Common performance-enhancing drugs

Among teens, common performance-enhancing drugs and supplements include:

• Creatine. Creatine is a naturally occurring compound in the body that's also sold as an over-the-counter supplement. It's used to improve performance during high-intensity bursts of activity and to help increase muscle mass.
• Anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the hormone testosterone, used to build muscle and increase strength.
• Steroid precursors. Steroid precursors, such as androstenedione ("andro") and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), are substances that the body converts into anabolic steroids. They're used to increase muscle mass. Most steroid precursors are illegal without a prescription. DHEA, however, is still available in over-the-counter preparations.
• Amphetamines and other stimulants. Teens use these substances believing that they will increase alertness and improve endurance.
• Caffeine. Kids and teens may turn to energy drinks or certain endurance sports supplements containing caffeine, hoping to boost endurance and alertness.