What are Medical Steroids?

Steroids, which are fat-soluble, are chemicals that are made up of natural and synthetic organic compounds. A one hears of steroids, the first thing that comes to mind is its illegal use. More sportspersons and youngsters are now using steroids to get more strength and body muscles. However, it should be noted that steroids are not just muscle builders but are also administered for many diseases. These steroids that are administered for the various ailments are known as Medical steroids.

Unlike the steroids that are used for building muscles and for gaining strength, medical steroids are legal and are given in small doses.

Medical steroids are of two types -- anabolic steroids and corticosteroids. Anabolic steroids are got from male sex hormones such as testosterone and androgen. On the other hand, corticosteroids are man made versions of cortisone, which is a natural hormone that is secreted by adrenal cortex.

Anabolic steroids are known as protein builders that help in building muscle mass. These steroids help persons to gain weight in cases of weight loss due to some ailments. Anabolic steroids are also given for delayed male puberty. Anabolic steroids are also given to patients who have low levels of testosterone, which is related to mood, energy and sexual functions.

Corticosteroids are mainly used against inflammation. This steroid is used for the treatment like eczema, asthma, allergies, colitis, arthritis and kidney diseases, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, leukemia and other cancers, juvenile arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, polymyositis, behcet's disease, polymyalgia rheumatica, scleroderma, temporal arteritis and vasculitis.

The medical steroids can are administered as drugs or injections. Though medical steroids are used for many ailments, it comes with many risks. It is always better to use them carefully and also as per the prescription.