For the past few years, it's been all over the news - stories about athletes, steroids, and body image. In 1998, there was plenty of talk about home-run king Mark McGwire and his controversial use of androstenedione (which he has since stopped using). Professional wrestlers are much admired by kids and teens for their bulked-up appearance and strength. Female athletes are becoming more visible role models for teen girls, who are more aware than ever of a "buffed" muscular body type.

Unfortunately, many professional athletes use various forms of anabolic steroids (illegally, in some sports) and admit that they believe they are bigger and stronger, and perform better, when they do. This undoubtedly influences many teen boys and girls, who think that they too will be bigger, better athletes if they use supplements and steroids. Recent studies indicate that as many as 5% of teen males and 2.5% of teen females are using some form of anabolic or androgenic steroids in the United States.

As a parent, you're probably concerned about the increasing use of steroids by young athletes and you may even be concerned about your own child's health. What do you need to know about steroids and how can you talk to your child about them?

What Are Steroids?

Drugs commonly referred to as "steroids" are classified as anabolic, androgenic, and corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, such as cortisone, are drugs used to control inflammation, and are not the steroids that build muscle and receive so much media attention. Rather, it is the anabolic steroids that are used by athletes and bodybuilders to bulk up and improve athletic performance.

Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones that cause the body to produce muscle and prevent muscle breakdown. (The word "anabolic" is derived from a Greek word that means to "build up.") Some athletes take steroids in the hopes that they will improve their ability to run faster, hit farther, lift heavier weights, jump higher, or have more endurance. You should be aware that anabolic steroids are a drug like any other. In the United States, it is against the law to use anabolic steroids without a prescription.

Androstenedione, or "andro," is a weaker anabolic androgenic steroid, and, like other anabolic steroids, it is taken by athletes who want to build muscle. It has been suggested in some recent studies that if andro is taken in very large daily doses, it can significantly increase levels of testosterone and muscle proteins that would be extremely harmful to every body system.

Updated and reviewed by: Kim Rutherford, MD
Date reviewed: February 2002
Originally reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD