sterydy

Steroids, or sterydy in Polish, are a broad class of organic compounds based on the steroid nucleus. In common usage, the term often refers to anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), synthetic derivatives of testosterone used to promote muscle growth, and corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medicines used for various conditions.

Anabolic steroids have legitimate medical uses such as treating delayed puberty, hormone disorders, and wasting (cachexia). Outside medicine, they are used illicitly to increase strength and mass. They can be taken orally or by injection, sometimes at doses well above therapeutic levels.

Corticosteroids mimic cortisol and are prescribed for asthma, allergies, autoimmune diseases, skin disorders, and transplant rejection prevention. Short courses are usually safe, but long-term or high-dose use can cause immune suppression, bone loss, weight gain, high blood pressure, and glucose intolerance.

Legal and sport contexts: Anabolic steroids are controlled substances in many countries; possession or sale without a prescription is often illegal. Many sports bodies ban AAS and conduct testing. Corticosteroids are regulated by prescription but widely used medically.

Risks of anabolic use include hormonal imbalance, infertility, gynecomastia, acne, liver and heart problems, mood changes, and dependency. In adolescents, use can disrupt growth and development.

Historically, steroids were identified in the 1930s–1940s and later developed for therapy. Public attention grew with doping scandals in the late 20th century, leading to tighter regulation and education on health risks.