Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Pamela, Oak Harbor, Washington — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:55:09 GMT

OMG! I knew about the acne but...damn! Poor guy. Thats a terrible way to learn a lesson, the hard way. Hope others will read this and learn from his mistake.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

KATHIE, CANTON, GEORGIA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:13:54 GMT

I ALSO THINK STEROID USE BY ONE OR BOTH PARENTS; BODY BUILDING OR MEDICATION; IS ONE CAUSE OF MANY BIRTH DEFECTS: EMOTIONAL, MENTAL AND PHYSICAL; IN CHILDREN

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

sarah wildomar,ca — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:32:18 GMT

wow, too bad, this is all from vanity. how ironic...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mel — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:48:12 GMT

Hopefully while the docs were treating his acne, they sent him to the headshrinker to get his body image issues adjusted.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Kat, Canada — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:50:21 GMT

Wow. I would hope this would be a powerful enough story to keep at least a few people from using Steroids. If you can´t get there naturally, maybe you should either accept what you were born with, or change professions. Yuck.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

H ANDERSON LIMA , OH — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:00:17 GMT

THAT IS JUST PLAIN NASTY !!! IM SURE THAT HE KNEW THAT THERE WERE RISKS INVOLVED WITH THE USE OF STEROIDS.. ALOT OF PEOPLE DO NO MATTER HOW YOUNG OR OLD ...ITS NOT GONNA STOP...PEOPLE JUST GET DESPERATE FOR QUICK RESULTS...BOTTOM LINE: WANT A GREAT BODY??? WORK HARD FOR IT - FORGET THE SHORTCUTS PEOPLE...LOOK AT THE DUDE IN THE ARTICLE ....THATS A PRIME EXAMPLE

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe, New York, NY — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:02:43 GMT

Anyone who uses steroids for bodybuilding is an idiot. It is well documented that steroid abuse can cause all types of adverse reactions. He deserved what he got. And all because he wanted big muscles quickly rather then taking the time to develop his physique over time using heathir means. Moron!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

mike ,pensacola,fl — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:10:57 GMT

WOW!!! Sick!! Lets see severe acne,"sad little pee pee"not worth it guys

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Dave , Dallas, TX — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:28:13 GMT

So you juice up to impress the ladys - then things shrink and you can't impress the ladies. Try a dozen roses and a bottle of wine next time.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

debby — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:28:30 GMT

that's what he gets, drugs will do worse he's lucky, what a loser

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

SLC, Utah — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:38:00 GMT

Since steroid use has been on the media radar, what an excellent sensationalized story to get your ratings. First off, these types or problems would be less likely if a steroid use was legal and regulated. When used in a controlled, regulated setting; issues illustrated in the proverbial article would be highly unlikely.

Why would it be legal to implant your body with silicone, saline or other cosmetic implants but using steroids for cosmetic gains are off limits? I find America a bit hypocritical, I’m certain there are horror stories dealing with cosmetic implants too; but they are legal.

The media likes to focus on horror stories like this and others gain ratings and justify why they aren’t legal. Its stories like this which suggest legalization and doctor controlled setting for cosmetic gains would prevent these stories.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Eric Goldman — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:41:08 GMT

this is just another case of someone who abused steroids. Used correctly none of this would have happend. lack of eduaction is apparent

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe Banks, ATL GA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:46:19 GMT

It could have been far worse... I lost a friend to steroid use... He died at 27 yrs old, his kidneys shut down... Left behind a beautiful daughter and promising insurance career.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Andy Andrews, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:51:18 GMT

Enough about the scars, what can the doctors do about his moobs?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

John Toradze — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:12:53 GMT

Steroids are also problematic for another basic reason. They stop growth in young men by making the ends of the long bones harden.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

KFL — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:13:39 GMT

SLC, you are misinformed. Steroids are legal and regulated for use by the medical profession in the U.S., just like cosmetic implants are. BTW the case in the story was in Germany so I'm not sure how you made the illogical leap to a problem in America. Have you been trying to score some muscle without success? Try exercising regularly.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Todd, Glendale, Az — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:19:35 GMT

You people are all complete morons. I have used for 2 years now and never had a single zit. Its celled genetics, some people are screwed and some are blessed.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe, MIA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:20:02 GMT

SLC hit the nail on the head...well said. It's all about profit and percieved evils of certain drugs. There are negative side effects to many prescription drugs.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Sylvia Lang, Capitol Heights, MD — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:23:47 GMT

It's obvious that this scarring took some time to manifest itself, all the while this young man continued to use the drugs. How silly to take a chance on the rest of your life for an opportunity to look "good" for awhile.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

AV, Durham — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:26:57 GMT

Thank you, SLC. What this individual had was unfortunate, but steroid use alone will not cause this sort of explosion in acne. Yes, exogenous androgens cause an increase in sebaceous gland secretions, but in the vast majority of cases this simply results in a slight increase in regular acne.

I would wager this same individual had terrible acne during puberty, when hormone levels are equally volatile. In this case, the issue is much like hair loss in steroid users. If the user is prone to male pattern balding, steroid use will greatly speed the process. Otherwise, the individual in question may notice marginal thinning after several years of cycling.

One needs to look no further than the first picture to determine that this individual was also not the most savvy about his usage. The slight puffiness in the nipples (from high levels of estrogen) shows that he was not taking proper precautions in his usage. It is very likely that he ignored his acne hypersensitivity as well. So the real lesson here is to NOT do something to your body unless you understand the consequences, and take the necessary precautions.

And SLC makes a fantastic point. Look at the terrible cosmetic surgeries gone wrong, or even the sheer brutality people routinely undergo for a perfect face, perfect breasts, or perfect figure. From severe dieting to tummy tucks to implants, there are too many horrible elective procedures with terrible complications that are considered socially acceptable. One doesn't need to look much futher than medical journals to see the numerous disfigurations (and worse) that can occur from much more socially acceptable forms of "self improvement".

I am not an advocate of steroid usage, but I am certainly an opponent of sensationalism. It insults the reader's intelligence, and providing part of a story is often worse than providing no story at all.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

donnieboy9, Central Texas — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:35:44 GMT

Serves him right. Where are the parents or parental people who should be looking out for kids like this. Better yet why is he so stupid to do this? I hope he's scared for life. Juicer are fools.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Earl, Naples, Florida — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:36:30 GMT

Interesting, no mention of what he was taking, how much, where did he get them from or for how long. These are huge details that are never included. Its always been a blanket statement, Steriods are bad. If they were legal and prescribed by a Dr. these issues could be severly reduced. Another thing to contemplate, different people have different reactions to different things. You'll never hear stories about HRT (hormone replacement therapy) that saved older men from muscle deterioration, etc. Jump on the Steroid bandwagon, knowledge not necessary

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

PM, NJ — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:37:12 GMT

Do you really think legalizing and clinical regulation would help? Implants and such are actual surgical procedures and therefore fall under existing regulations. Injections of botox and the likes are hardly a sound comparison next to steroid use.

Ever heard of a botox party? Apparently they're not all legally done, either, with friends giving friends injections. I'm sure there are entities at work trying to crack down on that as well.

If you legalize something like steroid use, you'd end up most likely making more abusers. They'd start because it's legal, then figure one extra injection/pill wouldn't hurt from time to time. And so on.

I would have to disagree that legalization and doctor controlled settings would help. If anything, it would just add some extra lawsuits because some doctors would get accused of not doing a good enough screening prior to starting someone on roids. And our courts are already backlogged enough.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Kim, Wisconsin — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:38:54 GMT

This article should be sent to every High School Gym and Weight Room across America. This young man will have to live with this the rest of his life, Is it really worth it??

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Hannah F., Chester, SC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:47:43 GMT

Um, I think you are taking things a bit far by comparing sterile implant placement with unregulated anabolic steroid use. While it is still a matter of aesthetic quality, implants don't alter the body's normal biochemical reactions. At most, the body may reject the implant, or develop post-op infection. With steroids, one is attempting to modify the body's natural balance of hormones and body chemistry, which as of now isn't an exact science. Even with women's hormone replacement therapy there is controversy over whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Also, with the implants, one can elect to have them removed, and the body returns to a normal state. Even after stopping anabolic steroid use, problems like infertility and small testicles may never be resolved since the artificial hormone replacement therapy can stimulate the body to adapt accordingly, which involves dissuse of the testicles. Back to the plastic surgery, if the goal of the individual is to look more defined, there are plastic surgeons who implant fake muscles. I have seen fake pecs, calves, and biceps so far. I think that would be a safer alternative to steroids. Unfortunately, I think there will always be a population of individuals who will use anabolic steroids regardless of the controversy, and I do think that for them the regulation of steroid use and better education about the risks would be helpful. You're right about America being a bit of a hypocrite, but really, isn't everybody??

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Elmer Fudd, Bumfukt EG — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:50:53 GMT

The only person making comments on this that even knows what theyre talking about is SLC,Utah. All you other idiots need to STFU. You talking about something you know nothing about,the same way the media misleads people on this same subject. If youre not educated on something,dont go running your mouth about it...simple. There is no way in hell that is from Steroids,obviously some type of skin disorder,sure he used them in the past so thats what gets the blame,mainly because its the hot topic right now. Media makes me wanna puke,along with you other idiots

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Chris, Va — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:55:55 GMT

This guy obviously had not done any research about steroid cycles and PCT-post cycle therapy. I agree 100% with SLC. You're not supposed to stay on for "several months", if steroids were legal, and could be prescribed under a Dr's supervision, there wouldn't be stories like this.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Anonymous, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:08:57 GMT

Wow. I've had acne all my life, but never anything like this. This is some type of alien acne. Honestly, if he would have taken high dose B5 and Vitamin D (which regulates the oil in the skin) it wouldn't have gotten this bad. He also could have thrown in Probiotics and Vitamin A.

I've been through the steroid crap back in the 90's. I got nothing but side effects: I got bloated looked, acne, prostate problems and the worst part... Gynecomastia aka bitch tits (which I had to have removed 4 different times on each nipple). It isn't worth it.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Dublin, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:18:53 GMT

Silicone, despite what some would have you believe, is safe. Steroid use is not. I doubt moniroing would make it any better. After all, Barry Bonds, Marion Jones, and others were under the care of BALCO, and yeah they are fine NOW, but what about LATER?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Cathy Sheetz, Elyria, Ohio — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:20:57 GMT

I could handle a man with scars, but a man with raisin's for nuts - sorry, no can do!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:21:49 GMT

Problem is that other effects of steroids, such as heart or joint problems, are not as clearly visible. This is why steroids remain illegal.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

DSA - Ft W, Texas — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:22:54 GMT

SLC - Why did you mention America - did you read where the story is from - do you know where Dusseldorf is - it is in Germany. Are steriods legal in Germany? Are they regulated there? I dont know - do you?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joey, miami,FL — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:23:07 GMT

The reason are illegal and implants aren't is because steroids are performance enchancers. Which means they give you faster reflexes, reaction times and major increases in strength. Welcome to america!!! we are the land of hypocrits and ignorants..."I can die for my country and elect the nations next president but im not responsible enough to drink a beer with my father?"-me

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Ron Chicago — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:23:24 GMT

Forget the acne;what about his man tool. I never understood guys like this. They want all these muscles often times to get the ladies; yet when they get them they can't satisfy them with their tiny little poker. One would think that it is better for a women to be pleasantly surprised than extremely disappointed.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

CB, Arkansas — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:23:50 GMT

Is it just me, or does the body thats in photo's B and C not look like the same body that is in photo A. The guy in B and C has very little muscle, as opposed to the guy in photo A. I agree though, steroids are not the way to go!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Pat, Lebanon, NH — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:24:29 GMT

I agree with SLC. The illegality of steroids in large part contributed to this patient's problem. The fact that the patient refused to admit to steroid use to his doctors was in part due to the illegal nature. The lack of twice a week dosing for several months was also due to a lack of information regarding safer use of steroids. The war on drugs has claimed another victim. The government needs to stop violating our civil liberties for a war that will never be won.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

TLP, Alabama — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:26:49 GMT

SLC, you should note that this did not happen in America. It happened in Germany!! And steroids ARE legal when prescribed by a doctor, moron. There are plenty of things that are legal that still get abused (Alcohol for instance). You really need to think before you start ranting.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Matt, Phoenix — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:26:49 GMT

Yeah, and I'm sure you're not using steriods, SLC...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mark, Palm Springs, California — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:27:26 GMT

SLC is exactly right.

