Steroids and narcotics

Please do not use the word 'steroid' to refer to any substance that boosts athletic performance. Some of these substances are steroids, and they belong to a group of chemicals known as anabolic steroids. But not all qualify for the designation. Molecules that are classified as steroids have a specific chemical structure which is similar to that of sterols. So what are examples of steroids? Testosterone, estrogens, cortisol, and cholesterol. When doctors use the word 'steroid' , the usually are referring to anti-inflammatory drugs that resemble cortisol.

The word 'narcotic' is also frequently misused. It should only be applied to "downers".