In Brief: Is testosterone booster the same as steroids?
No, testosterone booster are not the same as steroids. Anabolic steroids are synthetic compounds that contain substances like testosterone to build muscle and improve physical performance. It may cause cardio, liver problems, and psychoses if the amount of testosterone used is high.[1] Whereas, testosterone boosters are herbal and nutrient-based substances that help in increasing and maintaining the body’s testosterone levels.[2]
One thing common between steroids and testosterone boosters is that both leverage the power to testosterone to achieve their desired effects.
The steroids refer to a wide range of lipid molecules with different physiological effects, including anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties.
They can be naturally produced hormones as well as synthetic compounds.[3]
Anabolic-androgenic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone, its precursors, or other related compounds.
They act like testosterone and other male sex hormones.
Athletes often take anabolic steroids as well as non-steroid compounds to enhance muscle growth, strength, recovery time, increase fat burning, and alter metabolic processes.
Some non-athletes take them too to look better. [4]
Read: Can Testosterone Increase Size?
Anabolic steroids are frequently abused, and therefore, about 30% of AAS users develop a dependence syndrome with adverse effects as the amounts of steroids and testosterone forms used are typically higher per dose.[5]
Due to the growing interest in herbal and dietary supplements, the use of testosterone boosters is becoming popular worldwide.
Testosterone boosters are supplements that are primarily used for increasing the testosterone levels in the blood, which contrasts the use of anabolic steroids by bodybuilders and athletes.
They are prominently herbal and nutrient-based supplements which are not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure diseases.
The goal of taking these boosters is to have a milder effect than steroids. [6]
It is often used to provide all the benefits that a normal testosterone level can provide, including increasing strength, muscle mass, and improving mood.
They are different from prescription-based testosterone replacement therapy.
There are different testosterone boosters available, and the key ingredients found are horny goat weed, saw palmetto, ashwagandha, maca root, nettle extract, and fenugreek.
Read: Is Licorice Root a Testosterone Booster?
These ingredients listed are sold as different supplement blends or can be picked individually. They may also contain micro-nutrients like zinc that has been linked to healthy testosterone levels. [7]
However, there are not a lot of research data to claim the efficacy of testosterone boosters.
A case study showed that a sportsman who consumed two courses of a testosterone booster for 42 days reported abdominal pain and abnormal hepatic functions. [8]
More research is required to assess the safety and risks of commercial testosterone boosters.
It is advisable to get an opinion of a medicinal practitioner before taking any supplements or steroids.