Steroids, though dangerous, do have redeeming qualities When used wisely, drugs have many legitimate uses
Monday, December 27, 2004
Revelations in the steroid scandal engulfing Major League Baseball have raised new questions about the medical effects of performance-enhancing drugs. Despite the well-documented risks of side effects from high doses of muscle-building hormones, doctors insist the drugs have legitimate uses -- and genuine benefits for athletes when used wisely.
Nobody defends cheaters.
At the same time, many doctors and pharmaceutical experts say it's important not to rush to judgment about the chemical agents some of the cheaters appear to be using, particularly testosterone and related hormones in the class of drugs known generally as anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Hormones are the messengers of the body, produced in the various glands of the endocrine system to regulate metabolism throughout the body. They are by nature potent molecules that may affect virtually every organ system one way or another. Testosterone, the main male hormone, is one of the main drivers of muscle growth, and has profound effects on mood and sexual function. Many of the steroids in use are synthetic relatives of the natural molecule, reshaped to get different effects -- or to thwart testing methods.
More information at: SFGATE
Nobody defends cheaters.
At the same time, many doctors and pharmaceutical experts say it's important not to rush to judgment about the chemical agents some of the cheaters appear to be using, particularly testosterone and related hormones in the class of drugs known generally as anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Hormones are the messengers of the body, produced in the various glands of the endocrine system to regulate metabolism throughout the body. They are by nature potent molecules that may affect virtually every organ system one way or another. Testosterone, the main male hormone, is one of the main drivers of muscle growth, and has profound effects on mood and sexual function. Many of the steroids in use are synthetic relatives of the natural molecule, reshaped to get different effects -- or to thwart testing methods.
More information at: SFGATE