Anabolic steroids were developed in the late 1930’s primarily to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone for normal growth, development and sexual functioning. It was during this time that scientists discovered that anabolic steroids could facilitate the growth of skeletal muscle in laboratory animals, which led to abuse of the compounds first by bodybuilders and weightlifters then by athletes in other sports.
By the 1990’s, steroid abuse had become so wide spread in athletic competitions that it became an influencing factor in the outcome of sporting events. Illicit steroids are often sold at gyms, competitions, and through mail order operations after being smuggled into this country. The proliferation of internet sites selling drugs without the requirement of a prescription has also fueled widespread use, especially among teenagers and young adults. Most illegal steroids in this country are smuggled in from countries without the ability to provide oversight and monitor these sales. Steroids are also illegally diverted from US pharmacies or synthesized in clandestine laboratories.