If anything, this story shows that it's always better to be open about one's hobbies. Being "in the closet" about steroid use is what contributed to this young man's plight, not the steroid use itself.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

ken k — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:27:54 GMT

slc: "I find America a bit hypocritical"

uh, excuse me, but I believe "a dermatologist who treated the young man at Heinrich Heine University in Dusseldorf, Germany." leaves America out of this.

doofus

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Ron - Chicago — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:28:52 GMT

This is to SLC in Utah. Spoken just like a man with a tiny wacker. Good for you; more ladies for us with large and industrial man tools. I think the ladies would agree you can have all the muscles you want but the only ones they really care about is what's in your heart and the one in your pants.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Scott, SCV, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:29:06 GMT

This is a classice example of over and improper use. Used properly steroids are not necissarily a bad thing. This kid obviously threw caution to the wind and stayed on his cycle way too long. The media can point the finger to steroids, but ultimately it's is this kid's fault for not using them properly. Do you blame a gun for putting a bullet in somone? No, you blame the shooter. Same case here. Personally I do not use steriods myself, but have friends that do, and who use them properly. Side effects can occurr when using any drug wrong. Just ask Heath Leger...ouch.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jess,Housotn, TX — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:29:53 GMT

That is what you get for taking Steroids. It does not pay to be the best.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

ka7, California — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:32:13 GMT

Hey "SLC, Utah" its illegal because it gives an unfair advantage to the "athletes" that choose to drug up. If someone has to compete in their natural state against someone who has voluntarily turned themselves into a Hulk-like monster, how can it be judged who is the better athlete??

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

JAG, NYC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:33:18 GMT

SLC Utah, if you read the article this happened in Germany. I'm tired of people bad mouthing the U.S like we are the worst country in the world. As for the story, I do not have sympathy for this kid. He made the decision on his own, yes what happened to him was unfortunate but as the saying goes, "you reap what you sew. Maybe he can become a spokesman for anti-steroid use.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

John,wichita — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:33:23 GMT

SLC are you a roid user. Hope not. Why not just eat right and work out????

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

BMG, OH — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:33:44 GMT

Nevar fear!!1 The gub'mint is here to save your from you stupid, ignorant, helpless selves!! Trust your godverment!! They know better!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

darrin las vegas — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:34:17 GMT

wOW! At what point did this nit wit go see a doctor? I mean come on... how did he let it get so bad. The eruptions on the first picture would have been enough for me.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Bo, Tulsa, Oklahoma — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:34:36 GMT

Okay, I won't defend steroid usage; it's a choice that some opt for on this planet but like many choices it must be done with some intelligence or you'll get burned, er, or scarred. A couple of things to note, many people use steroids regularly and never have any issues, (Louie Simmons for one), it is reasonable to assume they will affect different people differently. We should also consider responsible usage of any drug, alcohol; nice digestif or addictive substance or killer? My knowledge is limited her but I understand steroid users cycle and regularly go off for a period of time to avoid complications like this poor uneducated guy. The atrophied testicles is a standard that reverses when steroid usage stops. This is not true for gynecemastia or true for women that use anabolic steroids.

Price would be too high for me to try them, I think vanity boob jobs and butt implants are stupid as well, but I'm attracted to athletic small chested women and despise the look of fake breasts. It's all a choice but if you choose any aberrant behavior from what nature intended you sure as heck should educate yourself first

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

JHN, Cali — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:38:55 GMT

Uh...SLC...pretty much 'no' to everything you said.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

TA, Cleveland, OH — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:41:04 GMT

SLC'S comments suggests he uses steroids!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Molly, Tallmadge, OH — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:41:40 GMT

As if the fake bake tan and freaky man-boobies weren't yucky enough...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

SM Washington DC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:45:17 GMT

SLC - while you may find America hypocritical about what is permitted and what is not, please notice that the young man in question is from Germany.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

BWM — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:45:54 GMT

To SLC, why bring up America? Fine argument that the country isn't perfect. But the guy was from Germany.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

LMSC, IA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:48:47 GMT

Legalizing and regulating steroids wouldn't help the situation because most people who use them do it for performance gains, not cosmetic. If it is legal for someone to use steroids for performance then those who chose not to would be at a greater disadvantage than they are now. Legalizing steroids would only encourage more people to use them, people who would normally not consider doing so.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Chris, Oakland, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:52:04 GMT

I don't care for the condescending, deriding inferences to the effects of steroids on his testicles (i.e. "testicles in a sad little shrunken state" and "tiny testicles and paltry sperm count". Yes, we are aware that using steroids has adverse side-effects on a male's sexual organs, but there's no need to mock the 21 year old kid who used bad judgment and is now scarred for life. In future articles, please keep it professional, Melissa.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Me From Conshy, PA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:54:16 GMT

SLC,

You are a complete idiot!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

PATRICK, LONG BEACH, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:54:33 GMT

Steroids should be (if they are not already) dispensed solely by and/or to drug companies that make legal prescribed drugs, using steroids as a component of those medications, and then, those medications prescribed by certified doctors for some medical conditions. So the makers of steroids should be held directly responsible for their lawful distributions accordingly.
Or are steroids manufactured by anyone who knows how to make them and then sold illegally ?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

mike, steroid user, SLC UT — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:54:37 GMT

this is another scare tactict used by the government/media to show how "deadly" steroids are. its the guys own fault that he abused them and faced the consequences. Read up on steroids and do some reasearch and you will find out the truth not some propaganda fed to you by the biased media.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Craig Barber, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:56:12 GMT

SLC, very interesting comments. I was under the impression that anabolic steriods were never designed or meant for any type of long-term use because they produce a number of undesireable side effects. Are they used/regulated in any other countries that you're aware of?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

jill, belmar nj — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:57:20 GMT

funny how it happened to someone that obviously cared too much about what he looks like. i dont feel bad for him.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Denise, Mineral, Virginia — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:59:35 GMT

Too bad..My question to him...Was it worth it?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

EnderWiggin52@yahoo.com — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:01:33 GMT

The key to understanding this item is in the first two words of its title "Steroid Abuse." Had he been using these anabolic substances in a sane and responsible manner it is likely he would not have been bothered by acne at all... And the reason he was disfigured by the outbreak is that he did not seek treatment for the condition when it first appeared... The misguided fear mongers that caused these drugs to be criminalised and the victim's own stupidity and ignorance in the correct dosing of these substances are the cause of this Horror story not the steroids themselves...

As SLC, Utah has stated, had the drugs been regulated and made available through channels that understand how to use these substances properly for the results the victim wanted to achive, the whole tragic affair would have never happened.

Andrew Wiggin, Jacksonvile, Fl

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

bob dodge, LA, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:02:22 GMT

Dude...SLC guy...I didn't realize there were any juicing mormons. I thought their only vice was doing their cousins and both their wives. Really though, you gotta be kidding me that you believe that stuff, right? Oh, BTW, steroid use is legal, with a prescription.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jim, Schlitzville, MT — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:02:56 GMT

He looks pretty kick ass in picture A. I wonder why he stopped taking them? If he's got any left, I'll take 'em, LOL!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Omaha — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:03:40 GMT

HaHa! SLC must be a 'roid user.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Rick — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:04:39 GMT

Kat, Canada
This example is not that of all steroid users, it is of one steroid ABUSER!
This is an expert from a recent movie on bodybuilding; "And even though the experts know a lot more about steroids, you sure wouldn't know it from the news". The news as in this case as well, is not a panel of experts!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Ken, Boulder, CO — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:06:51 GMT

"these types or problems would be less likely if a steroid use was legal and regulated"

That's a truly brilliant insight. Prescription painkillers are legal and regulated, but that doesn't stop people from screwing themselves up now, does it? Government regulation does not stop people with problems from making mistakes and it won't stop stupid people from being stupid.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

mhuntley@mail.com — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:08:15 GMT

I find it funny that SLC is complaining about "America a bit hypocritical", as the kid in the article was german, as in GERMANY.

Abuse of any form of drug is sad and should be prevented as often as possible (alcohol as well). Unfortunately for us, we live in a world where athletes are prized and praised, and education has little emphasis. Winning at any cost is drilled into the heads of kids, who grow up dreaming of multi-million dollar contracts, and juicing is a quick way to be the best. Most don’t care about, or know about the consequences.

I say, when a kid starts off in a sport, you show them pictures of people with side effects like this. Let the kids see what happens when you do the juice. And when an athlete is found using some enhancement, kick him to the curb.

But that’s just my $0.02 worth.

hazz

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

SKC, Atlanta, Ga. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:09:59 GMT

Thank U so much!!! Finally I hear from some1 with some sense. U have folks out here implanting, extracting & needle pricking themselves with rat poison. This world is going to shyt! Like the person said b4 me, if it was legal, regulated, given an approval from the Gov. There wouldn't be any issues.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Adam, Dallas, TX — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:10:22 GMT

Sorry SLC from Utah, but we hear the same misguided rhetoric from idiots like you who try and use the same argument to legalize marijuana and narcotics.

Metabolic steroids are both physically and psychologically dangerous to use. Your analogy is completely wrong. I don't remember the last time someone with a cosmetic implant went into such a fit of anger that they beat their wife/husband to death. Ever heard of 'roid rage? Cosmetic implants only alter your physical appearance (when done correctly), hence the name "cosmetic". While steroids affect you chemically, hormonally, and psychologically. Do some research before you spout off your nonsensical BS online.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

bob@bob.net — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:11:18 GMT

Maybe the reason that steriod abuse is not viewed in the same way as "saline, silicon or other cosmetic implants" is because those things do not cause the personality changes, especially the uncontrollably aggressive behavior induced by steroid abuse.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

twag — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:14:41 GMT

that's OK... chicks dig scars..... (that's a joke, for those without a sense of humor...)

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Neal, Los Angeles — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:14:50 GMT

This is a horror story to the extreme and not typical whatsoever of the responsible sane use of steroids by adults.

The media usually prefers to paint a different picture, but with a doctor's supervision it is very possible for adult males to safely and effectively use steroids with virtually no ill effects.

Media hysteria and ridiculously strict anti-steroid laws perpetuate misinformation and force desperate bodybuilders to use underground drugs with no doctor supervision, resulting in this type of horror story.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

too vane for his own good — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:15:27 GMT

gross. I don't feel sorry for him. If you are body building and you don't know that steroids are bad for you then your an idiot.

What's amazing about body builders of this type is that they are actually super unhealthy when they go down this road. It's so narcissitic and you'll never meet a more insecure group than a bunch of giant muscle bound bodybuilders. They are the equivalent of the california blonde girl that has way too much plastic surgery.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

matt, pennsylvania — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:19:49 GMT

@SLC, Utah:
your comment is completely absurd. Steroids can do much more harm than any implant. I can't understand your motive for your comment other than that you are taking them and need to justify your actions with silly comments.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Darwin — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:19:52 GMT

I think the overall argument against Roid use while other cosmetic procedures are legal is that roids also increase aggression and uncontrolable fits of anger. Not in everyone or every case, but it is a common side effect.

