With all the recent reports in the news of steroids use in Major League Baseball and other professional sports, The NA Blog felt it important to remind the public of the addictive qualities of Steroids.

The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has reported that the number of steroid users that become addicted is undetermined. The criterion to be qualified as a steroids addict includes having built a tolerance, compulsive use of the drug regardless of its negative consequences, and withdrawal symptoms once consumption has stopped. Withdrawal symptoms from cessation of steroids use also includes depression that can last several months.

The addictive quality of steroids may explain why MLB baseball players continue its use, in spite of the fact that their athletic career is being put at risk.

For those seeking treatment, NIDA lists some options, including supportive and behavioral therapy, as well as medications that help restore the natural balance of hormones in the individual.