Is testosterone a steroid? The technical answer to this question is yes.
But testosterone is not just like other illegal steroids some bodybuilders and athletes misuse to gain weight and enhance performance.
The body naturally produces the steroid hormone testosterone.
Its natural functions include enhancing bone density, producing sperm in the testes, and triggering the formation of lean muscle.
Unfortunately, misconceptions, rumors, and uncertainty have overshadowed the truth.
This article clears up or debunks misconceptions about testosterone.
Is testosterone a steroid
Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body.
Whereas an anabolic steroid is a synthetic substance that mimics the effects of testosterone.
So technically, testosterone is not a steroid, but steroid is man-made testosterone instead.
Although testosterone has a similar four-ring molecular structure just like steroids, they are not the same.
Testosterone is intended to boost secondary sexual characteristics in males.
On the other hand, steroids are synthetic derivatives of sex hormones, typically testosterone.
Fitness-loving people frequently misuse steroids expecting to gain muscle mass faster.
Due to the health hazards associated with them, they are prohibited.
Confused between testosterone and steroids? Read our article: A Closer Look at Testosterone vs Steroids: Effects on Muscle Growth to know more.
Steroids vs testosterone
Source: PixelshotAlthough testosterone is considered an anabolic steroid, it differs entirely from steroids.
The distinction is between their intended usage, legal standing, and possible health hazards.
Testosterone
In men, the testes naturally generate testosterone, which promotes the growth of masculine traits.
Men with low testosterone levels, or Hypogonadism, may consider Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to maintain normal levels of testosterone in their body.
The primary goal of TRT is to restore testosterone to a healthy level.
However, TRT is not advised for low testosterone that has developed with aging.
The FDA has only authorized treatment for those with clinical Hypogonadism (low testosterone levels due to medical condition).
Anabolic steroids
Athletes occasionally use anabolic steroids in an effort to enhance their performance or muscle strength.
Although some of the steroids contain testosterone, these can not be utilized in place of TRT to deliver testosterone in the body.
Anabolic steroids are frequently taken in considerably greater dosages with the primary goal of building muscle.
However, TRT has less testosterone than steroids or anabolic steroids.
It requires regular monitoring by a medical expert and seeks to restore testosterone levels to a ‘normal’ level.
The FDA does not approve excessive illegal use of steroids without a doctor’s prescription.
This behavior may lead to addiction and severe negative consequences.
These side effects include acne, vaginal dryness, changes in menstrual cycles, and smaller testicles.
It might also cause male pattern baldness, infertility, and heart diseases.
Is testosterone safe to use
Your testosterone levels tend to decline when your testes don’t produce enough natural testosterone.
It can lead to several side effects, including low libido, reduced muscle mass, and infertility.
In order to help treat these unfavorable symptoms, Testosterone Replacement Therapy is often prescribed to individuals with low testosterone.
However, excessive administration of testosterone in the body via TRT can lead to certain side effects such as acne, excessive facial hair growth, and weight gain.
If you have any doubts about whether testosterone therapy is the best option for you, discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your doctor.
Before suggesting testosterone therapy, your doctor will most likely test your testosterone levels twice.
Using testosterone therapy to treat low testosterone due to natural aging is not recommended.
Your doctor could propose natural methods to increase testosterone if there isn’t a medical disease causing your testosterone levels to fall.
These include decreasing weight and building muscle mass.
Conclusion
Most people wonder, “Is testosterone a steroid or not?”
Yes, testosterone is an anabolic steroid, but it is not the same as artificial steroids.
Athletes use artificial steroids to enhance their performance and build muscle mass.
In fact, testosterone is a natural steroid produced by the male’s testes.
The FDA approves Testosterone Replacement Therapy to boost libido and enhance muscle growth and bone density.
Meanwhile, the FDA and other regulatory authorities ban the illegal use of steroids, which can lead to severe side effects.
However, before considering TRT for boosting your testosterone levels, seeking a doctor’s advice is recommended.
Are you considering testosterone gel to increase your testosterone levels but confused about how to use it effectively? Read our article: How to Apply Testosterone Gel for Maximum Effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do gym guys use steroids?
Steroids are synthetic hormones that are used by gym people to build muscle and prevent muscle breakdown.
The illegal use of steroids among weight trainers is quite prevalent.
Is testosterone forbidden in athletics?
All instances of the use of testosterone and any other substance listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List under the Anabolic Agents section are illegal.
These also include other substances with a similar structure or similar biological effect.
Is testosterone good?
Testosterone can aid in boosting libido, muscular mass, and bone strength in men with low testosterone.
However, extremely high levels of testosterone can lead to side effects, such as acne, hair growth, weight gain, and infertility.
Is steroid and testosterone the same thing?
Yes, technically speaking, both steroids and testosterone are the same.
However, testosterone is a natural steroid produced by the testes of men.
Testosterone is approved by the FDA to be used in the form of TRT to boost testosterone levels in the body.
In contrast, the illegal use of steroids is prohibited as it can lead to severe side effects.
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