Risk and Benefit of Steroids - Research Proposal Example

STEROIDS: RISK VS. BENEFIT Introduction When we here the word steroid we think of the sports and athletic events, as these chemicals are abused by many. We also hear this when we are talking about anti-inflammatory drugs. However, these are a group of chemicals that are present in the body. In general, steroid refers to a group of naturally occurring or synthetic fat-soluble organic compounds that has structure based on a steroid nucleus - a hydrogenated cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene ring system (Figure 1). This is a seventeen carbon atoms arranged in the form of four rings. These steroids are the basic units of several hormones, body constituents and drugs. While steroids produced in the body are essential for the normal functioning, it has its own risks and benefits when it is taken in the form of drugs. This paper discusses the risks and benefits of use of steroids. The naturally produced steroids include all the corticosteroid hormones i.e. glucocorticoids or mineralocorticoids produced in the adrenal cortex. The sex hormones such as testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen are steroids. Additionally, all vitamins of the Vitamin D group i.e. calciferol, the bile acids i.e. the ursodeoxycholic acid and analogues, cardiac aglycones, sterols like cholesterol are all grouped under steroids. There are also some additional steroids such as toad poison, saponins, some carcinogenic hydrocarbons, some corticosteroid drugs like prednisone are all steroids. In general, the scientific community is successful in producing these chemicals in the laboratories and these synthetic chemicals are analogues of many of the naturally occurring steroids. Both natural and synthetic steroids are used to treat several disorders and play a critical role in the normal functioning of the body (ClearLead Inc.com, 2008). In the natural form steroids have a range of uses in the human body. For instance, important functions such as controlling meiosis, carbohydrate metabolism, storage of fat, growth and development of muscles, immune function and nerve cell membrane chemistry are all dependent on steroids. Classification of Steroids Based on the site of synthesis of steroids, these can be classified into three main groups- gonadal compounds, glucocorticoids and mineralcorticoids. The gonadal steroids as the name suggests are mainly synthesized in the gonads, while the glucocorticoids such as the cortisol, cortisone and mineralcorticoids such as the aldosterone are synthesized in the adrenal cortex. Another mode of classification is the based on the impact of these chemicals on the body. For instance, steroids such as androgens, estrogens, progestogens, anabolics, and catabolics have specific function in the body. Androgens for example are involved with the development of muscles in the body and also the physical effect on the body, on the other hand anabolics promote growth. However, there are some exemptions such as the testosterones that are synthesized by both adrenal cortex as well as the testes and have both anabolic and androgenic properties. The following are some of the steroids with their structure and their basic functions in the body. Squalene: Squalene is the precursor in the formation of cholesterol. In fact it is an organic compound that is cyclized to form cholesterol (Figure 2). There are several reactions that take place during cyclization. One of the enzyme cyclase is also involved in the formation of lanosterol which is an intermediate compound. The lanosterol is downgraded, with the removal of three methyl groups and cholesterol is formed. This cyclization process is considered to be one of the most interesting and complex reactions in organic chemistry. Cholesterol: Steroids are all cholesterol derivatives (Figure 3). In fact cholesterol is essential for several body functions. For instance, cholesterol is hydroxylated and modified by a special enzyme called the cytochrome P-450 into Pregnenolone (Figure 4) which is a hormone secreted in the uterus controlling ovum implantation. Further it is the precursor for the androgens, estrogens, and glucocorticoids formation in the body (Zack, 2008). Testosterone: It is an androgenic steroid produced by the testis and the adrenal cortex. Testosterone is the only one steroid with a simpler structure (Figure 5). It is one of the most important hormones for the expression of male features (Zack, 2008). Drugs and Synthetic Steroids Basically, steroidal drugs are categorized into three forms - anabolic, androgenic and cortico steroids. Anabolic steroids are chemically derived from testosterone. Therefore, the main purpose of anabolic compounds is to cause androgenic side effects. This is especially true in the case of use for extended periods. For instance, the anabolic effects such as the growth or thickening of the skeletal muscles, bones, the larynx and vocal chords, a decrease in body fat etc. can be visible with the long term use of these steroids. While