Anabolic steroids are often discussed in terms of muscle gains, acne, hair loss, and long-term heart health. But according to Renaissance Periodization’s Dr. Mike Israetel, those aren’t the risks teenagers should fear most.
In a recent YouTube video, Israetel shares what he calls the “mostly untold” dangers of steroid use during adolescence. Speaking openly about his own experience using performance-enhancing drugs as an adult, he argues that timing matters just as much as the decision itself.
Steroids Work, But That’s Not the Whole Story
Israetel starts by addressing a common misconception.
Rather than claiming steroids don’t build muscle, he acknowledges they are highly effective.
“The reality is that steroids do produce impressive gains. Very impressive gains.”
He argues that exaggerating or denying those benefits does little to discourage young people from experimenting. Instead, he focuses on three risks that receive far less attention but may have lifelong consequences.
Early Steroid Use May Affect Adult Height
The first concern involves skeletal development.
Israetel explains that many anabolic steroids increase estrogen levels through aromatization. Elevated estrogen can cause growth plates to close earlier than normal, potentially limiting final adult height.
While medications exist to reduce estrogen, he notes that using them introduces additional health risks and requires regular medical monitoring, something many teenagers are unlikely to have access to.
Brain Development Continues Into Adulthood
Another concern is how anabolic steroids may affect the developing brain.
According to Israetel, the prefrontal cortex, which plays a major role in decision-making, impulse control, and long-term planning, continues maturing well into early adulthood.
He warns that interfering with this process could affect executive function, emotional regulation, and the ability to consistently make good decisions.
“Being smarter is one of the most underrated advantages you can have.”
Rather than focusing only on physical performance, he encourages young athletes to consider how cognitive development influences education, career success, and everyday life.
Hormonal Disruption Can Affect Sexual Health
Israetel also highlights sexual dysfunction as another overlooked consequence.
He explains that some anabolic steroids can contribute to erectile dysfunction during use or after discontinuation. Hormonal imbalances caused by disrupted androgen and estrogen levels may also create additional complications affecting sexual health.
While these effects do not occur in every user, he believes they deserve far more attention when discussing steroid use among teenagers.
Why Waiting Makes a Difference
One of Israetel’s main messages is that age changes the risk profile.
He says anabolic steroids become significantly safer after most physical development is complete, which for many people is around age 25. At that point, adults can work with qualified medical professionals, monitor blood work, and make more informed decisions.
He also points out that teenagers are already in one of the most anabolic stages of life. Consistent resistance training, adequate sleep, and proper nutrition can produce substantial muscle growth without introducing unnecessary risks.
Reflecting on his own experience, Israetel says waiting until age 27 to begin testosterone use remains one of the best decisions he made.
Patience Can Be the Better Long-Term Strategy
Israetel closes by encouraging young lifters to think beyond immediate muscle gains.
Rather than rushing into performance-enhancing drugs, he recommends investing those years in building training experience, developing healthy habits, and maximizing natural progress. He also notes that future medical advances may eventually provide safer performance-enhancing options than those currently available.
For teenagers eager to get bigger faster, his message is straightforward: short-term gains may not be worth compromising long-term health and development.
About the Author
Jeremiah Oliva
Jeremiah Oliva is a writer passionate about fitness, sports, and active living. He has experience in songwriting and managing content and social media for online radio and magazine platforms.
He covers HYROX, CrossFit®, and competitive fitness, with a focus on performance, mindset, and athlete development.
Outside of writing, Jeremiah trains in boxing, cycles, explores the outdoors with his kids, and plays the guitar.
