You've heard about them on the news. You've heard about them at the gym. They are called "steroids," and they are growing in popularity with a new wave of sports stars. The problem is that the drugs can prove to be dangerous if not taken properly according to a doctor's prescription.

Some slang terms associated with steroid use include:

• Roid rages: Uncontrolled outbursts of anger, frustration or combativeness that may result from using anabolic steroids.
• Shotgunning: Taking steroids on an inconsistent basis.
• Stacking: Using a combination of two or more anabolic steroids.

Before You Risk It...

Get the facts. Doctors prescribe steroids for specific medical conditions. They are only safe when doctors monitor their use.

Know the risks. Illegal steroids are usually made overseas and smuggled into the United States or are made in underground labs in this country. They pose greater health risks because they are not regulated by the government and may not be pure or labeled correctly.

Look around you. The majority of teens aren't using steroids. Among teenage males, were most steroid use is concentrated, past year use was reported at 2.2 percent of 8th graders,3.6 percent of 10th graders, and 2.5 percent of 12th graders.

Know the Signs...

How can you tell if a friend is abusing steroids? Sometimes it's hard to tell. But there are signs you can look for. If your friend has one or more of the following warning signs, he or she may be abusing steroids:

For Guys

• Baldness
• Development of breasts
• Impotence

For Girls

• Growth of facial hair
• Deepened voice
• Breast reduction

For Both

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• Swelling of feet or ankles
• Aching joints
• Bad breath
• Mood swings
• Nervousness
• Trembling