What are steroids? Give three examples of steroids used as drugs.

Organic compounds are essentially the chemicals of life, composing the structure and function of every living cell. They contain carbon atoms that are covalently bonded to other elements like hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. A distinctive characteristic of organic compounds is their ability to form long chains and complex structures, allowing for the vast diversity of organic matter found in nature and synthetic materials.

For instance, take the structure of steroids. They are organic compounds and their core is comprised of seventeen carbon atoms connected into four fused rings: three six-membered and one five-membered ring. This structure is not only unique but also serves as the foundation for the steroid family of compounds, which includes sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen, vitamins like vitamin D, as well as cholesterol, a vital component of cell membranes.

Understanding this framework helps students grasp why steroids can have such varied functions in biology and medicine—from hormones that regulate body functions to medications that treat a plethora of conditions.

Corticosteroids are a category of steroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex. However, they can also be synthetically manufactured as medication. These compounds play an essential role in regulating inflammation and immune system responses.

Medications like Prednisone and Dexamethasone mimic the effects of naturally occurring corticosteroids and are used to treat a wide range of conditions. They are anti-inflammatory and can suppress the immune system, making them useful in treating autoimmune diseases, allergies, and asthma. Dexamethasone, in particular, is known for its potent effects and is used in situations that require strong anti-inflammatory action, such as severe allergies or flare-ups of chronic conditions.

Understanding these medications' roles provides insight into their significance in the treatment process. They are not without side effects, however, which is why their use is carefully calibrated by healthcare providers.

Anabolic steroids, also known simply as anabolics, are a synthetic form of testosterone, a hormone that plays a key part in the development of male reproductive tissues as well as secondary sexual characteristics. These steroids promote an increase in muscle mass and physical strength, making them attractive not only for medical uses but unfortunately also for performance enhancement among athletes.

Oxandrolone is one such anabolic steroid used under medical supervision to help promote weight gain after surgery, chronic infections, or severe trauma, and to support patients with disorders that lead to muscle loss. Unlike corticosteroids, anabolics are known for their potential abuse, leading to adverse effects on mental and physical health, particularly when used without medical supervision.

By understanding how anabolic steroids function within the body, students can better comprehend both their therapeutic potential and the risks associated with their misuse. It is crucial that they recognize the important distinction between medically supervised treatment and unsupervised use.