Some of the commonly used drugs are anabolic steroids. These drugs are developed to treat a few serious conditions, for instance, blood, bone and kidney diseases. Unfortunately, these drugs can sometimes cause irreversible side effects. One example is the stunting of growth in children. Some young patients may develop jaundice and sodium retention that can lead to heart failure. In the West, the use of anabolic steroids for children is strictly checked or prohibited. In developing countries where this drug is used freely. It is very likely that thousands of children are suffering from various negative effects as mentioned above.
Exactly how many drugs are sold without prescription in developing countries will never be known. It has been estimated that 10 000 branded drugs are on the open market in Thailand, Brazil, India and Indonesia. Not all of these countries have up-to-date prescription laws. Those that have tend to overlook them. It is hoped that the relevant authorities will act swiftly before the situation deteriorates.
