Anabolic steroids have the capacity to produce physical strength and pain killing effects. On discontinuation of these drug, withdrawal symptoms produce in the body which may be life threatening. See the withdrawal symptoms of anabolic steroids.
Officially, Anabolic steroids are known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). These are the drugs which imitate the effect of the male steroids testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. The term anabolic refers to the muscle-building properties. Legally, anabolic steroids are only available with the prescription of it. Sometimes, doctors prescribes anabolic steroids to treat the conditions in which testosterone levels are abnormally low, or in certain chronic conditions such as AIDS that are associated with loss of muscle mass. One should not discontinue taking these steroids suddenly. Withdrawal Symptoms are the abnormal physical or psychological features that take place due to the sudden discontinuation of a drug that has the capability of producing physical dependence.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Anabolic Steroid:
Common Symptoms:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (lead to fluid and electrolyte abnormalities)
- Abdominal pain
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Reduced libido
Serious problems related to withdrawal symptoms of anabolic steroids:
- Depression
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness or fainting
- Low blood sugar levels
- Menstrual changes in women
- Mental changes
- Elevated calcium levels in the body
- Decrease in gastrointestinal contractions leading to dilation of the intestine
In the body, the production of corticosteroids (steroid) is controlled by a “feedback mechanism,” involving the adrenal glands, the pituitary gland, and brain -the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis” (HPAA). But the constant administration of corticosteroids inhibits this mechanism, causing the HPAA to “hibernate.” Using large doses for a few days or smaller doses for more than two weeks, leads to a prolonged decrease in HPAA function. Steroid use cannot be stopped suddenly; tapering the drug gives the adrenal glands time to return to their normal patterns of secretion. It may take a period of time for things to get completely back to normal.
But, may not always completely prevent withdrawal symptoms; steroid withdrawal may involve many factors, including a true physiological dependence on corticosteroids. Withdrawal symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, decreased appetite, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain can imitate many other medical problems. From these symptoms, some may be life-threatening.
To recover from withdrawal symptoms, taking steroids at every other morning gives the body a better chance. The day when steroid is not taken, allows natural stimulation of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. So, alternate-day therapy is ideal, if possible, once the disease is under control. Steroid withdrawal symptom does not only affect the mind but the body as well. It is best to look for medical advice because depression can lead to suicidal behavior.