the Androgenic steroids are crucial for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, these were also used for certain treatments. For instance, medically these drugs were given to women with severe osteoporosis, however due to several side effects, it is not recommended. Medical science has also recommended these steroids for the treatment of the vascular manifestations of Beh'et's disease, for hereditary angioedema, to help in overcoming aplastic anemia and for the treatment of itching of chronic biliary obstruction. Cortico steroid is another et of major steroids that are a group of hormones that have a Cortisone-like action. In fact the researchers have found that these steroids can mimic the activity of cortisone. Cortisone in general has the role in regulating inflammation and help in the curing process. The synthetic corticosteroids are used in the treatment of many diseases such as asthma, eczema, allergies, arthritis, colitis and kidney disease. However, there are studies that point out that long term use of these corticosteroids are known to cause side effects. Anabolic steroids came into existence in the 30s and were used in the treatment of hypogonadism which is a condition in which the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone for normal growth in the males. As a result of this the development and sexual functioning would be hampered. Basically, the anabolic steroids are used to treat problems such as delayed puberty, impotence, and also wasting of the body caused by HIV-infection or other diseases. Later researchers also found that these compounds could help the growth of skeletal muscles and as a result of this research these compounds are commonly used by bodybuilders and weightlifters and athletes. Effects of Steroids Steroids are used both legally and illegally for various purposes. When it is used for medical purposes anabolic steroids may be used for increasing the protein anabolism in patient with acute renal failure; it can be of great help for children who are dwarf and have other growth disorders; people with osteoporosis take corticosteroid as it aid in the retention of nitrogen and calcium; and steroids can also be of great help to stimulate bone marrow function in hypoplastic anaemia. Often times illegally these drugs are abused and anabolic steroids have serious side effects. For instance, these steroids are used to increase strength, stamina, speed or body size by bodybuilders and athletes. Steroids give an instantaneous energy by decreasing the amount of time necessary for recovering between bouts of exercise. However, as a result of this the bodies natural abilities to produce these steroids reduces and thereby hampers the normal functioning. Besides, these hormone producing glands also become weak over a period of time. Excessive use of anabolic steroids also leads to addiction. Additionally there are some of the side effects that are irreversible. The hormonal system can be damaged. In case of men it can result in infertility, increase in breast size and shrinking of testicles. In case of women, the adverse effects may surface as excessive growth of body hair, male-pattern baldness, etc. Steroids can impact the musculoskeletal system by producing short stature and tendon rupture. The cardiovascular system can also get affected. Recent studies also have come out with links of steroid uses and cancer. With the increase in use of steroids there can be more oiliness in the facial skin and may result in acne and cysts formation. There are also instances of psychiatric problems such as mania that is linked with its use. In general, the abuse is among the athletes who take steroids to push their bodies past their original limits. Athletes always look to gain an advantage over their opponents and by taking steroids it is easily possible (ClearLead Inc.com, 2008). The number and variety of drugs use by athletes are rather alarming. Substances used as ergogenic aids are meant to primarily increase size, endurance and strength of the athletes. Drugs are illegally taken by athletes in an attempt to improve their performance. These drugs include beta-adrenoceptor blockers and beta-adrenoceptor agonists, calcium-channel blockers, diuretics, growth hormone and growth hormone stimulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, iron, theophylline and in some situations, vitamins. Another form of ergogenic aid appears in the form of "blood doping." Whether or not his procedure actually works is still a matter of debate (Lajis, N.D.). These substances used to boost athletic performance, increase strength and improve appearance present a serious health risk. Currently, anabolic steroids are the major substances that are increasing in use among teens, while other drugs have either leveled off or declined in use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System also reports that lifetime use of illegal steroids increased between 1991 and 2003 among students in grades 9 through 12. About 6.1% of students had taken steroid pills or injections