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Comprehensive Overview of Injectable Steroid Varieties

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Injectable steroids are primarily divided into two main categories based on their function and medical use: corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory) and anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) (muscle-building)

Injectable Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are synthetic analogues of natural steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex and are used to treat inflammation and suppress the immune system in conditions like arthritis, asthma, and various musculoskeletal disorders. They are classified based on their solubility, which impacts their duration of action and administration safety

Common injectable varieties include:

Steroid Name Brand Names (Examples)Solubility PropertyTypical Use & Duration
MethylprednisoloneDepo-Medrol®Particulate (low solubility)Longer duration of action due to slow absorption from the injection site; used for joint and soft tissue injections.
TriamcinoloneKenalog®, Aristospan®Particulate (low solubility)Similar to methylprednisolone, with a prolonged effect.
BetamethasoneCelestone Soluspan®Particulate (low solubility)Long-acting with potent anti-inflammatory effects.
DexamethasoneDexamethasone IntensolNon-particulate (high solubility)Shorter duration of action; generally preferred for certain sensitive areas (e.g., axial spine injections) due to lower risk of blood vessel occlusion.
HydrocortisoneCortefParticulateUsed for both local injections and systemic conditions, with a shorter half-life than other potent options.

Key Considerations for Corticosteroids:

  • Particulate vs. Non-Particulate: Particulate preparations create a “depot” effect, leading to a longer duration of benefit but carrying a potential risk of complications if injected into specific vascular areas, such as the spine.
  • Administration: Injections can be intra-articular (into a joint), periarticular (around a joint), or into soft tissues like bursa or tendon sheaths. 

Injectable Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS) 

Anabolic-androgenic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone, primarily abused for their muscle-building and strength-increasing properties in high, non-therapeutic dosages. Medical use is highly restricted (e.g., treating hypogonadism or delayed puberty). 

Common injectable varieties include:

  • Testosterone and its esters (e.g., testosterone cypionate, testosterone enanthate, testosterone propionate).
  • Nandrolone (as the decanoate ester, e.g., Deca-Durabolin).
  • Boldenone and trenbolone (primarily for veterinary use but abused by bodybuilders). 

Key Considerations for AAS:

  • Abuse Potential: AAS use for non-medical reasons is widespread in certain populations (e.g., bodybuilding) and is associated with significant side effects including cardiovascular issues, liver toxicity, and hormonal imbalances.
  • Regulation: These are controlled substances in many countries and their non-prescribed use is illegal. 

It is important to differentiate between corticosteroids and anabolic steroids, as they have different mechanisms, uses, and side effect profiles. Medical information regarding steroid injections should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. 

Recommended Dosages for Safe Steroid Use

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