Which type of steroids mimic the effects of male hormones for performance enhancement?

Anabolic steroids are specifically designed to mimic the effects of male hormones, particularly testosterone. They promote the growth of skeletal muscle and the development of male characteristics, which is why they are commonly associated with performance enhancement in athletics and bodybuilding. The term "anabolic" refers to the process of building up organs and tissues, particularly muscle mass. These steroids enhance protein synthesis in cells, leading to improved physical performance and increased muscle mass, which is sought after by many athletes looking to gain a competitive edge.

In contrast, androgenic steroids focus on the development of male characteristics, but anabolic steroids more directly relate to muscle growth and performance enhancement. Catabolic substances are those that break down tissue, while estrogenic steroids are related to female characteristics, making them unsuitable for the context of performance enhancement in male athletes.