Anabolic steroids, when taken, act as a hormone testosterone, in the body. They are used for medical reasons and even then there are risks. However, sometimes athletes take these drugs (off-label) to enable them to perform better in their specific sport. The scenario for this week: You have a male friend who is interested in competing in a triathlon. He has been training more frequently at the gym and his muscle mass seems to be increasing rapidly. You ask him about it and in a confidential disclosure he tells you that he's taking anabolic steroids. He tells you it's ok because even doctors prescribe these for patients when they need them. He realizes he may be taking a lot but since he's young he feels he'll be fine. You are in the healthcare field and understand the complications of these drugs. You try to discuss this with him providing him with the knowledge that he should have so that he has respect for the drugs and understands the problems they can cause. In your discussion this week, you will talk about what anabolic steroids do and why a doctor might prescribe them. Then discuss why an athlete might want to take them and what are the risks and side effects.