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Anabolic Steroids

By , About.com Guide

Updated June 19, 2009

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Definition: Anabolic steroids are derivatives of the male sex hormone, testosterone. They're used in the medical world to help rebuild tissues that have become weak because of serious injury or illness. Some athletes use steroids illegally to improve performance and muscle mass, but the use of steroids in sports is illegal and there can be some serious side effects.

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