Abuse
Abuse of anabolic steroids differs from the abuse of other illicit substances because the initial use of anabolic steroids is not driven by the immediate euphoria that accompanies most drugs of abuse, such as cocaine, heroin and marijuana, but by the desire of the abuser to change their appearance and performance. These desires are characteristic of great importance to adolescents. These effects of steroids can boost confidence and strength leading the abuser to overlook the potential serious long-term damage that these substances can cause.
Addiction
An undetermined number of steroid abusers may become addicted to the drugs, as evidenced by their continued use despite negative consequences. In addition, steroid abusers typically spend large amounts of time and money obtaining the drug and practice highly structured and ritualistic patterns of use (See Stacking and Cycling) which can be another indication that they are addicted.
Individuals who abuse steroids can experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using such as mood swings, fatigue, restlessness, loss of appetite, insomnia, reduced sex drive and steroid cravings. The most dangerous withdrawal symptom is depression, which if left untreated have been known to last for a year or more after the abuser stops taking the drug.
