When using injectable steroids (anabolic-androgenic steroids/performance and image-enhancing drugs), a harm reduction approach emphasizes using new, sterile equipment every time to prevent infections and seeking regular medical supervision to monitor for serious side effects

Cleaning your injecting site correctly helps to prevent infections. Always wash your hands with soap and water before you inject

It is crucial to be aware of these risks before considering the use of injectable steroids. If you are using or considering using injectable steroids, it is highly recommended to seek guidance from a healthcare professional who can discuss the potential health implications and provide harm reduction advice

General Health and Monitoring

Be Aware of Mental Health: Steroid use can have psychological side effects. If you experience depression, anxiety, or aggressive behavior, seek medical attention

Consult a Healthcare Provider: Discuss your steroid use with a doctor or nurse practitioner. Open and honest communication allows them to monitor your health, perform necessary tests (e.g., blood pressure, liver and kidney function, cholesterol, hormone levels), and help manage side effects.

Get Regular Checkups: Schedule health checks before, during, and after a cycle to identify emerging health problems early.

Optimize Lifestyle: Steroids alone do not lead to increased muscle mass. A well-planned, balanced diet, proper training, and adequate rest/sleep are crucial for well-being and managing outcomes.

Manage Dosage and Cycles: Start with the lowest effective dose and the shortest possible cycle. Prolonged high doses increase health risks. Take regular and sufficiently long breaks (at least as much time off as time on) to allow your body’s natural hormone production to recover.

Do Not Stop Abruptly: If you have been using steroids for a while, stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including severe depression. Consult a doctor for a safe tapering plan.

Injectable steroids can have serious health risks, including: 

Cardiovascular problems: Increased blood pressure, cholesterol changes, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Liver damage: Oral steroids are more commonly associated with liver problems, but injectables can also pose a risk.

Hormonal imbalances: Suppression of natural hormone production, leading to infertility, testicular atrophy in men, and menstrual irregularities in women.

Psychological effects: Mood swings, aggression (“roid rage”), depression, and anxiety.

Infections: Risk of bacterial infections at injection sites, which can lead to abscesses and cellulitis. Sharing needles or using unsterile equipment significantly increases the risk of blood-borne infections like HIV and hepatitis B and C.

Skin problems: Acne, cysts, and oily skin.

Musculoskeletal issues: Tendon injuries and growth stunting in adolescents