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Steroids side effects are likely to occur when these drugs are misused or used in prolonged periods. Steroids side effects can also be experienced when you ingest or inject amounts beyond what is recommended. This is the same as with other class of drugs. Among the most common side effects of steroids are the gender-specific side effects.  

The feminization symptoms in males, such as water retention and gynecomastia (growth of mammary tissues) in males are the most common side effects of steroids. Gynecomastia is caused by high levels of estrogen in circulation as a result to increased conversion of testosterone to estrogen by the aromatase enzyme. This side effect is likely to occur if you’re taking highly aromatizable steroids.  Other male-specific side effect of steroids is testicular atrophy or shrinkage. This steroid side effect is caused by suppression of the natural testosterone levels. This steroid side effect is reversible – the testicles return to normal size when steroid therapy is discontinued.

The female-specific steroid side effects include hirsutism (excessive growth of body hair), deepening of voice, clitoral enlargement, and disruption of menstrual cycles. Other steroid side effects that can be experienced by both males and females are increase in the risk of cardiovascular diseases, acne breakout, and liver damage. Liver damage can occur in cases of high doses and prolonged intake of c-17 alpha-alkylated steroids.