Anabolic steroids, also known as Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS), build muscle and bone mass by stimulating the body’s cells to produce more tissue, particularly in the muscles. They allow athletes to train harder for longer periods of time, leading to abnormal muscle growth. The most common forms of anabolic steroids include:
- Testosterone
- Dihydrotestosterone
- Androstenedione (Andro)
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
- Clostebol
- Nandrolone
Side Effects of Steroids
Anabolic steroids allow people to build muscle they wouldn’t normally be able to build. But their effects are not one hundred percent positive. Steroids emulate the effects of hormones. Because of this, those who use steroids experience increased hormonal growth and side-effects. Some of the more adverse effects include:
- Liver damage
- Development of male breast tissue
- Acne
- Increased aggression
- High blood pressure
- Jaundice
- Loss of hair and baldness
- Increased gum growth
Due to the nature of the drugs and the possibility of both abuse and unsafe side effects, Minnesota considers anabolic steroids to be a schedule III controlled substance. While not viewed as seriously by the law as substances like meth and heroin, the state can still place very harsh penalties on someone caught selling, distributing or in possession of illegal anabolic steroids. Under Minnesota law, someone caught with illegal anabolic steroids with the intent to sell would face fourth degree controlled substance possession charges, which carry up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $100,000. Needless to say, a conviction could change your life forever, which is why it’s so important to consult with a lawyer if you are facing charges for possession of anabolic steroids.
Edina Drug Lawyer
Due to the fact that they are outlawed in the United States, anabolic steroids are now largely produced in Eastern European countries and illegally imported to America for sale. The biggest steroid consumers are athletes. Consequently, most illicit steroid trafficking occurs at gyms or other workout facilities.
Anabolic steroids are illegal under both Minnesota and federal laws, which means an offender may be prosecuted under either jurisdiction. The agency responsible for your arrest and the seriousness of your charge dictates the court in which your case will be prosecuted. Whether you are charged with a federal or state drug violation, a seasoned drug defense lawyer can review your case and determine the best strategy for defense.
At Appelman Law Firm, we’ve helped countless clients navigate their drug charges, and we can do the same for you if you end up mixed up with anabolic steroids. As you can see, the penalties can be extreme, which is why you need a lawyer on your side who can help you achieve the best results possible when your back is up against the wall. For more information or for help with your drug charges, give Avery and the team a call today at (952) 224-2277.