Luckly, silicone boobs dont make women punch their fists through walls, or beat up their boyfriends. Overall, I still think people should just relax, and be happy. Roids and silicone are both side effects of the media bombarding us with unrealistic standards of beauty.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Sir Vic , Lynnwood WA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:23:04 GMT

OK. One guy out of millions of steroid users worldwide. Let's see some large numbers of people so affected, and from reasonable usage, before we decide that even a drop of steroids is evil.
If steroids kill, where are all the bodies?

(And don't give me Taylor Hooten: he killed himself because his shrink put him on a drug we know to cause suicidal ideations. His dad just wants to blame everyone but himself for his child's miserable life.)

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Tony, Virginia — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:25:27 GMT

You know what is really ridiculous, is that you can get there naturally - and it lasts longer with better results. Now don't get me wrong, you can't get to the superhuman body builder physique naturally, but you can get as close as a human should be. I should know, it took 3 years, but I'm not that far off this guy's "before" picture - all completely natural and without side-effects. Everyone wants a shortcut these days.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Dirk Diggler, Las Vegas — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:25:37 GMT

I agree with SLC - excellent sensationalized article to feed the hype of ignorant individuals about why steroid use is bad.

If you abuse your body with any substance and don't follow the directions, it will abuse you back, which is clearly the case here.

I wonder what Arnold would say..

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

John, Boston — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:26:21 GMT

to SLC Utah:

Steriods my uninformed friend are legal in the same way that silicon implantations are legal, when performed under the direction of a doctor.

It is equal to say that it is illegal for an unlicensed doctor to perform a silicon implantation.

In this way, we are not hypocritical. The FDA does not deal with classes of drugs per se. They deal with items on an individual basis based on their health risks.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

john doe, seattle, wash. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:27:53 GMT

kiddies, don't take shortcuts. cheaters never prosper.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

RM, Sacramento, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:29:22 GMT

Legalizing it would not make it any cheaper or easier to get for the that purpose. It is a drug that is easy to abuse, cheaper on the streets and no one dealing it is not going to tell you how to use it. Your average user is ignorant of the adverse consequences and does no research in that regard. In my opinion, you are taking the same risk with any body altering enhansements. You are taking a chance that something can go terribly wrong, even if done properly and there are some that will go underground to save a few buck at the risk of their life. Perhaps they don't want it legalized because they can not predict good enough results to outweigh law suits when they don't. Horror stories in these cases are not rare, do not help anyone's ratings and are simply warnings regarding potential damage. Considering the ethics of some of the doctors that perform cosmetic procedures, legal does not mean regulated and/or safe.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Ulysses Doe — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:29:35 GMT

Funny how the muscle just dissapears as soon as you stop using the gear.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

DC DC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:29:58 GMT

This guy didn't just wake up one morning to suddenly find himself scarred. The acne and lesions build up, and the problem escalates. So in this case the guy just continued to ignore a worsening condition, continued to exacerbate it, and did not seek help until far too late.

Don't ask me to feel sympathetic.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Dave, Irvington, New jersey — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:32:19 GMT

WOW!!! What a lesson to be learned. I wonder if after treatment and time, will his skin clear up?? I feel sorry for the guy. Who advised him to do this?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Juan Diego — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:34:35 GMT

It looks like he just needed a longer time to acclimate his skin to the steroids. He gave up short of his goal!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mike Goike, Nashville, Tennessee — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:35:48 GMT

Wow how did that happen? I haven't heard any negative effects from taking steroids. Poor Guy he is an innocent victim.........note the sarcasm.......DUMB@SS!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

TLH, florida — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:38:00 GMT

Hey, SLC, you just said that legalizing it would solve the problem and then you give the example that legalized cosmetics have their horror stories anyway. Which is it going to be, SLC?

Lay of the roids until your brain function comes back.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

DON STL, MO — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:38:21 GMT

I use them on a bi-daily basis. I am ripped out of my mind and love being eye candy for the ladies. I am yum yum yummie!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Eugene, Lodi, NJ — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:38:30 GMT

I saw this about 25 years ago in my gym. A friend of mine was juicing and when he bench pressed he would lay down and do his reps, and then when he finished and got up, you could see blotches of blood all over the back of his shirt. I don't knwo if he has permanent scarring, I haven't seen him in about 20 years, but this is no joke man.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

J.S. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:39:42 GMT

This comment is in response to the comment from SLC of Utah on the steroid abuse scars -

First of all, steroid use IS legal and regulated - for reasons other than getting bigger muscles. You have to have a prescription. Even people who use prescribed steroids for medically necessary reasons have side effects. THIS is the reason it is only for medically necessary things and not stupid vanity.

Second point - the guy using steroids WASN'T living in America. This guy was in Dusseldorf, Germany! SO apparently the U.S. isn't the ONLY country that doesn't allow steroid use for vanity.

Third point - What good is having big muscles to impress anyone if your testicles shrivel to infant size?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Sean — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:40:32 GMT

SLC, to be clear, anabolic steroids are legally prescribed by doctors for various medical conditions. Their use is only illegal if you don't have a prescription. This does in fact define "legal and regulated" as you suggest above.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Richard, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:40:39 GMT

As a former steroid user and aspiring Neuroscientist, Melissa Dahl's article was filled with sexist insults and lacked scientific neutrality.

When Melissa Dahl used the term, "... his testicles were in a sad little shrunken state" and, "... the tiny testicles and paltry sperm count", my jaw dropped to the floor. Adding insulting comments to a scientific article not only shows the immaturity level and apparent ignorance to the sensitivity of the topic but, also lends ugliness to scientific reporting.

I wonder, if Melissa was reporting on a woman whose silicone implants started to explode in her breasts, would Melissa write comments like, " her breasts were in a sad little shrunken and infected state" or, "when the fluid was released, her tiny breasts were alleviated of infection."? This educated mind is thinking, probably not!

While this story is interesting scientifically, Melissa's additional sexist and insulting comments took this three-time-a-day MSNBC.com reader's mind away from the science and into Melissa's "glam-reporting" and obvious sexist anger towards men who take risks to become stronger and educated physcially.

Melissa, if you are going to report scientifically, do just that. Otherwise, keep glam-reporting on Paris Hilton's newest outfit and Brittany Spears latest accident or maybe Michael Jackson latest jacket sequence. Leave the real reporting to Kim Campbell Thornton, Diane Mapes or, Michael Kahn. Chances are, their editor read their MSNBC.com articles before they were posted.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Dave, New York NY — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:41:09 GMT

Agreed with SLC

The origin of steroid legislation isn't in some profound medical breakthrough where people realized how bad they are- it's in the baseball scandals, and the public outcry that pressured law makers to "do something" about it (which invariably is enacting new laws). The medical justifications come later in order to keep them on the books.

**Proper** Steroid use under medical supervision causes no long-term side effects (note that this gentleman's shrunken testicles and lowered sperm count returned to normal- it is a myth that these are permanent side effects!)

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jon B, Santa Fe, NM — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:44:35 GMT

this guy need some Pro-Active.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jon B, Santa Fe, NM — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:44:39 GMT

this guy need some Pro-Active.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

TeeZee, Sacramento, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:45:13 GMT

Education, education and EDUCATION!! Listen and learn jocks (dumb and smart alike).

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Tom, Rochester NY — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:48:41 GMT

No, I doubt many others will learn from his mistake. That's why people keep using steroids. HE should have learned from the mistakes that OTHERS have made. He must have known there was a risk; he took that risk, and this happened. Can't say I feel too sorry for him at all.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mad Max — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:55:58 GMT

That dude should try proactiv

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

LD — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:00:59 GMT

Some of you are quite entertaining with your condemnation of those who feel some legalization measures would assist in improving safety of those who are going to do them.

Yes I realize this kid is in Germany, but the US topic was brought up and that tends to be the foundation of half the folks criticism.

Yes in many European countries personal use IS legal.

In fact during ORD(for all you self proclaimed anti-roiders who tell people to do some research..do some of your own) there were quite a few countries who did not bow down to USA pressure and participate.

Oh and yes many folks do use underground laboratory products that have no safety standards etc...you want to run all those out of business..make them legal with a doctors care even for performance or cosmetic usage.

No one says insurance companies should have to pay the cost, so pricing and economics isn't a factor as an arguement.

Another side note is painkillers..yes they are abused, but so are many other things from booze, to diet pills, to oh my God....FAST FOOD.

If you truly thing the FDA is not run or majorly influenced by the drug companies then some of you really do need to take your own advice and do some research.

Oh yes, can't forget the RAGE issue. There are as many non-government or university independant studies that counter your arguement. It's amazing that government funded studies tend to reflect the view that they want shown isn't it? While independant or non government subsidized studies show different data?

BTW...you do realize that into the early 2000's federal websites proclaimed quite boldly the steroids giving any type of performane gain was an entirely mythical concept with no true basis whatsoever!

And for all your robots who attack someone with a different opinion than you..I feel sorry for you...perhaps soon they legalize a pill that will give you some personal fortitude to have an opinion that is formed from an actual individual opinion rather than the masses and media.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

me here — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:01:35 GMT

Steroids do not a perfect body make.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Scott, Ca — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:03:37 GMT

oh look. Another user rationalizing their abuse of products by blaming the government for keeping it down. It's no different than saying let's legalize drugs - - because it'll only be in a controlled fashion that people use it. Massive potheads will lower their use of the stuff because it's legal. BS. Usage would triple, and their are long term health risks. Sending the message to kids that it's ok is wrong, no matter how you spin it.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Unome, private idaho, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:03:57 GMT

this kid puts the 'why' in Yuck!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why would anyone right in the head do this to themselves??????

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Steriods Hurt More Than The User — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:08:37 GMT

Re: those who ask what the difference is between steroids and, say, silicone? Well, I've never heard of an assualt or murder commited by "boob rage".

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Steriods Hurt More Than The User — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:11:16 GMT

Uh, Melissa, re-read the story. The article reports that, and I quote, "Happily, his manhood issues – the tiny testicles and paltry sperm count – returned to normal after he quit using the steroids." Are you a man with withered testicles?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

G. TORRES BEEVILLE, TX. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:13:49 GMT

ITS ALL CRAP. I HAVE BEEN USING STEROIDS FOR 40 YRS. AND IM IN PERFECT HEALTH.WITH HUGE BALLS.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Correction — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:16:49 GMT

Sorry Melissa - I mean't "Chris"

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

patrick battle creek, mi — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:17:36 GMT

its kind of a shame to be so hard on the guy...the ending of the story was blog entry was a little condescending...after all there are so many untold pressures to be bigger, better, faster and whatnot...we often hear about women who are tortured by body image issues...but men are equally assaulted by these issues as well...hope the guy makes a full recovery and helps other kids build clean healthy bodies...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Derek, Aurora, CO — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:23:17 GMT

Do you really believe that legalizing something will get people to use it properly? Valium in the 50s-70s, anyone? Oxycontin, anyone?

