Steroids: Are They Legal?

If you’re getting serious about fitness or bodybuilding, you’ve probably been tempted by steroids. These powerful substances can deliver massive muscle gains and enhanced strength, but the big question lingers: are they legal?

As many people discover when researching steroids, the legality of them is complicated. Below we’ll take a deeper look into the laws surrounding steroids and whether you should use them.

What are steroids and what are they used for?

Let’s start by taking a look at exactly what steroids are - specifically anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). These drugs are synthetic versions of testosterone (the hormone that drives muscle growth, bone density and sex drive). They have many lifesaving medical applications including correcting hormone deficiencies, combating muscle-wasting diseases like HIV and helping to heal injuries. 

Many athletes and gym-goers have also found alternative uses for them. It turns out they are also extremely effective at helping to aid muscle growth, enhance workout performance and reduce recovery time. However, usage can come with potential side effects like acne, hair loss, ‘roid rage’ or even infertility. As a result, some medical professionals advise against using them. Despite this, their usage in the fitness world remains incredibly common. 

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Are they legal in the UK?

The rules for anabolic steroid use in the UK are not entirely straightforward and many fitness enthusiasts are caught out. They are categorised as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. However, this does not mean they are wholly illegal:

• It’s legal to possess steroids if they’re for your own use. There is no charge for having them at home or carrying them in your gym bag.

• Supplying and selling them is a different matter. You can be fined or even face prison time for dealing or manufacturing them. 

• Importing steroids in small amounts for personal use is legal. There are also ways to legally be prescribed steroids. Buying steroids from underground local sources however is illegal.

• There is no law against using steroids for bodybuilding or fitness gains. However, you will not be allowed to compete in sports events on steroids as they are disallowed under the UK Anti-Doping Ban. Some competitions do not test participants, but many bigger sports events do carry out testing, and there have been many stories of athletes being suspended or banned for testing positive for steroids.

How does legality vary around the world?

Steroid laws aren’t universal. Some countries are much stricter than the UK, while others have more relaxed laws:

• In the US, they’re a Schedule III controlled substance, and possession without a prescription is a federal crime. Buying and selling carry even stricter penalties.

• You can buy steroids online in Canada, but similarly need a prescription. 

• Australia also requires a doctor’s script to purchase steroids and has heavy penalties for illegal possession or selling.

• In Mexico, steroids may be available over the counter in some pharmacies without a prescription.

• Thailand similarly allows steroids to be bought freely without a prescription. 

Make sure to always buy from trusted sources as black market steroids can be dangerous. Remember that steroids can have side effects and that there are many other ways to achieve fitness and bodybuilding results.