IRRATIONAL USE OF ANABOLIC STEROIDS FOR PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This Final Undergraduate Project addresses the irrational use of anabolic steroids for physical development, highlighting the physiological, psychological, and social risks associated with this practice. The study is justified by the increasing prevalence of these substances among gym users and young individuals seeking aesthetic enhancement and physical performance without professional supervision. The main objective was to analyze the factors that lead to the misuse of anabolic steroids, their effects on the human body, and possible prevention and health education strategies. A narrative literature review was conducted, based on scientific articles published between 2018 and 2022, retrieved from national and international databases. The research showed that unsupervised use of anabolic steroids causes serious damage to cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, and endocrine systems, in addition to inducing behavioral and emotional changes. It was also observed that social and cultural contexts strongly influence this practice, with aesthetic pressure and social media influence as determining factors. It is concluded that addressing this problem requires integrated actions involving health education, regulatory enforcement, and multidisciplinary support, with the pharmacist playing a key role in guiding and raising public awareness about the rational use of hormonal substances.