Anabolic steroids are part of a class of drugs known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). These compounds are designed to mimic the effects of testosterone, promoting the growth of skeletal muscle (anabolic effects) and the development of male sexual characteristics (androgenic effects). While some anabolic steroids are used therapeutically to treat conditions like delayed puberty and muscle loss due to disease, they are frequently abused by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance performance and appearance.
