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Definition of Anabolic Steroid

By Paul Rogers, About.com

Updated March 23, 2009

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Definition: Anabolic steroids are are a group of natural and synthetic steroid hormones that promote muscle growth and strength. Testosterone is a natural anabolic steroid. Both synthetic and natural steroids have been used in sport, particularly bodybuilding, to enhance performance. They are usually injected but oral forms are available.
Examples:
The use of anabolic steroids as a performance aid is banned in most sports. Some examples of synthetic steroids are nandrolone, stanozolol, oxymetholone, fluoxymesterone and trenbolone. The overuse of steroids can lead to significant health problems.
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