Anabolic steroids mimic the male hormone testosterone. People use anabolic steroids to increase muscle mass. But steroids may have serious side effects.

Anabolic steroids can come as:

• tablets or capsules
• a liquid you inject
• powders
• gels
• patches

Any anabolic steroid use has risks for your health - even for a short time or at low doses. Starting anabolic steroids before age 21 can affect your growth or hormone development.