People who use IPEDs put themselves at risk of substantial harm to their health, including significant cardiovascular problems, which are potentially life-threatening. There can also be extensive and permanent disruption of normal sexual function as a result of long term or heavy use. Some IPED users will take only one substance, however users often take several different drugs simultaneously (‘stacking’) in complex, high-dose regimens. These additional drugs, such as Tamoxifen, are often taken as they are believed to counter some of the side effects of steroid use.

Regularly taking anabolic steroids can lead to physical and psychological changes in both men and women, as well as potentially dangerous medical conditions. The use of anabolic agents is also likely to be more damaging to a young person, who is still growing, than a mature adult. It is possible that the younger a person starts to use steroids, the longer they are likely to take them.