Ethical Considerations of Steroid Use for Cosmetic Purposes: Balancing Patient Autonomy, Health Risks, and Societal Implications

Kirenyo Nalubega F.

Faculty of Medicine Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

The use of anabolic steroids and corticosteroids for cosmetic enhancement presents significant ethical concerns, particularly in balancing patient autonomy, medical ethics, and societal well-being. While some individuals seek steroids for muscle growth, fat reduction, and post-procedural recovery, their non-medical use raises risks such as cardiovascular complications, hormonal imbalances, and psychological disorders. This review examines the ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare providers in prescribing steroids for aesthetic purposes, analyzing issues of beneficence, non-maleficence, and informed consent. Furthermore, it explores the broader societal implications of steroid normalization, including the reinforcement of unrealistic beauty standards, regulatory challenges, and the potential strain on public health systems. By reviewing current medical guidelines, case studies, and ethical frameworks, this paper provides recommendations for responsible steroid use in aesthetic medicine, advocating for stricter regulations, enhanced patient education, and ethical decision-making by medical professionals.

Keywords: Anabolic steroids, Corticosteroids, Aesthetic medicine, Patient autonomy, Medical ethics.

CITE AS: Kirenyo Nalubega F. (2025). Ethical Considerations of Steroid Use for Cosmetic Purposes: Balancing Patient Autonomy, Health Risks, and Societal Implications. Research Output Journal of Public Health and Medicine 5(3):113-118. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJPHM/2025/53113118