Anabolic steroids may be beneficial for patients with muscle wasting illnesses but for those who have no illness whatsoever, anabolic steroids may pose greater risks, heart attack and liver damage.

A study conducted by the San Francisco VA Medical Center, led by Carl Grunfeld, MD, chief of metabolism and endocrine sections, proves that anabolic steroids use may have serious effects to its user.

The study involved HIV-positive men with associated weight loss. During the early weeks of the study, the men received random doses of anabolic steroids in varying amounts. The doses were given in 20, 40 or 80 milligrams of oxandrolone or a placebo.

Within the first few weeks, researchers noted a decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or commonly known as the good cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the culprit for fat build-up in an artery, was shown to increase significantly. According to Grunfeld, these results show a predisposing risk for heart attacks. A dose of 20 mg of anabolic steroids can increase the risk to 58%. A two-fold dose could also double the risk, and a three-fold dose could triple the risk.

Meanwhile, liver toxicity in grade III or IV levels were also seen among anabolic steroids users. I However, researchers concluded that anabolic steroids taken in low doses by patients with muscle wasting could still produce greater benefits and could outweigh the potential risks that go with it.

According to Eurekalert:

Toxic effects seen after only 12 weeks – could harm athletes who take steroids for performance

Anabolic steroid use causes decreased levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol, increased levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol, and serious liver toxicity within 12 weeks, according to a study that measured the effects of anabolic steroids on men with HIV wasting disease.