Corticosteroids alone rarely cause stomach ulcers. The real risk comes from combining them with NSAIDs. Learn who actually needs protective medication and how to monitor for dangerous signs without unnecessary drugs.
Steroid Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Taking Them
When people talk about steroid side effects, harmful physical and mental changes caused by synthetic hormones that mimic natural steroids in the body. Also known as anabolic steroids or corticosteroids, they’re used for everything from muscle building to treating autoimmune diseases—but the risks aren’t talked about enough. Not all steroids are the same. Some are prescribed for inflammation, others are abused for performance gains. But whether you’re taking them legally or not, your body reacts in ways you might not expect.
Anabolic steroids, synthetic versions of testosterone used to build muscle and strength, can cause acne, hair loss, and shrinking testicles in men. Women might develop deeper voices, facial hair, and irregular periods. But the real danger? Your heart. Long-term use raises bad cholesterol, thickens heart walls, and can lead to heart attacks—even in young, otherwise healthy people. Then there’s corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone used for asthma, arthritis, or lupus. These don’t build muscle, but they can wreck your bones, spike blood sugar, and make you gain weight fast—especially around your face and belly. Both types can mess with your mood. People report rage, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Withdrawal isn’t easy either. Stopping suddenly can cause fatigue, joint pain, and a crash that feels like your body’s been drained.
What’s missing from most conversations is how these effects stack up over time. A few weeks on steroids might feel manageable. But months? Years? That’s when your liver, kidneys, and mental health start showing damage. And if you’re mixing them with other meds—like blood pressure drugs or antidepressants—you’re playing Russian roulette with your health. The posts below don’t sugarcoat it. They show real cases, real side effects, and real advice from people who’ve been through it. You’ll find what works, what doesn’t, and how to spot trouble before it’s too late.
Steroid-induced psychosis is a dangerous but treatable side effect of high-dose corticosteroids. Learn how to recognize early signs, rule out mimics, and manage it safely in an emergency with tapering and low-dose antipsychotics.