What is an anabolic steroid?

• A. A device used for defibrillation
• B. A virus that attacks the liver
• C. A synthetic variant of the male hormone testosterone that mimics some of its effects.
• D. A drug that slows the central nervous system

Answer: (C)

Anabolic steroids are synthetic variants of the male hormone testosterone that mimic some of its effects. They’re designed to boost muscle growth by increasing protein synthesis in muscle cells, which helps build lean mass and strength. While they can be prescribed for certain medical conditions, many people misuse them to enhance athletic performance or physique. That’s why this description best matches an anabolic steroid. It’s not a device used for defibrillation, not a liver-attacking virus, and not a drug that slows the central nervous system, all of which describe different types of substances.