I think the real moral of the story is that we shouldn't need drugs to look good. Exercise, eat right, take care of yourself. That's all you should really need. If you feel like you have to take drugs and/or starve yourself to look good in the eyes of other people, you need to rethink the company you keep.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

olepapaswole, Baton Rouge, LA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:26:09 GMT

I do believe there is more to this situation than meets the eyes. Having trained for 45 years, been around steroid users and steroid abusers, I have never seen anything like this from either group. I will not approach the subject of steroid legality or illegality, but do suggest that everyone here access bodybuilding sites and a site called "Faces of Meth" and determine exactly what drugs are most dangerous to society as a whole.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Don, New York, NY — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:26:19 GMT

"sad, little", as opposed to "happy, big"? Finding testicles that can express emotion in relation to size - now that would be a fitting story for The Body Odd.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe P Leavenworth WA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:26:34 GMT

Personally, I'd be happy if most most of the above just learned to use the english language properly, ie. correct spelling and correct usage of punctuation.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

gayle englewood, nj — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:42:12 GMT

Did you notice the complete absence of acne on the Olympic athletes this year? How do they do it? Even normal teens and young adults have at least 1 pimple.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Andrew W, Conover, NC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:42:43 GMT

Wow. Wish I didn't read this while eating.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Andy, Lake Tahoe — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:44:46 GMT

I've taken steroids for 10 years and have never had anything even remotely bad happen to me. Furthermore, I know more about steroids than most doctors do and my physician even enjoys it when I come in to see him because I actually help educate him about this topic.

As with all things, you need to educate yourself about the things you're going to put in your body. I always laugh at people who sit there and bash people who use steroids when they are hardly educated on the topic to begin with. Just because the government has deemed it necessary to make steroids illegal, doesn't mean that they are as bad as people would like to think. After all, I've never heard of anyone dying from "second-hand" steroid abuse. Educate yourselves before speaking about, or trying, things you know nothing about.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mike, VA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:44:57 GMT

OMG, fucking idot..if he even did his homework right, none of that should have been happened...He def abused the hell out of it...IM DEF AND MOST POSITIVE, he used high dosages of test and deca and abuse it and it was a UG lab(underground lab), some of them are NOT clean and filled wt bateria and other oils...
DEF ITS ALL ABOUT THE GOVT NOW AND NEED MORE ATTENTION ON STEROIDS..instead of busting peeps who are using steroids to improve themselves by not looking fat(most 80% in US are fat), let me bust those dealers who are selling cracks, meth, coke and x and other rec drugs....
yeah stayin on for long time, will messed u up big time from bitch tits which is known as gyno(if u look at the first pic how his nips are hanging), acne, smaller testy and decreasing in sperm counts and ect....
AAS is used as med just like any other implants crap to look better.
My whole point is if u do your homework, u should be fine WITH NO PROB AND EVEN WT THE LIVER value.
yeah staying on oral for long time without coming off, considering your liver GOOD bye....
WHY DOES THE GOVT ALWAYS HAVE THE BAD NEWS AND NOT THE GOOD NEWS????
AAS AND GH HAS A LOT OF GOOD THING SUCH AS HELING PEOPLE WT HIV AND OTEHR CRAP AND INCREASE UR TEST LEVEL WHEN U GROW OLDER SO I CAN HAVE A NORMAL SEX LIFE INSTEAD OF POPING THOSE VIAGRA AND CIALS TABS

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Andy Malcolm, SLC, Utah — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:45:26 GMT

Could it be Site Enhancement oil injections ?

That sure looks like he was injecting SEO to stretch his upper pecs.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mark Cleveland, Oklahoma City, OK — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:49:51 GMT

A famous American president had no choice except to abuse steroids, meth, and pain killers. John F Kennedy was in ill health his entire life due to Addisons Disease. His adrenal glands produced less and less adrenalin every year. Steroids were the only choice for doctors to prolong his life. He probably had brain cancer before his mercy killing in Dallas.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Angie, New Bern, NC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:50:19 GMT

ALBUTEROL is a steriod for asmatha about 1billion people in the us take it steriods are necessary for a specific medical purpose but not for vanity reasons. I agree SLC needed to read the story first then comment. FDA REGULATES steriods and we will continue to use them for medical purposes ALBUTEROL, Ipatropium, Beclomethasone and other's like it have saved lives especially children.Can you tell I have worked in the Regulatory Dept. of a Pharmaceutical company.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Wendy, Simi Valley, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:52:30 GMT

This article fails to differentiate the difference between "using" and "abusing" steroids. Proper use of steroids usually yields only mild androgenic (negative) side effects, if any. As the article mentions, this man was dosing twice a week for several months. The article does not mention previous cycles, so if we assume this was his first, how irresponsible of him to use such high doses for such a length of time! If steriod use consistently caused such serious side effects, no one would continue to use them. Their continued popularity proves that careful use is very helpful and very safe.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jeni 'Benni' Berzof, North Charleston, SC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:57:29 GMT

I took steroids when my Serbian assistant manager used to beat me for not getting tire information - it's true about the testicles shrinking. My testicles used to be the size of plums, but now they are like shriveled up dying raisin with a very strong odor – it kinda smells like someone took a moist rhino terd and put it in the microwave for 20 minutes… actually more like 3 hours. Steroids make me very emotional. I cried a lot when my boss's wife had a baby a few months ago and even when my boss gave birth to a 50 piece wing set 'YEAAAA' i couldn't stop the tears from pouring. Also i get roid rage and beat up the elderly. But on a positive note I have manliest hairy pecs in town and my squats are steady around 600 at 6 reps. Who wants to braid my back hair??

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Alex, Portland, OR — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:57:47 GMT

Steroid use/body building is akin to eating disorders. Same S###, different pile.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Randy A. Freeman Grants Pass, Or. 97526 — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:00:23 GMT

I will be praying for this young man. I will pray that he desires to seek the Creator of this universe for the Truth. Don't believe me or others. Find it out on your own. This was my prayer that ultimately was answered in spades: "God, Father, Creator, if you exist please reveal yourself to me". Someone who I respect tremendously is Ravi Zacharia. One can hear Ravi on You Tube by the way. Here's an example of Ravi, paraphrased by myself: "When I travel back to my homeland in Indian, my people tell me that your Jesus is simply one of many gods. My response to this; Before you go to bed at night, get down your knees and say this prayer; Jesus, if you are real, please, reveal yourself to me. After you do this for 100 days come back and tell me that my Jesus is 1 of a 1000." I've timed it and found that it takes roughly 15 seconds or less than a half hour over those 100 days. 15 seconds multiplied 100 times. Do you have 15 seconds per day to ask for something that is a long shot in your mind? Again, one doesnt have to believe me or the Pastor or the Priest. God will meet you where you're at. Wouldn't it blow your mind if all of a sudden the Creator of all that is and will be to come reveals himself to you and gives you the Truth. It's nothing short of a Sacred Romance w/ a supernatural force named Jesus Christ who hung the stars in the sky, and tells the sun to shine and of all the places he could choose to live in this universe, He chooses my heart?, Your heart, our hearts? He loves us all the same and there is nothing that we can do that would make him love us anyless. For 30 yrs. i was in the dark abyss of phamaceutical drugs, opiates. I spent 20 yrs. on methadone. another paraphrase from His Word; " He who is forgiven of much,loves much" and the love i have for Him is inmeasurable. His love for me is uncomprehendable. More than I've experienced w/ women, my parents or any other people. Would you like to fall in love with God? i can hook you up,or if you're like me you may need to seek the Truth on your own. Another important thing I did while I was on my quest for the Truth was before opening my Bible I would pray that the Lord would speak to me through his word. He does regularly! The Holy Spirit now guides me through His Word and the Bible now breathes and is His Living Word. But again; You don't kinow me, don't believe me. If you . e diligent in seeking the Trith He will reveal himself. Peace be with You,
a freeman by grace @ yahoo.com

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mike, VA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:02:11 GMT

one more thing, i forgot to add, to ME, pic A DOES NOT MATCH B AND C.
pic A is a different man from B,and C..u can tell from the muscle line and the way they are shaped/form.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

philly, PA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:05:02 GMT

#1 - there is not one single death anywhere that has ever been DIRECTLY linked to steroid use. Not one! Some people have sensationalized certain deaths as being from steroids but they always seem to negate the fact that there were preexisting conditions, other drugs invoved, certain lifestyles which were counterproductive to continued existence.
we all know about lyle alzado. yeah, steroids killed him right? i bet it was steroids, not the pounds and pounds of cocaine that blew his insides apart? or was it the tons and tons of alchohol that he was imbibing on a regular basis? or was it the nonstop partying, nonstop sex with strange women, tons of regular NSAIDS for pain and painkillers? Nah, you are right. it was steroids.
as for the above whose kidneys shut down. steroids do not cause that. a pre-existing condition in the body does. now i am sure if he was taking tons of juice he helped speed the process but guess what? his kidneys would have shut down eventually anyway and then what would you blame? by the way, if he was taking a ton of juice at the time then seriously, who is really to blame? the steroids or the user? since it takes an act of a willing participant to take these drugs i would say that you only have one person to blame. noone was ever forced to take them.
one final note, steroids are not the golden grail. women hate the way bodies look on them. people who take them cant fit regular clothes. they tend to sweat more than normal. they also tend to have a certain B.O. smell as well as the acne and all other side effects. so taking steroids is such a personal choice to accept all this negative junk. you have to really really really want to take them to endure the ridicule, discomfort, and lack of social standing.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Vicky, Roseville, CA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:07:04 GMT

What a dumba##!!!!! I'm sorry, but I just don't understand why anyone would allow that to happen to their body unless they had some sort of mental problem. He was so determined to build his muscles he let his skin rot off!!!! To allow that to continue to the state he had it is inexcusable. He deserves what he got and I hope that others will learn from his mistakes and WAKE UP, that drugs, like steroids, are BAD!!!!!! DUH!!!!!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Brian Peterson, Austin, Texas — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:18:27 GMT

I think the only (and I say this kindly) idiots who think it is kewl to recreationally adjust your steroid level probably never passed freshman biology. Only gross ignorance of the endocrinal system would permit such an ignorant statement.

By the way, I am a prescription steroid user. Not something you want to do unless it is mediacally indicated.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Foster Boston MA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:30:25 GMT

Steroids are not that bad. They have many uses, but the witch hunts derived from atheletes using them to cheat has created such a negative feeling that people can't look at steroids objectively.

Low sperm count, liver toxicity, shrunken balls, etc. are just temporary problems that go away when you discontinue usage or cycle off.

The possible rewards for usage outweigh the possible negative effects for many. We have tons of atheletes admited to using steroids that are successful, yet we don't tell the truth about side effects. I had a friend who thought they can give you brain tumors. The lack of knowledge and education is ridiculous. This is very similar to the villianization of drugs in the 80s.

Personally I don't take drugs or steroids, but the propaganda against them is riduclous. When people who obviously know nothing about topics testify or report on them, it destroys their credibiity.

Things like testosterone treatement for older men suffering from low levels has been proven to be useful. Low levels of test can cause depression which has a whole host of negative effects. Steroid use for this kind of treatment will suffer because of negative propaganda. People don't see steroids as a tool that can be used or misused, but as a negative thing with no redeeming qualities. Steroids are not crack. I just wish we'd see more reality in coverage of steroids, but you can't blame reporters. No one wants to see a report about how steroids really are.

That being said, people prone to enlarged puffy nipples, acne, baldness and other hormone problems would be stupid to use steroids of a similar nature to the hormones they've had issues with unless they want to make their problem worse. It's also obvious that when this kid had steroid related problems he kept taking them. I would have to agree that some kind of doctor regulation and perscription would have solved this problem.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Bib Al, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:33:51 GMT

What is the use of having a Hercules body to attract a lot of women if you are left with "raisins" once you get em? Psych treatment is the solution...low self esteem.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

brendan, atlanta ga. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:44:42 GMT

so i'm confused, which picture was when he was on steroids cause teh way i see it the steroids cleared up all that nasty junk and gave him a body builder look. Yea for steroids!!!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Christian A., Palm Bay, Florida — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:56:52 GMT

If you check Barry Bonds chest, it would probably look like the same.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Evil Elvis, Decator, ILL — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 22:08:26 GMT

Hey, on the positive side he has the possibility of a bright future in politics like the Governator.
'I didn't take Steroids for the muscles. I just wanted to reduce my scrotum to a manageable size'.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Danny, NYC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 22:12:07 GMT

People should be allowed to take whatever hormones they choose.

