Testosterone

Testosterone is best known as a male sex hormone. It plays a key role in the development of male sex organs and sexual characteristics. Women also have testosterone, but far less than men.

Testosterone is a steroid hormone that is mainly produced in the body by the testicles and ovaries. Anabolic steroids are synthetically produced forms of testosterone.

Bodybuilders, and other athletes too, use anabolic steroids to enhance their performance. Steroids promote muscle development and strengthen bones, but they can have serious side effects, such as heart failure, liver tumours, breast development (in men), acne and impotence. Doping comes at a price.