Performance-Enhancing Drugs: Are They Legal?

Performance-Enhancing Drugs: Are They Legal? : There are a few different types of performance-enhancing drugs available on the market however not all of these are legal. In this article, we’ll explore which drugs are legal and which aren’t, as well as the consequences of taking illegal drugs…

When we think about performance-enhancing drugs, we often think of headlines regarding high-profile sports people being caught and penalised for using them. However, in recent years, these drugs have become much more widespread amongst avid gymgoers and even teenagers.

Although not all performance-enhancing drugs are illegal or have class A drug sentencing guidelines, many of these drugs can still have heavy consequences. Moreover, in the article, we’ll be exploring the legality of using performance-enhancing drugs as well as, the dangers involved.

What are Performance-Enhancing Drugs?

These are substances which are used to increase strength and stamina during sports and exercise meaning individuals are able to work out harder for longer. Athletes and bodybuilders will sometimes use these drugs to improve their performance in their chosen sport.

What are Some Types of Performance-Enhancing Drugs?

There are a number of legal and illegal performance-enhancing drugs on the market and, below, we’ll take a look at some of these:

Anabolic Steroids

Probably the most commonly known performance-enhancing drug, anabolic steroids use testosterone in order to increase muscle mass and improve athletic performance. Obtaining and using anabolic steroids is only permitted by law through a prescription from a medical professional in the UK. If caught buying or in possession of these illegal drugs, you may face a severe penalty such as a custodial sentence.

If a professional sportsperson is found to have used anabolic steroids, they are likely to be banned from competing professionally and may also face legal action in some instances. Over the years, a number of high-profile athletes have been the subject of steroid investigations, including UK champion boxer, Muhammad Ali. In many cases, a professional athlete is unable to regain their professional reputation after an accusation of using steroids.

In addition to this, anyone caught selling anabolic steroids in the UK may face a prison sentence of up to 14 years.

D-Bal by CrazyBulk

A perfectly legal performance-enhancing substance, D-Bal is known as the best alternative to the illegal Dianabol. A much safer, as well as legal, alternative, D-Bal contains L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, L-Leucine and whey protein and can be bought from health stores as well as online.

Human Growth Hormones

Somatotropin, known as the human growth hormone, is a substance used to reproduce and regenerate human cells to stimulate growth. When Somatotropin is prescribed by a doctor or used in a clinic, the drug is completely legal. However, if you were to buy this drug, you would be in breach of the law and could receive a hefty fine – or in worst cases – a prison sentence.

Steroids for Medical Use

While some types of steroids are commonly used as performance enhancers, these drugs are also invaluable for treating some medical conditions such as

Allergies
Asthma
Eczema and other skin-related diseases
Inflammatory bowel disease
Arthritis

Legal use of these drugs for medical reasons is strictly by prescription only

Why is it Illegal to Buy Some Performance-Enhancing Drugs?

There are a few dangers involved in the use of illegal performance-enhancing drugs and, these include:

Misuse

When prescribed, steroids are tightly monitored and regulated to ensure you receive a safe dosage. If you were to decide to self-medicate with steroids, you wouldn’t have the guidance of a medical professional and could therefore expose yourself to greater health risks. These risks could include abusing the drug or in worst cases, overdosing.

Side Effects

Even when taken legally, performance-enhancing drugs can still have some serious side effects. These effects can become magnified when the products are illegally obtained as you can’t be sure of the exact ingredients. Such side effects can include:

Hair loss for men and women
Facial hair growth for women
Reduced sperm count and / or infertility
Birth defects
Erectile dysfunction
Increased risk of prostate cancer
Swelling of the clitoris
Severe acne
Stunted growth in adolescents

Prolonged use of performance-enhancing drugs can also increase the risk of heart disease and other kinds of cancer.

There is also evidence to suggest that regular use of performance-enhancing drugs can lead to poor mental health. This can include conditions such as depression and anxiety and even more serious health issues in some cases.

Staying Healthy When Performing Your Best

When it comes to athletic ambitions, the use of performance-enhancing drugs can often do more harm than good in the long run due to some of the side effects. While using these drugs may provide short-term benefits, for example, improved performance during a sporting event, these are usually far outweighed by the harmful and long-term health effects.

If you feel that you have valid reasons for using steroids or other performance enhancers, always make sure that you consult your GP first. If you want to improve your sporting performance, it’s always best to do so through regular exercise and following a healthy diet.

Please be advised that this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained medical professional. Be sure to consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you’re seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. We are not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this site.