Anabolic steroids are the controversial drugs, because of the side effects associated with them. The severe side effects and dangerous consequences of the use of anabolic steroids have made these drugs stand among the line of controlled substances and drugs. It is illegal to use, keep, and distribute anabolic steroids without doctors’ prescription in the United States. There are a number of anabolic steroids that have been literally disapproved by the U.S. FDA. Canada and various other countries have strict policies on anabolic steroids.
In the sports arena, several sports agencies, such as International Olympic Committee, National Collegiate Athletic Association and many professional sports leagues including the Major League Baseball, National Basketball Association, National Football League, and National Hockey League, have illegalized the steroid use by sports persons.
This has virtually contributed to the development of illicit market of anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids are often sold illegally at gyms and illegal pharmacies. Anabolic steroids are often slanged as Arnolds, Gym Candies, Juices, Pumpers, Stackers, and Weight Trainers by the illicit steroid users and steroid sellers.
Often, anabolic steroids are smuggled illegally. They are commonly smuggled into the United States and Canada from Mexico and European countries. In these countries, people do not require a prescription for the purchase of steroids, which makes it rather easier to smuggle steroids. Additionally, steroids are also illegally diverted from U.S. pharmacies or synthesized in clandestine laboratories.
However, internet is the most common source of obtaining steroids illegally. There are numerous online pharmacies selling anabolic steroids online. There are numerous online steroid stores selling anabolic steroids without prescriptions. However, online anabolic steroid shopping comes under importation of anabolic steroids, which is illegal in the United States.
Seeing the growing black market, increasing abuse of anabolic steroids, and the possibility of harmful long-term effects of steroid use, the U.S. Congress passed the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) in 1991. The legislation placed anabolic steroids in the category of Schedule III drugs. Thus, in the United States, if someone possesses or sells anabolic steroids without a valid prescription, the person commits a federal crime, which can invite punishment or penalty to the person. Some States have implemented additional fines and penalties for illegal use of anabolic steroids.