Anabolic steroid

Anabolic steroids are synthetic or modified steroids that activate androgen receptors and promote tissue growth, especially skeletal muscle. Many also produce masculinizing effects.

Androgen receptor: A nuclear hormone receptor activated by testosterone and related androgens that regulates gene expression. Anabolic steroids produce many of their effects by activating this receptor.
Anabolic steroid misuse: Use of anabolic steroids outside prescribed medical treatment or in ways that exceed it. Nonmedical use often involves high doses and combinations unlike clinical treatment.
Testosterone replacement therapy: Treatment that supplies testosterone to people with clinically confirmed testosterone deficiency. It uses an androgen for hormone replacement rather than supraphysiologic muscle enhancement.
Corticosteroid: A steroid hormone or drug that acts mainly through glucocorticoid or mineralocorticoid receptors. Corticosteroids primarily regulate inflammation and metabolism rather than androgen-driven tissue growth.
Protein synthesis: The cellular process of assembling proteins from amino acids according to genetic instructions. Greater muscle protein synthesis helps explain steroid-associated increases in muscle size.
Hypogonadism: A condition in which the gonads produce insufficient sex hormones or reproductive cells. Suppression of natural hormone production can persist after steroid use ends.
Delayed puberty: A later-than-expected onset of puberty, which can have several causes. Clinicians may use testosterone to induce pubertal development in selected cases.
Selective androgen receptor modulator: A compound designed to activate androgen receptors selectively in some tissues. SARMs are promoted as alternatives, but they remain distinct from anabolic steroids and carry risks.
Testosterone: A steroid hormone involved in reproductive development, sexual function, and tissue growth. It is the natural androgen that many anabolic steroids imitate or modify.
Steroid acne: Acne associated with exposure to corticosteroids or androgenic anabolic steroids. Increased androgen signaling can stimulate oil production and worsen acne.

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