It still would be banned and tested for in professional sports - these are organizations that will always be free to set their own rules to their respective games. They also could and should be illegal for teens but grown people should be able to make their own decisions in terms of hormones.

This young man wouldn't have been afraid to get to a doctor sooner for treatment and he certainly wouldn't have had his testicles shrink and his sperm count lowered because that is simple to treat with good information.

That's fine if someone doesn't want to take steroids but I don't understand why that should affect another person's individual liberty to do so. It's their body. Let them have the freedom to take ownership of it and make decisions for themselves. I'm all for the govenment providing safety information and recommendations but not legislating our hormones.

This is just media sensationalism. 99.9999*9% of men who take steroids don't end up like this. There is no scale to this story. It's intended only to create fear without providing a fair and honest look into people who use steroids.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Big (fat) Daddy - Chgo — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 22:16:52 GMT

The article itself is one example of the unfortunate results of steroid use.

The roid rage exhibited by some of the supporters of this poor little guy are another...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe, Akron, OH. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 22:35:49 GMT

Pointing at this story to legitimize the illegality of steroids is like pointing at someone who did plastic surgery on themselves to promote the criminalization of plastic surgery. Look at medical statistics. There are many, many more examples of death and permanent disfigurement cause by botched plastic surgery than there are from steroid abuse. Steroids are serious stuff. If this boy had bothered to spend 30 minutes Googling whatever shit he was using and followed the advice and instructions he'd found, he could have avoided a world of hurt. To anyone wanting to try steroids or pro-hormones, educate yourselves. Don't be stupid. Don't take steroids without KNOWING what you're doing. For that matter, don't do plastic surgery on yourself without KNOWING what you are doing either. This kid was just stupid. End of.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Frank — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 22:43:33 GMT

This is a perfect example of steroid abuse not use. There is a huge difference, like SLC in Utah said with proper education and research incidents like this one could have been avoided, but people continue to buy into the medias war against aas. There is no doubt steroids have side effects so does tylonol, nyquil, ibprofuren, and alcohol all do as well. But they only become profround through abuse.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Tony, NJ — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 22:46:01 GMT

"ALBUTEROL is a steriod for asmatha about 1billion people in the us take it steriods are necessary for a specific medical purpose but not for vanity reasons. I agree SLC needed to read the story first then comment. FDA REGULATES steriods and we will continue to use them for medical purposes ALBUTEROL, Ipatropium, Beclomethasone and other's like it have saved lives especially children.Can you tell I have worked in the Regulatory Dept. of a Pharmaceutical company.
Angie, New Bern, NC"
-------------------------------------------------
Well, Angie from New Bern NC, apparently you don't know the difference between a corticosteroid (the stuff that's in your asthma), and anabolic - androgenic steroids which are synthetic pharmacuetical derivative of the hormone testosterone. Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are manufactured substances related to male sex hormones (e.g., testosterone). “Anabolic” refers to muscle-building and “androgenic” refers to increased male sexual characteristics. “Steroids” refers to the class of drugs. These drugs can be legally prescribed to treat conditions resulting from steroid hormone deficiency, such as delayed puberty, but also body wasting in patients with AIDS and other diseases that result in loss of lean muscle mass.
And yet you Angie who works in the Regulatory Dept. of a Pharmaceutical company don't know the difference?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Bigdaddy — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 23:01:53 GMT

This article is a fake. There is no way the person in picture 'A' is the same person as pictures 'B' and 'C'...Why you ask? Well, the acne is way worse in pictures 'B' and 'C' (while supposedly not on steroids) than it is in picture 'A'. Not to mention the fact that the person in pictures 'B' and 'C' looks like he has never worked out in his life. Unless it was years in beween those pictures, and I say years as in 2+, he would most definitely retain muscle and muscle form. Thats more than enough to discredit this article. Thank you.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

john tacoma wash — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 23:19:50 GMT

ok to everyone who thinks steroids should be legal and regulated........ regulation is ineffective especially for prescribed medications, if they are so easily acquired when illegal think of how easy it will be when its legal.. take a look at prescribed drugs that are abused.. regulation doesnt work.. the problem with steroids isnt just that you are taking in too much testosterone which depletes your body of natural hormones and its ability to create its own, but psychological effects steroids have, which one that everyone knows about is the rage that comes along with steroid use.. which leads to murder.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:30:27 GMT

SLC= Stupid Liberatarian Comment. Enough Said.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

JB, ATL — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:32:48 GMT

lol @ Brendan fm the A.T.L.

"so i'm confused, which picture was when he was on steroids cause teh way i see it the steroids cleared up all that nasty junk and gave him a body builder look. Yea for steroids!!!!!"

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jav, LA, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 01:15:18 GMT

I had a lot of friends who regularly used steroids when we were in our 20's, and none of them had anything like this happen. A few of them that already had acne, got a slightly more broke out, but I've never seen anything like this, gross. This is a very rare case, and by the drastic difference in the on and off steroids photos, he was using some dangerously high dosages to begin with. I would discourage anyone from using steroids, but side effects this extreme are very rare. I guess the media will continue to be encouraged to be biased until the government (in any country) can somehow gain profit from enhancment drugs.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mr.Z indiana — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 01:41:08 GMT

slc, you and a few others that have commented on this story are absolutely right. All you other "internet tough guys" are just plain ignorant.
While this kid obviously waited too long to get this look at, he would have been fine if he would have went to a doc sooner.

I don't see the problem in the responsible use of steroids. In most of the world they're legal, and I would much rather be on the road with someone who just injected 1ml of test-e in his ass and popped a couple of dbol than someone whos been drinking.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

jc — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 01:54:32 GMT

LMSC you are in my opinion very wrong about the most predominant use of anabolic steroids. You contend that the average user is using them for performance enhancement. In all likelihood the usage for cosmetic purposes outweighs that by at least 10 to 1.

In preparation for testimony for the witch hunt of legal anabolics a couple years back Rick Collins did an extensive survey to determine the profile of the "typical" steroid user. The typical steroid user is usually a late 30s into the 40s male attemtping to gain or maintain muscle mass. It is very much a part of the stay young , look good baby boomer era that others use plastic surgery for.

I will give you that its possible that legalizing anabolic steroid use for cosmetic purposes might increase usage. That would be far offset by the fact that the usage overall would be medically managed. Proper support both during and after cycle would minimize damage to the user. Education on the dangers of methly orals would help to mitigate liver and kidney damage.

It is interesting that the opinion of both the DEA and American Medical Association was that steroids presented minimal risk and damage. This was expressed by both of them in Senate hearings when they originally banned most of the old school anabolics.

Ever compared the statistics of deaths from anabolic steroid use to that of alcohol? methamphetamine? ASPIRIN? likely not as it would not make for sensational news. The media has made such a bullshit soup out of mixing pro sports doping , teen death and anabolic steroids that its laughable.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jen F. Usher, Dillwyn, VA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:15:04 GMT

A Body Builder
I've known, before I switched to PowerLifting tried to get me to take steroids.

My reply, was H"ll No...plus, I stopped him from further training me...!!!

I'm not that selfrightous about knowing who juices or doesn't...Working Out provides the opportunity for Exposure to Riod Use in any GYM WorldWide-tells the story...!!!

Though I don't condone The Use of Roids, to get bigger, stronger, faster-My position is that of: "No Pain, No Gain"...Those of US, that have spent a Lifetime in a Gym, attempting to get bigger, stronger-without The Juice, will tell any Kid reading this, or while working Out in a Gym-the only way to really get Bigger and Stronger is to shock their muscles, into pain from forcing my blood into a particular muscle group-in a 7 Day a Week Workout Plan, alternating muscle groups, i.e., Arms, Legs Back and Shoulders.

Plus, anyone desiring to Life Weights, You Must Eat Good Protein Rich Foods and Drink, Protein Based Smoothes-at least 6 times a Day...!!!

For BodyBuilder's and or PowerLifter's There's NO Short-Cut to The Arnold, Frank Zane, Franko Columbo or for Female Weight Lifter's Life up on stage-displaying The Hard Won Fight results for, more Than Just Trinkets-The Big Bucks...and a Life, Only The Greek Mythological Gods of more Than 2000 years ago-Claimed Only as Their's!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

jdoe- so cal — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:15:56 GMT

elmer fudd, bfe- YOU are the real idiot hear and YOU make me wanna puke. and how is it that you claim nobody on here know what they are talking about. DO YOU?! If you know so much about steroids maybe YOU are on them yourself, and that would make sense because obviously you have no balls & a pathetic excuse for a penis. But just because that's the case don't start on bagging on others saying how dumb they are, and what not. Are you a dr.? do you know for a fact what steroids have the capability of doing? or is it that you are a dermatologist, because you are also claiming that it's a skin disorder. Do you always just pull things out of your ass and run with it??? Or are you trying to excuse your emotional issues with yourself because you, too, are an avid steroid user? TRULY, you are the one who needs to STFU!!!!! your ignorance is showing Elmer Fudd.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Zac, The Place — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:22:36 GMT

Ok theres one part here that makes me really never want to use steroids

"the poor young man’s sperm count had plummeted and his testicles were in a sad little shrunken state."

That would suck, excuse me, balls.
I'm sure his penis wasn't any better.
Theres no point in being muscular if you can't satisfy your woman fellas.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

carol, california — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:29:15 GMT

LD- wow. just because you can look up random facts on steroids doesn't make you smart. do you believe everything you read? are you really that ignorant? it's crazy how people like you pick and choose the pieces you want to use and throw out there like it's fact. do you possibly write for the "national enquirer" or is it that you just oick up any article you see and take it as fact? lame. oh, and i know for a fact the steroids do enhance performance & create rage. I happend to date a sweet, fun- loving guy who used, and he turned into this huge monster with shrunken balls and bad chest and back acne. He also put me in the emergency room because of his roid rage. So please, tell us again how much steroids don't have proven side effects? I experienced it, did you?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

andrew, f-ville, nc — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:39:05 GMT

philly, PA....you are seriously an idiot. steriod use can kill you my cousin died of liver toxicity becuase of steriods. i hate people like you who talk like they know so much. But, steroids do have many good uses too. if monitored, things can be ok. but like many other drugs out there, legal & illegal, they are used to the extreme & ABUSED. that is the problem. it's not an issue of whether it's legal or illegal, the issue is the people who choose to abuse drugs.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Jay R Cincy OH — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 05:29:26 GMT

It's good to see some intelligent return fire on these sensationalized stories. In years past you would only see "Steroids are bad!" At least now with comments on the story pages, both sides of the story can be told.

I agree that steroids should be a legal procedure for those who choose to do so under a DR's guidance. If used properly they can be safe. It IS no different than undergoing cosmetic surgery. Hey, let's be honest, we're all concerned with how we look.

I would love to see doses and comounds used and more detail on this story. I have been around this environment for some time and I have NEVER seen or heard of anything like this before.

People have died from taking vitamins! (All be it way too many in too short of time, or tainted supplies)

Bottom line is there is a lot of data to support that steroids can used safely and effectively. (See Arnold Schwarznegger)
This article pure and simple is written from someone who knows very little about this topic.

I can see next weeks story now..."Fitness guru dies from taking vitamins!"

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

I'm not blind, USA! — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 06:35:17 GMT

the guy doesnt even look the same in pics 2 and 3. Anyhow, this guy had an underlying condition, because steroids do not do this.

