Steroids are commonly used to treat various conditions such as asthma, arthritis, and inflammation. In many cases, they are known to be lifesavers. Divided into two categories – Corticosteroids and Anabolic-Androgenic steroids, the latter in particular is known for having a bad rap over the years due to their abuse by sportsmen and bodybuilders.

‘Roids’, ‘Juice’, ‘Stackers’ or ‘Gear’ are some common nicknames for Anabolic steroids, which are often used for muscle-building (“beefing up”) and to increase male sex characteristics. Due to their endurance-increasing and performance-boosting powers, Anabolic steroids are widely abused. The rampant use of these performance-enhancing drugs is often traced to peer pressure, influence by popular athletes and the lure of landing athletic scholarships.

However, Anabolic steroids also have several side-effects that show the ugly side of the drug, especially because these are taken in extremely high doses. They can cause both short-term and long-term side-effects, which adversely affect the regular abusers.

Learn more about Anabolic steroids abuse in high school and college athletes by reading through our infographic, which attempts to answer some of the most common questions regarding steroid abuse.