Topical steroids help treat various skin conditions and associated symptoms, such as swelling or redness, by reducing inflammation through several mechanisms; these include blocking chemical reactions ...

For any parent who has spent several sleepless nights with a child who has croup, steroids are heaven-sent. IM dexamethasone, however, involves giving children what they fear most -- a shot.

The risks associated with taking anabolic steroids are extensive and well-documented, ranging from infertility and erectile dysfunction to addiction and baldness, according to the NHS website.