Anabolic steroids: understand the risks

Separate medical use from non-medical use

Anabolic steroids are medicines with specific medical uses. Using them without medical supervision for physique or performance carries risks that a gym routine or a product seller cannot assess for you. They are different from creatine and from ordinary protein foods.

The NHS describes risks including heart attack or stroke, liver or kidney problems, hormonal and fertility effects, and changes in mood or behaviour. Sharing injection equipment also carries infection risks. Looking healthy or performing well does not rule out harm.

Do not rely on a claimed safe method

There is no evidence that the patterns commonly promoted as “cycling”, “stacking” or “pyramiding” remove the harms of anabolic steroid misuse. Advice from a seller or an online transformation is not a medical assessment. This page does not provide protocols, sourcing or drug combinations.

Get support for a concrete next step

If you are using anabolic steroids, or thinking about it, speak with a clinician or a local drug-support service. Be open about the products, other substances and symptoms involved. A photo of the label or a written list can make the conversation more useful. Withdrawal can involve serious physical or psychological symptoms, so ask for professional support when stopping.

For immediate danger, severe symptoms or thoughts of harming yourself, contact emergency services where you live. If you are supporting someone else, focus on listening and helping them access care rather than arguing about their appearance.

• Write down what you are taking or considering.
• Arrange a confidential clinical conversation.
• Ask about health assessment and support, including body-image concerns if relevant.