Classification of steroids

There are three groups of steroids: corticosteroids, estrogens and progestogens, and anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Nature of corticosteroids is similar to that of hormones produced in the adrenal cortex. Corticosteroids may be in form of creams, ointment, inhalation medications, etc. They are indicated in case of inflammations, allergy, dysfunctions of respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal and other systems.
Estrogens and progestogens are female sex hormones. These hormones promote developing female secondary characteristics. Birth control tablets contain these compounds.
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are medications which are also widely used in medicine. They are able to treat several types of breast cancer, testicular cancer, anemia, etc. These preparations are frequently recommended to get better and faster recovery after several surgeries. Burn victims, patients with HIV/AIDS administer anabolic-androgenic steroids in order to avoid muscle wasting. Certain steroids are also prescribed for treatment of osteoporosis. These drugs are also prescribed in case of infertility.
Furthermore, anabolic-androgenic steroids are used for athletic needs. These preparations can stimulate muscle growth and promote enhancing energy. That’s why a lot of athletes and bodybuilders take them for performance-enhancing effects. Several anabolic-androgenic steroids can also burn fat, making muscles hard.
Intake of anabolic-androgenic steroids for non-medical purposes is illegal under laws of certain countries. Those who manufacture, distribute, purchase and administer these drugs illegally may be sentenced to jail and/or fines. These drugs belong to illegal substances in certain countries because they may lead to various undesirable consequences. While several unwanted reactions are mild and disappear after discontinuation of usage, others are dangerous and even irreversible. Those that desire to obtain positive effects, applying steroids for clinical needs, should apply these preparations under recommendations of physicians.