without a doctor's prescription one or more times during their lifetime. This has increased from 3.1% in 1999 and 5% in 2001. Although males are more likely to have used illegal steroids without a prescription than females, 9th grade female use is the highest reported user group (7.3%). Although anabolic-androgenic steroids are forbidden substances, they are illegally imported or manufactured in secret labs. Many are available on the Internet. Veterinary steroids are another source - often cheaper and easier to obtain. A variety of other widely available substances, sold as dietary supplements, are used to enhance athletic performance. Anabolic steroid precursors, notably androstenedione, have gained increasing popularity as athletic enhancing supplements in recent years. These precursors, which include 4-androstenediol, norandrostenedione and norandrostenediol, currently are available without prescription and have powerful hormonal effects in men and women. Evidence exists that the effects are not unlike using anabolic androgenic steroids. Anabolic steroid precursors are being marketed as anabolic-equivalent "dietary supplements" that promise to increase muscle mass. According to FDA reports, ephedra's use has been associated with at least 100 deaths, and multiple adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. The effects of ephedra can be exacerbated by exercise and use of other stimulants such as caffeine. There are several side effects of these drugs. The use of anabolic steroids by adolescents is especially worrying. Young, developing bodies are likely more sensitive to the adverse health effects of steroids, some of which may be irreversible. Effects include acute acne, balding, and undesirable body changes such as the development of breasts (gynecomastia) and shrinking testicles in men, and masculinization in women (e.g., more body hair, a deeper voice, smaller breasts and fewer menstrual cycles). Use may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes by elevating blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In adolescents, whose bones are still growing, use may result in stunted growth. Oral steroids have been linked to liver disease, and evidence exists for increased risk of prostate, liver and kidney cancer. Steroids are often injected and these increase the risk of contracting serious infections such as hepatitis and HIV among those who share needles. Although long-term studies are scarce, it is thought that some harmful effects may not appear until many years after these substances have been abused. Evidence suggests that the abuse of steroids can increase aggressive behavior in males, cause mood swings and impair judgment. Studies have reported an association between steroid use and use of other substances, including heroin (The Hormone Foundation, 2005). 1950s Olympic saw competitors using steroids. Anabolic steroids have been used by athletes for more than two decades in the belief that they can increase body mass, muscle tissue, strength and aggressiveness. This agent, together with amphetamines, has probably been the subject of media attention. They have probably caused more death than any other drugs used in sports. In the 60s, a number of cyclists died following the ingestion of amphetamines during competition. The most serious adverse effects that can occur with this sort of drugs are often associated with heart failure. All these ergogenic aids, when taken in excessive amounts, are not without some serious implications to health. Some may even prove fatal especially when used in moderately high doses by the athletes (Bahrke and Yesalis, 2002). In conclusion, it can be said that steroids that are produced in the body are sufficient to give the body the natural strength and stamina. Illegal use of steroids can lead to serious health effects. Medicinal use of steroids calls for further research. The illegal selling of steroids over the counter and also elsewhere need to be checked. However further research can only bring about clarity in this subject and need to be emphasized. References Bahrke, M. S. and Yesalis, C.E. (2002) The Future of Performance-Enhancing Substances in Sport. The Physician And Sportsmedicine - Vol 30 - No. 11 - November 2002 Retrieved 22 November 2008, from http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/2002/11_02/guested.htm ClearLead Inc.com, (2008) Types of Steroids: Androgenic, Cortico, Anabolic - Side Effects of Steroids, Retrieved on 21 November 2008 from http://www.clearleadinc.com/site/steroids.html Lajis, R.H. (N.D.) The History Of Drug Abuse In Sports. Retrieved 22 November 2008 from http://www.prn2.usm.my/mainsite/bulletin/sun/1996/sun27.html The Hormone Foundation (2005) Program on Adolescent Hormone Abuse and Performance-Enhancing Drugs Retrieved 23 November 2008 from http://www.hormone.org/pdf/Horm_Abuse_Fact_Sheet.pdf Zack, (2008) Chemistry and Structure of Anabolic and Androgenic Steroids Retrieved on 22 November 2008 from http://www.muscletalk.co.uk/article-steroid-chemistry.aspx Read More