Nature of steroids

There are three classes 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 products, etc. They are recommended to treat inflammations, allergic reactions, dysfunctions of respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal and other systems.
Estrogens and progestogens represent female sex hormones. These hormones promote developing female secondary characteristics. Birth control remedies contain these compounds.
Anabolic-androgenic steroids represent medications that are also widely used in medicine. They have capacity to cure certain types of breast cancer, cancer of testicles, anemia, etc. These preparations are often prescribed to receive better and faster recovery after some operations. Burn victims, persons with HIV/AIDS use anabolic-androgenic steroids in order to avoid muscle loss. Several steroids are also taken to cure osteoporosis. These products are also taken in case of infertility.
Moreover, anabolic-androgenic steroids are taken for athletic needs. These medications are able to create muscles and promote increasing energy. That’s why a lot of sportspeople and bodybuilders use them for performance-enhancing effects. Some anabolic-androgenic steroids have also ability to promote loosing fat, making muscles defined.
Usage of anabolic-androgenic steroids for non-therapeutic purposes is forbidden under laws of some countries. Those who manufacture, sell, purchase and use these medicines illegally may be sentenced to imprisonment and/or fines. These medicines belong to illegal preparations in several countries because they may lead to different adverse reactions. While several side reactions are insignificant and disappear after discontinuation of usage, others are dangerous and even irreversible. Those who desire to obtain positive effects, taking steroids for therapeutic purposes, should administer these medicines under indications of physicians.