SLC is right for the most part, though he made a few misguided statements, the guy from chicago, total dumbass, while you go around making penis jokes know this... IT DOESNT MAKE YOUR DICK SMALLER! need some logic? my guess is yes! so What do you think makes you grow and mature? testosterone (aka steroids) and growth hormone.. what do you think makes your dick grow? yes those two hormones, so you'd think that taking them in large quantities would make everything grow... not shrink. You're an idiot! So while you're talking about everyone elses penis, perhaps you should take another look at yours.. cause i'm sure its lacking. ignorance is the worse part of our culture.

Mike, steroid user, Totally right as well, its a scare tactic,

Andrew wiggen... Youre an idiot. have you ever thought about the definition of abuse? if you've ever been drunk... you've abused alcohol... oh you've been drunk more than once? you're probably an alcoholic. thats what your entire post amounts to.

Steroids hurt more than the user, if you're a guy... and you walked in on another guy, ripped with muscle giving your wife/fiancee/wife the best sex shes ever had... while the guy is telling her how amazing her boobs are.. I bet you'd shoot him... Are you full of rage cause you saw another man hookin up with your wife because she had amazing boobs?

Steroids have side effects if you're predisposed to them. Ever look at the side effects of most drugs taken on a daily basis? liver or kidney disease, suicide, anal leakage, nausea, ulcers, vision problems... Before you talk about steroid side effects which are all manageable, think about yourself and the lifestyle you lead. think about that advil next time you have a headache, or think of the cholesterol when you eat your mcdonalds and sit your obese self on the couch. I went to costco today and I could literally count the number of people who appeared to be of "healthy" weight on my hands, If you're in america, odds are, you're so clueless that you believe anything. do you think pharmaceuticals are meant to make you well? Do you think there will ever be a single pill that allows you to be idle and look good? Are you a lazy american who would rather complain about those who, perhaps, go to extreme measures to look and feel good about themselves (knowing the potential side effects) while you're sitting in front of your tv or computer looking so unattractively obese that Elliot spitzers escort girl wouldnt have sex with you for $1,000,000. think twice before you start talking bad about people who use steriods. And yes they do increase performance to a degree, they DO NOT increase your reaction time to hit more homeruns but if you hit the ball, it will go farther. PlEASE EVERYONE, DO SOME READING BEFORE YOU COMMENT, AND MAKE SURE YOU TALK TO PEOPLE WHO HAVE USED BEFORE YOU MAKE OUTRAGEOUS CLAIMS

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mike, Elizabethtown, PA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:47:57 GMT

Mabey they should ban coffee. If you can't wake up naturally you should just stay in bed or change professions.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

cheryl-simon@comcast.net — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 11:11:37 GMT

Hey, SLC, why don't we just legalize cocaine, pot and herrion why we are at it. Kids are doing that too to get something out of it! What do you think......Why not...in fact, anytime someone decides they want to do a drug to feel or look better... let's just legalize it like we did cigarettes. That didn't seem to harm anyone!
Cher, Chalfont Pa

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

ElSupremo, Mt. Vernon, WA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:41:40 GMT

Does anybody realize that not even the AMA, FDA, or DEA thought steroids should be classified and made "illegal"? There are no medical studies that have shown steroids to be damaging long-term when taken by adults, as directed and in moderation.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

BOOMSHAKER! — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:58:36 GMT

At least they got it right this time, "HE ABUSED STEROIDS"!!! And in his own words he stayed on it for "several months", probably with no time off! AND at "high doses".. these are his words. Anything that is abused will come back to bite you in the A$$. Anything taken or done on moderation can be used and tolerated with good results!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

john doe, seattle, wash — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:38:34 GMT

get big!! o yeah muscle head!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe Pharmacist — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:50:11 GMT

Actually testosterone is a controlled substance that can only be LEGALLY prescribed in the US for replacement of anabolic hormones in patients that are deficient or any other medically legitmate purpose...Use for body building, even if prescribed by a practitioner, is ILLEGAL by federal law. If a doctor prescribes it for this purpose and a pharmacist fills it knowingly pursuant to a prescription by that doctor they would both be violating federal law…just so the matter is clear…thanks...Feel free to look up "The Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 1990 "

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Joe Pharmacist, Indy, Indiana — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:06:13 GMT

To Angie, New Bern, NC...Albuterol is NOT a steroid. It is a beta2-recptor agonist that relaxes constricted muscles in your lungs...you a probably thiking of fluticasone which is a corticosteroid use in the Tx of asthma...which is also not an anabolic steroid, does not build muscle, and has no effect at androgen receptors.....apples to oranges

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Danny, SLO, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:34:50 GMT

I can't believe there are actually people posting on here that would agree with SLC. Steroids are banned from sports because they are performance enhancers, while implants are purely cosmetic and completely reversible. Steroids alter body chemistry, and affect peoples moods and behavior. Ever hear of 'roid rage'?? I've never heard of silicone or saline rage. Your analogy is tragically flawed.

Anyone considering hormone replacement therapy should avoid the mass produced, synthesized crap and look into bio-identical hormones. They are relatively new and going through testing stages, but show a lot of promise without the side effects of traditional synthetic hormones.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

blah@blah.com — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:47:30 GMT

Those pictures are obviously fake and photoshopped. The top pic looks nothing like the bottom two pics and the guy doesn't have anywhere close to the same physique in the bottom two pics. Those scars look like oil burns (if they are even real). There is an obvious splatter pattern, that doesn't happen with acne. This article is a complete fake.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

LJ, San Diego, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 18:21:56 GMT

This type of severe acne is NOT restricted to use of anabolic (body building) steroids.

For years, on and off, I was prescribed corticosteroids (prednisone, cortisone) for my autoimmune disease and inflammatory arthritis. Mostly I would just get a little cystic acne as a side effect.

However, two years ago my prednisone-induced acne worsened significantly and turned into "acne conglobata" similar to what this man has, but mostly on my face.

I have had lots of treatments from dermatologists and a plastic surgery evaluation for scar revision, but the bottom line is that acne conglobata is the more disfiguring type of acne and some scarring will be evident for life, despite treatment.

Yes, this man appears to have abused anabolic steroids, but severe acne can also be triggered by legally-prescribed corticosteroids like prednisone. This is not widely known.

Severe disfiguring acne, regardless of its cause, can lead to embarrassment, depression, anxiety, and isolation. This man needs no further bashing.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Lisa Garfield County Colorado — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:05:30 GMT

Anything can be abused. Steroids when prescribed by a doctor, can be good. Just like plastic surgery, in moderation, can be good. Folks get carried away and then it becomes abuse.

I'm sending this young man's story to the coach at our local high school. Although I don't think it's wide spread, I'm sure steroids are available. If seeing these pictures makes one kid say "No" then that'll be good.

SLC...you find this country hypocritical? I see you're in Utah. The borders just one state south of you...get going if you really don't like it here.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Evelyn — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:07:00 GMT

All you people defending steriod use make me laugh. So silly.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

doug — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:07:38 GMT

not all steroids are illegal people. there's plenty of pill form steroids you can buy online from legit U.S websites

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Terry Wilson — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:21:49 GMT

I'm still pissed that my tax money went to pay court cost over silly ball players using the stuff. I could care less wheather or not any one uses this body builder in a bottle crap or not.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Don, Parker, AZ — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:25:10 GMT

SLC,
I must agree with Me from Cohshy - you are in fact an idiot, and perhaps a dangerous one. Implants are not drugs and do not cause the body to produce chemical changes which in turn cause physiological change. If you use these, I pity you. If you don't, your hypothesis certainly supports the premise that you need to do a bit more research before putting your opinion out for all to laugh at.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

JC, Roid Free in CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:07:39 GMT

LMAO - you sure can tell from the comments who is on the juice and who isn't. Maybe they should have done a piece about steroids effect on temper and reasoning.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Im bored with ur mom — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:22:20 GMT

what many people dont realize is the rarity of this occuring. Yeah, acne is definately a side effect of roid usage, however this instance rampant debilitating acne is not. There were obviously other factors contributing to this, such as prolonging his cycle too long or an incorrect dosage. Which is exactly why steriods are only available through prescription, they're dangerous just like many other prescription drugs. Prescriptions are like a childproof seal on a bottle of vitamins. Theyre ment to protect stupid people from themselves.
Or its a massive gov/pharmaceutical conspiracy hmmmmmmm...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Raj, Baltimore — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:31:18 GMT

SLC is pretty much dead on. Unless you actually want to read up on the subject, I wouldn't criticize him too much.

The media wants to make steroids out to be evil but they neglect the steroids that are used for good which are similar. Here is an example. How many women in this thread use birth control? That's a steroid.

You can give countless examples of how legal drugs harm people just as much if used incorrectly. Unfortunately, there are no big business lobbyists for steroids so everyone becomes convinced they're evil.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Matt Charlotte, NC — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:32:08 GMT

Anyone that actually knows anything about steroids knows that there's far more to this story then just a few months of steroid use.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

ER RN, Alabama — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:52:20 GMT

SLC - You really have a whole lot to learn. You have obviously never worked in an ER and had a 16 year old boy beg you "don't let me die" while he was dying from a massive heart attack secondary to anabolic steroid use. Your comment showed your complete ignorance.
Ron from Chicago is basically right about what women really care about.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

RMG,E.G.,N.Y. — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:09:13 GMT

LEAVE SLC ALONE. HE HAS A RIGHT TO HIS OPINION.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

KEN REECE FERNANDINA BEACH FLORIDA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:13:30 GMT

SLC IN UTAH , SAID IT ALL..

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

KEN REECE FERNANDINA BEACH FLORIDA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:14:38 GMT

SLC IN UTAH , SAID IT ALL..

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Debi, Southern Plains — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:21:16 GMT

Did SLC happen to read the part of the article stating that this case took place in Germany? Can we lay off bashing Americans for just a day or two? Obviously, it's not just Americans who are seeking to change their natural attributes, tyvm.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

SLC Rides the short bus, Cass Lake, MN — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:52:33 GMT

SLC needs a reading comprehension lesson. In his haste to bash America (let me hazard a guess that he/she reflexively votes for one party), he/she ignores the fact that this article is about a young man im DEUTSCHLAND.

Doo. Shbag.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Alicia, Orange Park, FL — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 23:34:23 GMT

Let me tell you something. It doesn't matter if steroids were legally prescribed by a reputable Dr. or not. I dated a man for several years who used steroids that were supposedly "legally" prescribed to him. He had the acne ~ I could deal with that. He had the shrunken testicles ~ I could also deal with that. What I absolutely could not deal with was his "roid rage" and sadistic sexual appetite that was a by-product of the steroids he cycled on and off of. These drugs should absolutely be off-limits to all men and women~~~~especially teenage boys who are only looking to drastically improve their physique. Trust me......it's NOT worth it!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Bob-Chicago — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 01:03:30 GMT

How many of you use caffeine to enhance your performance at work? These guys just take it to a higher extreme.Who cares its not hurting me!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Tim, Iowa — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 01:08:21 GMT

To Gayle: "Did you notice the complete absence of acne on the Olympic athletes this year? How do they do it?"

ITS CALLED HGH!!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

ew, seattle, Wash — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 02:05:22 GMT

Just fyi to everyone out there on the "that's why they're banned bandwagon."

The American Medical Association, DEA, FDA and NIDA NEVER recommended that anabolic steroids be made illegal.

