Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Practice

Which of the following best describes anabolic steroids?

1. A Schedule I drug that contains only natural ingredients

2. A Schedule III drug that mimics androgens to build muscle

3. A non-prescription substance primarily used for enhancing athletic performance

4. A type of psychotropic medication for treating anxiety disorders

The correct answer is: A Schedule III drug that mimics androgens to build muscle

Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that are designed to mimic the effects of androgens, which are male hormones such as testosterone. They are classified as Schedule III controlled substances in the United States. This classification indicates that they have legitimate medical uses, such as in hormone therapy or specific medical conditions, but they can also be misused for enhancing muscle mass and athletic performance, which is where the association with androgens comes into play. The statement about anabolic steroids mimicking androgens is particularly relevant because it underscores their primary action within the body—stimulating muscle growth and improving physical performance. This characteristic is what often leads individuals to misuse these substances in sports and bodybuilding contexts, despite the legal and health risks involved. Other options do not accurately reflect the nature or classification of anabolic steroids. They may involve incorrect classifications or misrepresentations of the drugs' use and legal status. Therefore, identifying anabolic steroids as Schedule III drugs that mimic androgens encapsulates both their classification and their physiological role effectively.