People prefer oral steroids than injectable steroids. People want to get quick results and as such they prefer oral to injections.

The oral steroids come in ready form. Once the oral steroids are ingested, they undergo metabolism immediately and then enters the blood stream. On the other hand, the body is not capable of using the injectable steroids, especially those that contain esters. This is because the steroids will only become active once the ester chains are cut off.

Another advantage of using oral steroids is that its metabolites do not stay in the body system for a long period. This is what makes oral steroids popular among sportspersons as this gives them an advantage while going for anti-doping screenings.

Oral steroids come in tablet as well as syrup forms.

Steroids should not be used without the doctor’s advice. Before the doctor prescribes oral steroids, it is better to discuss with him all risks involved with taking the medication. Normally oral steroids are only prescribed for short terms.

Steroids come with many risks and side effects. It is very risky to use oral steroids for a very long period. Some of the common oral steroid side effects include change in appetite, weight gain, irritability, glaucoma, fluid retention, bone loss, sleeping problems and mood changes. Some of the severe oral steroid side effects include glaucoma, hypertension, cataract, heart diseases, obesity, diabetes, myopathy, acid reflux and osteoporosis.

Pregnant women and breast-feeding women should only use oral steroids after discussing with the doctor as these could lead to many risks.