As for the story here, bad things happen to people who don't know what they're dealing with. But that goes for many things in life, not to mention the legal substances we enjoy.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Anonymous, Sacramento, CA — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 02:41:01 GMT

All those who are dissing steroids without any real knowledge on the topic, please stop. Kindly watch this documentary, as it shows at least some balanced viewpoint on the topic.

biggerstrongerfastermovie [dot] com

Really. I'm not a steroid user (yet). I've been working out for 7 years though and have been reading up on steroids for 1 year. I will do a cycle soon in the future, with proper post cycle therapy and a host of ancillaries during and after cycle to help myself. And no steroids are NOT the easy way out, most people on here probably have no idea how disciplined your working out, eating and sleeping needs to be, to gain muscle, even on steroids.

Anyway, long story short, I believe most of us are intelligent enough to at least research the topic independently and with an open mind, before we draw conclusions. If after researching what I have, you still conclude that steroids are *bad*, then I will respect your opinion, but respectfully disagree.

The link above is a start. It will no doubt give you more pointers to consider. Good luck and God bless!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

SLC's Correct — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:38:34 GMT

SLC makes complete sense. It doesn't really matter where in the world this case came from, it was reported on an American news site through the eyes and opinion of an American reporter, Melissa Dahl. I found SLC's argument intelligent and thought out. I could not really continue to read all the comments aimed at him/her because most of them were from trolls.

Before you flame me, I don't use steroids unless they are prescribed by a doctor for a nose or throat infection (i.e. non anabolic nasal treatment for an infection). When I am older if I need a cortisol injection for a swollen/creaky joint to allow me to walk I will let the doctors inject me. As for anabolic steroids, there are hundreds of medically approved/ratified reasons for their use and they are commonly prescribed by Doctors all over the world for people who don't care about muscle or performance or indeed body image to the degree of looking "ripped". Very few of them have issues, because they are monitored by doctors and if the treatment for their condition is found to be causing any ill effects then the doctor can stop treatment immediately. This then gets onto the point made by SLC. If individuals who wanted this treatment for body image issues, and a doctor was available to suggest doses and check for ill effects then this would never have happened.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

hbos366@msn.com — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:31:23 GMT

Acne? It sure looks like two squirts of spray-on stuff!

H.Bos
Perth W A

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

David — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:00:38 GMT

Two words: Arnold Schwarzenegger. There is a difference between use and abuse. To say steroids should remain illegal and whatnot... think about what alcohol does to some people. There are thoose alcoholics who lose everything and end up in and out of jail their entire lives. Then there are professionals who have a cocktail every Friday. These scare stories are ridiculous and focus only what happens to a tiny fraction of users. Think about the ill effects of fast food... I'm actually underweight with a better than average heart while eating it fairly regularly, however, there are people that eat it less and it can be attributed to their obesity and heart attacks. Hell, you could write a story about how fast food doesn't have ill effects at all based no me.... one horror story is simply that... ONE horror story.... out of how many stories?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Judy, Albany, NY — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:27:48 GMT

I agree that the derisive tone of this article was unnecessary. This poor man has to live with permanent scarring because he wasn't satisfied with his natural body during a probably angst-ridden phase of his life (adolescence). Things might have been different if he had received proper education about the dangers of steroid use (yes, it IS dangerous to put a hormone into your body in an unregulated fashion).

As for me, give me a mentally stable man who's happy with himself any day over a physically beautiful guy with no self-esteem! That's the kind of man who's capable of treating you and others well and is worthy of respect. Not to say that we don't all struggle with our body image or that we shouldn't try to look our best, but this cultural obsession with looks has gotten far out of hand. Looks are just one part of a person!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

jeffNAtll — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 17:46:53 GMT

As a male over 40 I am currently taking steriods and HGH (HRT) and have blood work and all lab test done on a regular basis. At 38 my libido decreased, depression kicked in and recovery from workouts took 4-ever and I was more prone to injury and you name it all, everything was going downhill. I have been on HRT for 6yrs and have a 29yr old girlfriend and the envy of my co-workers and feel 20+ again. My quality of life has never been better and let me ask you why a hormone (testosterone) is considered a scheduled III controlled substance classified right up there with mind altering drugs and estrogen isn't. There both sex hormones? Another example of good ole' American Hipocracy. steriods are legal OTC in most countries and why don't we hear about massive roid rage and deaths in those countries caused by this so called evil MALE HORMONE?

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Anthony, Chicago, IL — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:57:22 GMT

I love how all of these idiots jump on the Jock of this SLC without him providing one SHRED of evidence.

God, I love lemmings...

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

LONESTAR38@SHAW.CA — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 21:18:09 GMT

why do you want to be more,than you are?
I'LL BET YOU,THERE IS A GIRL WHAT WANTS YOU VERRY BADLY. I TRYED TO BE MORE 55 YEARS AGO- WE ARE STILL TOGETHER,AFTER 2 BOYS AND 2 GIRLS AND RAYSED ONE MORE, so,what's you'r PROBLEM??
I JUST SAY, WE CAN NOT ALL BE ARNOLD SCHWARZENAGER !SO-BE YOU'R SELVE.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

james, east texas — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 21:28:54 GMT

Yep, I know lots of juicers, but they are smart and cycle. In fact, steroid users are perhaps the most biochemically educated guys i know. this guy was stupid, stacking and not cycling. too bad. and yes, steroids are legal in the US for just a few conditions (hypogonadism, anemia) but it is not legal or ethical for a doctor to prescribe them purely for anabolic gain. All drugs should be legal and we would have far less issues and stigamata. Not to mention a huge tax base we are not getting. Funny that the two most addictive, dangerous drugs out there are perfectly legal and regulated (alcohol and nicotine). It's all money and we know it. Stop the holier than though crap and face it. Kids will do them regardless and education and open mindedness will save more lives than any witchhunts and misinformation campaigns that seem to be the preferred method nowadays.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

clyde Dilg, Hillsboro Oregon — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 01:35:05 GMT

I have competed as an endurance athlete for 25 yrs. as a marathoner and triathlete. Competing nationally and internationally; most people will be surprised to discover how many athletes (male and female)use steroids to as a short cut to success. They are so physically and psychologically addicting that once on them it takes a life altering event to get one off them. This individual will unfortunately suffer even more later on in his life. This is just the beginning for him.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

info@op4health.com — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:24:37 GMT

Personally, I have been on steroids (cortisone) for over 40 years ... and it is the PITS to have to rely on it for life!
If anyone wants to trade my steroids for a normal happy body ...
MaggiJones, WA

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Tang — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 18:21:12 GMT

The before and after pix look totally different. The after pictures don't even look like there is any muscularity at all. This leads me to believe it's a BS story.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

chubby, madison, wi — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 02:44:36 GMT

so SLC was off-base on the "america" comments, why harp on that? he was right about everything else, and i'm sure the comments can apply to other countries as well.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

JB2, Tampa, FL — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 03:54:40 GMT

Since when do steroids shrink one's penis? Folks get a clue. SLC is right.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Old Guy — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 12:50:18 GMT

The truth is Steroids properly administered benefit many men. Also millions of older, disabled and injured men would be able to improve their lives and recover from injuries with moderate Steroid Use..with the appropriate long or short term use.

Therein lies the problem.. many medications would fall by the wayside to the powerful and effective Testosterone.. Billions of dollars in Quack Therapy for for pain, swelling, some forms of arthritis would suddenly be lost.

One women physician wrote a while back in opposition to Testosterone therapy..to paraphrase.

Who wants a bunch of men running around being ...men?

The Insurance industry does all it can to avoid paying for the might "T" by including men who are already suffering the effects of low tersterone in their establishment of "Baselines" for it's prescription. Pushing half baked lies about Testosterone risks... by emphasising worst case abuse scenarios like this young man.. and ignoring the crippled soldier nearly unable to walk without multiple Doctor visits and 6 pain medications injected into his legs a month who turns around with a simple and inexpensive regime of Testosterone injections. Is then able to walk and regain his mobility and overall physical health..

Men being men.... healthy and strong.. Truly benifiting my medical science..

We cannot have that now can we?

W

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Old Guy — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 12:52:01 GMT

The truth is Steroids properly administered benefit many men. Also millions of older, disabled and injured men would be able to improve their lives and recover from injuries with moderate Steroid Use..with the appropriate long or short term use.

Therein lies the problem.. many medications would fall by the wayside to the powerful and effective Testosterone.. Billions of dollars in Quack Therapy for for pain, swelling, some forms of arthritis would suddenly be lost.

One women physician wrote a while back in opposition to Testosterone therapy..to paraphrase.

Who wants a bunch of men running around being ...men?

The Insurance industry does all it can to avoid paying for the might "T" by including men who are already suffering the effects of low testosterone in their establishment of "Baselines" for it's prescription. Pushing half baked lies about Testosterone risks... by emphasizing worst case abuse scenarios like this young man.. and ignoring the crippled soldier nearly unable to walk without multiple Doctor visits and 6 pain medications injected into his legs a month who turns around with a simple and inexpensive regime of Testosterone injections. Is then able to walk and regain his mobility and overall physical health..

Men being men.... healthy and strong.. Truly benefiting my medical science..

We cannot have that now can we?

W

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Patrick, California — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 17:16:11 GMT

I don't know about you guys but to me the pictures don't look like there from the same person.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

all those stupid people who yell online — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 18:51:13 GMT

its obvious he abused the drugs. but there are legitimate uses for steroids. I bet if he had used much less and was did research about what he was taking the adverse affects would have been lessend

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Mrs. ELois Poole-Clayton, Chicago, Illinois — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 23:17:03 GMT

What is wrong with you? PLEASE, STOP! Get the help you need to kick your addition and just exercise and lift weights! It will take a little time to readjust to a normal person, but look at this this way, YOU'LL BE ALIVE!
PS: I'm a Certified Medical Coder, MT, CADC, Poet, writer and God loves you and so do I!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

HonestJohn — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 23:28:36 GMT

This didn't just happen overnight, he continued to use steroids inspite of the evidence of his eyes. There is more here than simple drug abuse and goes to self esteem issues.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Karen orange county, California — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 01:06:03 GMT

i was prescribed steroids as a teenager for an imflammatory condition. I too experienced this type of acne on my face which left lifelong scars. I am glad at least that I am a woman and make-up minimizes the appearance of the scars somewhat. Again, let me emphasize that they were prescribed by a Doctor-a specialist.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Tess, Enid, OK — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 01:47:10 GMT

It seems Chris from Oakland California is the only one that noticed the opinions the writer seemed to have slipped in this article. Not all the facts were reported which makes the reporter seem just as dumb as the guy that did the steroids. Im sitting here amazed at all the comments from people in here that dont have a clue. And the other people in here who are busy arguing with those people that dont have a clue. That makes you look just as dumb as they are. The user of the steroids was sorely uneducated and the fact that he has man boobs is proof of that. Legal or illegal he did not educate himself before he decided to do it. In a matter of minutes on the same computer im sure he used to acquire those steroids he could have found out testosterone will convert to estrogen. That steroids can cause acne. And that yes, his testicles can shrivel and he could lose his hair, etc. etc. he could also have found out what to do to prevent these things which is apparent he did not. I dont agree or disagree that steroid use is bad. But as an adult, it is my choice what i choose to put in my body. Not government. Shame on the reporter for not reporting all the facts yet putting her opinions in this article.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Angel, akron, ohio — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 01:52:16 GMT

Im wondering why he waited so long to get medical help for that disgusting acne. It's not like he could parade around without his shirt, he would turn peoples stomachs.... I hope he enjoyed his manliness while it lasted.

