Are anabolic steroids haram in Islam?

Yes, in general. Most scholars say using anabolic steroids to build muscle is not allowed, because Islam forbids harming yourself and cheating. Medicines prescribed by a doctor for a real condition, such as low testosterone, are different. If you've used steroids before, stop under medical advice and turn to Allah for forgiveness.

Why steroids are forbidden

The main reason is harm. The Quran says:

وَلَا تُلْقُوا۟ بِأَيْدِيكُمْ إِلَى ٱلتَّهْلُكَةِ "...and do not let your own hands throw you into destruction." Quran 2:195

Scholars read this verse as a general warning against harming yourself. The Prophet ﷺ also said, "There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm" (Sunan Ibn Majah 2340). Doctors warn that misusing anabolic steroids can strain the heart, damage the liver, disturb hormones and mood, and affect fertility. Taking them just to get bigger puts your body at risk for a cosmetic benefit. In many countries they are also controlled drugs without a prescription, so check your local law. See Is bodybuilding haram?

Cheating in sport

Many competitions ban steroids and test for them. Entering a tested event while using them is deceiving the organisers and your opponents. The Prophet ﷺ said that he who acted dishonestly towards us is not of us (Sahih Muslim 101). Honesty applies in sport just as it does in business. See Is it haram to cheat in sports?

Medical use is different

The Prophet ﷺ encouraged treatment, but said to use nothing unlawful (Sunan Abi Dawud 3874). A doctor may prescribe steroid-based or hormone treatment for real medical conditions. That isn't the same as taking them for size:

Prescribed and supervised treatment for a diagnosed condition is allowed.
Self-prescribed cycles bought from friends, gyms or the internet are not.
SARMs, "prohormones" and similar products follow the same reasoning, since they carry comparable risks.

If you are an athlete with a medical condition, speak to your doctor about the sport's rules on medical exemptions.

Safer ways to build muscle

Train with a clear programme and progress slowly.
Eat enough protein and calories, and sleep well.
Consider a well-tested, halal supplement such as protein powder. See Can Muslims take protein powder and supplements?
Be patient. Natural progress is slower, but it lasts.

If you have already used them

Don't lose hope. Allah accepts sincere repentance. Stop under your doctor's guidance, because stopping suddenly can have effects of its own, and get your blood work checked. If you're thinking of competing, see Can Muslim men compete in bodybuilding shows?

Key points

Using steroids to build muscle is forbidden for most scholars because of harm and cheating.
Doctor-prescribed treatment for a real condition is allowed.
SARMs and prohormones follow the same reasoning.
If you've used them, stop with medical advice and seek forgiveness.

Tip: If you feel pressure to "get bigger faster," talk to a coach or a trusted friend first. Most people lose more than they gain from a shortcut.