Are there any side effects to taking steroids?

Other side effects are specifically related to your sex and age. Since steroids are often taken by injections, there is also the risk of getting HIV or hepatitis infection from an unsterile needle or syringe. “There are a lot of side effects of steroids,” Mautner tells WebMD.

Is it against the law to use anabolic steroids?

Without a doctor’s prescription for a medical condition, it’s against the law to possess, sell, or distribute anabolic steroids. Legal prosecution can be a serious side effect of illicit steroid use. Under federal law, first-time simple possession of anabolic steroids carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $1,000 fine.

What happens to your body when you take anabolic steroids?

Both men and women who take anabolic steroids may: Get acne. Have an oily scalp and skin. Get yellowing of the skin (jaundice) Become bald. Have tendon rupture. Have heart attacks.

What’s the maximum penalty for trafficking in steroids?

For first-offense trafficking in steroids, the maximum penalty is five years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Second offenses double this penalty. In addition to federal penalties, state laws also prohibit illegal anabolic steroid use.

What to do about the side effects of steroids?

Consider tapering or reducing the strength and frequency of steroids when skin diseases start to improve. Also, consider switching to low-potency steroids if skin diseases are improving. Don’t forget to use moisturizer, such as the 2017 Good Housekeeping Seal winning – Herbal Rescue Balm . Pay close attention to common side effects listed above.

Are there any side effects from taking steroids by mouth?

Although this side effect is more commonly seen in taking steroids by mouth, topical steroids can occasionally cause this side effect as well(56, 57) Hypopigmentation is defined as a decrease in pigmentation or coloration of the skin (58).

Do you have to taper steroids if you have side effects?

Note that even if you are having a steroid side effect, however, steroids still must be tapered slowly. When used for less than two weeks, more rapid tapering of steroids is generally possible. Long-term steroids can suppress the protective role of your immune system and increase your risk of infection.

Are there any side effects to topical steroids for children?

Children have particularly sensitive skin compared to adults ( 19, 20 ). There is a greater chance for children to have side effects associated with steroid use. The British National Formulary warns that children especially susceptible to side effects when using topical steroids.