Corticosteroids, estrogens and anabolic-androgenic steroids

There are three groups of steroids: corticosteroids, estrogens and progestogens, and anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Nature of corticosteroids is similar to that of hormones produced in the adrenal cortex. Corticosteroids may be in form of creams, ointment, inhalation drugs, etc. They are taken for treatment of inflammations, allergy, problems of respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal and other systems.
Estrogens and progestogens are female sex hormones. These compounds induce developing female secondary features. Birth control remedies contain these compounds.
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are drugs that are also widely utilized in medicine. They can cure several types of breast cancer, cancer of testicles, anemia, etc. These drugs are frequently recommended to get better and faster recovery after several surgeries. Burn victims, persons with HIV/AIDS use anabolic-androgenic steroids in order to prevent muscle loss. Some steroids are also taken to cure osteoporosis. These remedies are also taken in case of infertility.
Moreover, anabolic-androgenic steroids are applied for athletic purposes. These medicines have capacity to stimulate muscle growth and increase endurance. That’s why numerous sportspeople and bodybuilders take them for performance-enhancing effects. Some anabolic-androgenic steroids are capable also to induce loosing fat, making muscles defined.
Usage of anabolic-androgenic steroids for non-clinical purposes is prohibited under laws of certain countries. Those that manufacture, distribute, buy and use these products illegally may be sentenced to prison and/or fines. These medications belong to illicit preparations in several countries because they may cause various negative results. While several negative consequences are insignificant and disappear after discontinuation of administration, others are dangerous and even irreversible. Those who want to acquire positive effects, using steroids for therapeutic purposes, should apply these medications under instructions of health care providers.