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Are Steroids Addictive?

Are Steroids Addictive?

Like most drugs, steroids are addictive and cause people to form a delusional dependency on the chemical-filled injection. Steroids are taken in several ways, people will consume steroids orally, often as dissolvable tablets or liquids. If injecting steroids, the injection can be done through a muscle, the blood, or the spinal cord. Some individuals will insert steroids through the eye or apply an ointment, known as topical steroids. The drug version refers to two classifications - corticosteroids and anabolic steroids. Both types are used for different reasons and affect the mind and body.

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Corticosteroids vs. Anabolic Steroids

Corticosteroids are an anti-inflammatory medicine used for conditions such as asthma, atopic eczema, painful and inflamed joints, muscles and tendons, and lupus. Possible side effects include that bruising can quickly form, increased risks of infections, and high blood pressure. For the most part, this type of steroid is considered safe, even for pregnant women. However, present mental health issues or underlying physical conditions are circumstances that portray severe risks if the drug is ingested.

Anabolic steroids differ in that they are man-made hormones similar to androgen, the male sex hormone. Typically, people will take this form when lifting heavy weights in the gym when they desire to build more muscle. Doctors will give this to men as a medication to help with delayed puberty or to support hair growth. Since steroids are addictive, people experience emotional flares while taking this particular drug. Impaired judgment, delusions, and intense irritability or aggression may be triggered in the brain and cause an alteration in behavior. Symptoms of steroid use are similar to both variations of the drug but also depend on the person, the dose, the duration, and if they were prescribed.

What Causes Steroid Addiction?

A study was completed to test the damage substances such as steroids have on the brain. Researchers found factors such as psychological and physical dependence and pleasure.1 Overall, anabolic steroids ranked high for physical harm but did not show a significant percentage when it came to dependence.2 Other classifications were tested, but anabolic leads in popularity due to the ability of rapid muscle gain.

Most drugs give the impression that a euphoric sensation will be experienced; however, steroid users may undergo grief and guilt after stopping consumption. Users will often feel distraught as the muscle mass converts to fat after use while causing joint pains and spasms. So, why are steroids addictive? Steroid abuse happens since anabolic steroids increase testosterone, energy, and a great sense of power. Of course, the medical reasons matter, such as reducing stress, inflammation, and pain.

Effects of Steroids on Women

The reason why men typically are steroid users is mentioned, but what about steroid abuse from women? Well, the root of dependency seems similar since women and men undergo muscle dysphonia. While most women will appear lean, fit, and muscular, and men will look strong and big in muscle, with dysphonia, both genders will feel weak, fat, and vulnerable. In addition to dysphonia, women may notice their voice deepening, or they have more facial hair growth. Increased masculinity and missed menstrual periods are also not uncommon side effects women experience when misusing the drug. Steroids are addicting, and women may regret ever taking the medication in the first place, especially if they are presently facing body dysphonia thoughts.

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Milford Rehab for Steroids

People on steroids or struggling with substance abuse and addiction, in general, are not alone. Thanks to the Delaware addiction treatment, specialized programs and therapy are offered to help those battling dependency. Also, our drug rehab for pregnant women is highly successful and includes family counseling. Our experienced medical staff understands that everyone’s fight is different, but we admire that a person is willing to receive help and recover.

Our medically monitored detox in Delaware is available for patients to go through the withdrawal process, supervised by professionals safely. Many levels of care are provided as well as after treatment, and a relapse prevention plan is granted for those who wish to require more support and guidance to ensure long-term recovery. If you or a loved one is debating receiving proper treatment, do not hesitate to take action. Regain control over your life!

For more questions on our residential treatment program, contact us at 888-280-4763 and get started at Banyan Delaware today!


Sources:
1. NIH - Development of a rational scale to assess the harm of drugs of potential misuse
2. Help.org - Steroid Addiction, Abuse, and Symptoms

Related Reading:
Benefits of Using Telehealth for Addiction
Ways to Practice Self-Love in Addiction Recovery

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.