develop, leading users to continue taking the drug despite the known risks. Also, withdrawal symptoms can be quite pronounced, leaving a person feeling very lethargic and causing headaches and depression.
In addition to psychological dependence, there are also physical side effects associated with anabolic steroid misuse. These can include an increased risk of heart disease, liver damage, and kidney damage. In men, steroid misuse can result in reduced sperm count and shrinking of the testicles. Women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, facial hair growth, and a deeper voice.
Moreover, anabolic steroid misuse has been linked to a range of behavioural issues, including aggression, mood swings, and irritability. This can lead to problems in personal and professional relationships.
Some athletes use steroids for legitimate medical purposes, such as to treat muscle-wasting diseases or hormone imbalances. However, a prescription does not automatically permit their use under anti-doping rules.
Is the use of anabolic steroids legal?
In the UK, anabolic steroids are classified as Class C drugs. Possession for personal use is legal, but supplying them, including giving them to friends, is illegal and can carry up to 14 years in prison and an unlimited fine. Importing or exporting them for personal use by post or courier is also illegal; rules differ if you carry them in person.
About the Author
Anthony Cunningham, BA (Hons), MA, is a UK-based drug testing expert and editor with over 20 years’ experience running Zoom Testing, a trusted source for accurate drug testing kits and testing guidance. He creates clear, evidence-based articles using UK legislation, workplace compliance standards, and harm reduction best practices. Where possible, content is reviewed by testing specialists and compliance professionals to enhance accuracy and reliability, helping readers make informed testing decisions.
Health and Legal Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice. If you have concerns about steroid use or withdrawal, speak to your GP or another qualified healthcare professional. Anti-doping and controlled-drug rules should be checked with the relevant authority before making a decision.
