Some steroids are prescribed for medical reasons and can be easily obtained. However, even anabolic steroids—which doctors rarely prescribe—are easy to get a hold of. In fact, a shocking 46% of 12th grade students claim that steroids are fairly easy to find in high school circles. In short, the answer to how easy is it to abuse steroids ? is “incredibly.”

How Steroids Are Abused

Corticosteroids and anabolic steroids are abused differently.

Dermatologists prescribe topical corticosteroids, which come in a cream form, to help with various skin conditions. Unfortunately, they’re both physically and psychologically addictive. Those with a prescription may find themselves increasing the frequency of use on their own to try to cure a skin condition faster. As a result, the drug may not work like it’s supposed to. Doctors may then prescribe a higher dosage, resulting in a cycle of addiction.

Anabolic steroids are abused differently. The three main classifications of anabolic steroid abuse are stacking, pyramiding and cycling.

• Stacking – Many anabolic steroid users mix two or more different types of steroids, because they believe that they’ll work together to produce an even better result. This may include injectable steroids, pills and topicals.

• Pyramiding – This type of abuse is just what it sounds like. Users will slowly increase their steroid use over a period of time, and then taper off after they hit a peak.

• Cycling – Cycling is used with both stacking and pyramiding. Essentially, users combine stacking and pyramiding through one or more cycles of 6–12 weeks to make the anabolic steroids as efficient as possible.

Street Names for Steroids

Those who illegally sell or obtain anabolic steroids may call them by their street names rather than their proper names. Some of the most common street names for anabolic steroids include:

Many of these illegal steroids either come from Mexico, European countries or, surprisingly, veterinary clinics. Many veterinarians prescribe steroids for animals to combat various issues.

How Easy Is It to Abuse Steroids: Developing a Dependence

For many, quitting steroid use isn’t as simple as deciding not to use anymore. Anabolic steroid users, especially, can form both physical and psychological dependencies. Quitting suddenly may result in uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, insomnia, mood swings and restlessness.

Once a person has become physically dependent on steroids, they may become depressed when they quit. This can lead to intense cravings and eventually relapse to avoid feeling down all the time.

How to Stop Abusing Steroids

Now that you know the answer to, “How easy is it to abuse steroids?”, it’s time to answer the more important question: how can you quit abusing steroids? A professional detox and rehab program is the best way to get clean and take back your life. We have the resources to help you get on the path to wellness. Reach out today.