I think most guys that build their bodies up with excessive use are closet gays and doing it for other men to admire their bodies.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

P Galveston, New York — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 03:48:44 GMT

my boyfriend and i did infinite extensive thorough research to help him do a good cycle of roid use combined with training nutrition and watching for side effects. we thought we were so smart until he almost killed us both during his first roid rage while driving. We were lucky to walk away from the accident, and he couldn't have ever believed he could ever be that violent. that's when we scrapped his plans to "be big" and dropped the drug use. I'm no writer either, but the pix say a lot, so your point was taken even if opinions were given rather than facts about the german kid. Poor guy, vanity can be punishing.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Kcpaull, Fort Mill, SC — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:30:43 GMT

I see it this way, if people are vain enough to take any drugs or use implants and surgery to look better, they are going to abuse something no matter what. At least when they abuse steroids it make it harder for them to breed and therefor reduce the collective IQ of the human race.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Steve A. NYC NY — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 06:47:11 GMT

Well, he "was" totally ripped for a brief moment in time. Now, he looks just like the rest of us...only with scars!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

JJB, S. Carolina — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 16:16:29 GMT

To whoever it was that said the pics look different, I'm sure it took MONTHS to clear up the infection and get from pic A to pic C. In that time, without the help of steriod usage, and probably minimal continued weight lifting on his part, he would quickly lose whatever muscle definition he had.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Carl III — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:13:41 GMT

Ouch and holy crududles. That is something ruthless. But there are other stories out there that are similar if not worse. I suggest you do it all naturall and then find out what you can do from a doctor in order to get bigger without the problems associated with steriods. < Now thats a run on sentence.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

jon, orlando, fl — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 02:47:48 GMT

in all honesty...why couldn't he just get fit the honest way?

now he has to live with this for the rest of his life, and people don't get it...steroids merely puff up your muscles! you don't gain 'extra' muscle mass. you just get bulkier, and most people can tell that you're on them anyway.

seriously, why not just get some supplements from a vitamin shop, work out, and get fit the right way.

it's not that hard.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

rich marino new jersey — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:30:06 GMT

sideeffects do take place...but most times that not true...i love how it helped me

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Charlie, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:38:13 GMT

Please. This story is so fake. As if anyone would wait for the problem to be this bad before doing something about it. Don't believe the propaganda. And how about those photos?

And this writing — "his testicles were in a sad little shrunken state" — you call that journalism? Give me a break. Take this fake story down and go take Newswriting 101.

Doctors prescribe steroids on a regular basis to men over 40 to help with their bone mass, general health and libido. They also prescribe steroids to any man with low testosterone. In addition, people with HIV-related wasting are prescribed steroids. Big Pharma just wants the steroid pie all to themselves.

What the world needs is more education about steroids, NOT more propaganda from an uninformed wannabe do-gooder.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

James Harris — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:49:48 GMT

I am a twenty five year old male living in Wales (UK) I was put on long term steroids as a temporary cure for my oral crones disease, at the time I was able to walk eat and talk without any pain, the side effects however are horrendous, severe irritability, small testicles and low sperm count, the moon face and Osteoporosis on top of that in my lumbar spine, neck shoulders and left foot. I cannot see why any young man would want to risk his health and possibly his kids's health for a quick solution to muscle's. Surley it is more satisfying for a young man to achieve the perfect body (if it exists) than to inject a drug that, even scientist's do not know fully the long term effects.

Anyway I hope the lad in the picture gets better, its not nice to live with an illness especially if it is on view to the world..

James

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Chele, Aurora, CO — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:25:19 GMT

dangerous stuff...try the "natural way" to build your body....much wiser & healthier for ya

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Victoria, Orlando, Florida!!! — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 02:13:49 GMT

WOW! Its crazy what people will go through just to make other people think they look good!!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Try exercise, SF — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 16:38:32 GMT

My uncle was a competitive bodybuilder & career police officer who used steroids for years and years and never had acne...
Too bad they did incur a massive stroke that resulted in a lot of necrotic brain tissue being scraped out of his head.
Hey Todd in Glendale, undoubtedly the ladies won't mind your slurred speech or lack of facial muscle control because they'll be admiring the wasted remains of muscle and your smooth skin!

ps. steroids ARE legal, controlled, and medically accessible, morons. Chances are pretty good you've even been prescribed them at some point. Pay attention to what you put in your body!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Lance, KS — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:39:20 GMT

This is totally a fake picture and total bs by the author. Look at the first pic where he is obvisouly on Roids and his acne is not bad at all. Now in the second pic the acne is worse and he has no muscle deffination at all. Almost as if he hadn't been lifting for a yr or two. The acne is always worse when on AAS then when off. It looks as if he were burned with something or splashed w/grease.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Wrenn — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:58:35 GMT

B said "Problem is that other effects of steroids, such as heart or joint problems, are not as clearly visible. This is why steroids remain illegal. "

For body building, I agree. You're actually just damaging your body in the long run. Heart problems, joint problems, bone problems. I have to take catabolic steriods on a regular basis, though thankfully only when I have problems. Yes, catabolic are the opposite as far as muscle mass goes (than anabolic), but the litany of side effects are similar, long term. They, both anabolic and catabolic, age your body.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

mary/NY/US — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 02:03:52 GMT

dear friend,
the very best of the season to you and your
loved one.
how are you today??.........hope you are fine.
am Maryam from Weat Aficra. i am 30 yrs old, am
black in
complexion, i like playing games like chess and
poker........i love clubbing too.
am simple,down to earth,very hardworking and sincere
person.
i will want to have you as my friend.........cos
friendship is the
basis of love
i hope to hear from you soonest.(aje_n@yahoo.com)
MARYAM

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

phossessy — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:07:06 GMT

Very interesting blog. Do you have any suggestions about my virtuous chemist I have read a good joke in internet ;) How can you tell if a planet is married? It has a ring around it. I wanna to have a good time, Lets talk about something interesting!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

valerie, Mass — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:58:04 GMT

Sounds like MRSA to me. Possibly caught inm the GYM!!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

bigman, London, UK — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:11:44 GMT

BODYBUILDER

A male or female who engages in bodybuilding, which is the process of developing increased amount of muscle fiber while minimizing body fat levels. These two processes are usually done separately, as they both require either a large amount of strength training or a large amount of cardiovascular exercise.

Attitudes towards bodybuilders generally fall into two categories: awe or envy.

It has been a primal instinct in men to have qualities of muscle size and strength, because for many years, that is how men have protected their woman and protected your belongings from other men and beasts. If a man had strong physical qualities, the man had the ability to defeat weaker men in fights and take his woman and his goods. Though in today's modern, civilized society this generally does not happen, the fact remains that a bodybuilder's physique sends out very strong messages of masculinity to other men, which they subconsciously find threatening. When people see bodybuilders they also see dedication, seriousness, size and strength.

Women also find muscles and some size a positive trait in their men, as it again ensures that they are with someone that can protect them. This again is a deep-seated subconscious feeling and is not overt. In the animal kingdom it is about the strongest male that they want to mate with, so that the off-springs that they produce have the best possible genes. Though many studies have proven that women don't really prefer very big muscular men, studies have also proven that men always presume that women would find them more attractive if they (men) had more size than what they have.

It is a deep seated desire in men to be strong and when they see someone that is stronger, the easiest and only possible way to bring him down becomes by way of non-direct confrontation. This explains why one sees a lot of myths perpetuated about bodybuilders like bodybuilding makes your penis small; bodybuilders only eat, sleep and train; bodybuilders cant have proper sex; bodybuilders die young; bodybuilding is bad for ones heart, etc. Past experiences or situations where one sees big muscular men in positions demanding physical strength (Bouncers in night clubs, debt-collectors, etc.) can magnify these feelings of weakness and insecurity. Past childhood experiences of bullying by bigger boys in school can also be responsible for this.

Bodybuilders also seem to be enjoying their "own world" of training in the gym, and this is also annoying to others who see a bodybuilder as a kind of "at peace with himself human". Not many activities or professions give this kind of a feeling to the man that doesn't train. A bodybuilder is also at ease with his body and usually doesn't mind showing his body to others, and certainly doesn't feel awkward admiring his own. Every human being (man or woman) that looks in a mirror wishes to see himself or herself in good form, but many are not satisfied. People, who are extremely uncomfortable with the way they look, and do not have the motivation to change it, tend to find the bodybuilder's fascination and confidence with his own body unnerving. The idea of someone that does enjoy his own reflection in a mirror creates envious feelings towards them.

Again, there are two types of reactions that are the outcome of seeing a bodybuilder. One is of awe and one is of envy. When a man sees a bodybuilder he is either going to be openly impressed with the size (awe), or will show envy due to his own inborn, deep-seated insecurity (envy).

Despite negative attitudes towards the sport exhibited by those with self-esteem issues, many people have much respect for bodybuilders (esp. the more professional) and hold them in high regard due to their incredible passion, dedication, commitment, and the hard work they put in day in and day out.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

needmoreinfo — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 23:45:29 GMT

There are cases of ance like this where the patient didn't take steriods. Just because this patient took steriods doesn't prove a cause and effect.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Blank, Toronto Canada — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 12:53:36 GMT

<i>He’d been using two types of anabolic steroids twice a week for several months</i>

There you have it. The use of more than one steroid at a time isn't necessarily a problem (it's called "stacking" and is common practice) but using gear for several months running is just plain stupid. Even the other gym rats would have told him that, and if he was under a doctor's supervision he should have been told in no uncertain terms.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

blank, Toronto Canada — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 13:02:23 GMT

For those posters who have commented that steroid use is somehow "cheating" you might want to define that term.

When does taking a drug of some sort (natural or otherwise) turn from simple supplementation to cheating.

Vitamin pills? You can argue they're natural but not in the dosages that many (most?) people take and definitely not in the dosages that competitive athletes use. How about protein powder? One scoop of many of the modern versions contains more high quality protein that most people could eat in a day. Creatine? It occurs naturally in many foods but you'd have to eat several pounds of beef to come close to the amount that is found in a single tablespoon of the powder that you find in health food stores. Oxygen? How about sleeping in an oxygen tent? Increasing your red blood cell count? Depends how? Iron supplements? Vitamin E? Blood doping?

Where do you draw the line? What's simply being "healthy" and training hard and what's "cheating"?

For that matter, in the 50's amateur athletes used to complain that their competitors "cheated" because they trained during the week.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Dr. George Franz MN — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 07:49:14 GMT

Funny, alcohol IS legal and more people die in one day than ALL cases EVER from steroids. Nuff said, you damn sheltered, non-informed, hypocrital "experts" on anabolic usage.

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Detroit, City, MI — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 04:15:42 GMT

he probably took to much to fast and was abusing it..aslo he probably just ignored the early symptoms of this acne. Thats why it got so bad, he didnt just wake up with that shit on his chest. Doc could have gave him accutane to keep the acne at bay. Steroids will not hurt you, if taken correctly!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

dima, toronto, ont. — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 21:28:30 GMT

everything is fine in moderation. The guy was abusing them, just don't abuse them!

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Matt L. New york — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:36:15 GMT

at ron from Chicago: first of all a person who takes steroids, his penis does not shrink only his balls which makes him think that he has a bigger penis.
..............................................

and people come on you actually think this will scar him for life? he'll just get a plastic surgery, and will probably continue doing the same stupid things he has done till now.

and for all of you who dont know this you can buy shots of steroids from your local pharmacy for like $25, obviously it doesn't make it illegal. plus this dumbass used it in high dosages 2 times a week for a couple of months retard.

its like taking a pill with alcohol its not illegal but its recommended not to be done because it can kill you.

the lesson in life in this case is that if you want something do it the right way and not the quick and easy way because if there ain't no pain there ain't no gain.

funny thing is now he's in pain but still no gain that moron. lol (laugh out loud).

Steroid abuse scars a young muscle man for life

Doe John Eats John Deere, Land of the Free, Nevada — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 01:47:38 GMT

JHN, Cali:
Uh...JHN...pretty much 'no' to everything you said.