Steroid Withdrawal: Symptoms and Treatment

The new world is fitness-crazy and for sure, Steroids are an easier and quicker way to lose weight and gain muscles, but it comes at a price. Steroids are merely testosterone which is a form of sex hormone in male bodies. All steroids UK, USA, or anywhere in the world come with a statutory warning regarding addiction, printed on the packaging.

But if you abuse the drug, the aftermath can be disastrous. Regular and long-term consumption can easily result in dependence and addiction. Testosterone is one of the easiest drugs to get addicted to, hence the withdrawal symptoms can be pretty severe, depending on the amount and duration of your consumption.

How Can You Know You Are Addicted?

It’s not easy to notice the addiction while you are taking regular doses of Steroids. Because withdrawal symptoms are slightly different than the side effects. Many people confuse side-effects with withdrawal but they both have different effects on the human body. 

As I said, it’s easy to form a habit and dependency with months of regular use of most steroids. But if you missed your dose and are craving it, these are danger signs. Also, the common withdrawal symptoms are not far from what a normal human being is likely to experience in daily life such as headaches, mood swings, etc.

Here are some of the most common Steroid withdrawal symptoms:

• Anxiety and depression which can lead to unexpected mood swings.
  
• Serious cravings for the drug.
  
• Occasional headaches in the different parts of the head.
  
• Frequent muscle pain and joint pain.
  
• May form sleeping disorders
  
• No/less appetite
  
• Constant fatigue
  
• Vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea
  
• Blood-pressure fluctuation and dizziness.   

Steroid Withdrawal: Treatment 

One of the most common questions is – Is steroid withdrawal treatable? The answer is yes, but it largely depends on the duration of the consumption and willpower of the addict. Yes, one can always start and try to quit the drug on its own but some withdrawal effects can be tricky to deal with. 

Most people take steroids to increase performance and build muscles and this develops a sense of confidence in them. It motivates them to abuse the drug to achieve the results quicker. So if you are able to control your urge to take another dose, that’s a good sign, otherwise, you must seek professional help. There are several withdrawal treatments available including rehab centers, hospitalization schemes, inpatient/Outpatient treatment, etc. Here are a few of them:

Hospitalization Program

This program is for severe cases only. The treatment happens in a hospital environment under the strict supervision of experts. Drug education and multiple therapies are a major part of the treatment. 

Inpatient/Outpatient Facilities

Inpatient treatment requires you to stay in the rehab center for at least 30-90 days depending upon how you respond to the therapy. There are private therapy sessions, group counseling sessions, self-help interactions, etc.

Outpatient treatment requires you to stay in a center as well but you have the freedom to carry on with your everyday life such as work, school, gym classes, etc, 

Detox Centers

Detox treatment may last from a week to a month, depending upon the condition of the patient. You can stay in the center until you develop a sober behavior or can continue like an Outpatient treatment. The treatment usually consists of medication, private sessions, etc.