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STEROPEDIA

Oxandrolone

Basic Information

Common Name(s): Anavar, Oxandrolone
Chemical Name: 17β-hydroxy-17α-methyl-2-oxa-5α-androstan-3-one
Class/Category: Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid (AAS)

Anavar (Oxandrolone) is one of the “milder” oral anabolic steroids, favored by those seeking moderate but quality muscle gains and improved strength with comparatively fewer side effects. First introduced for medical applications such as aiding weight gain after surgery or treating osteoporosis, Anavar made its way into athletic use due to its relatively low androgenic impact and its reputation for assisting in lean mass retention or growth.

Administration & Dosage

Important: Oxandrolone is C17-alpha alkylated, which allows it to pass through the liver but does place stress on it.

  • Beginners: 20–30 mg per day (split into two doses)
  • Intermediate Users: 40–60 mg per day
  • Advanced Users: 60–80 mg per day
  • Female Users: 5–20 mg per day

Note: Typical cycle lengths run about 6–8 weeks. Longer cycles risk elevated liver enzyme levels and other potential side effects.

Effects & Experience

Primary Intended Effects

  1. Lean Muscle Gains

    • Slower, steadier increases in muscle mass
    • Not dramatic like other orals

  2. Increased Strength & Endurance

    • Popular among powerlifters
    • Performance boost without excessive bulk

  3. Reduced Water Retention

    • “Dry” appearance
    • Popular for cutting phases

  4. Enhanced Fat Loss

    • Preserves lean mass
    • Accelerates metabolic rate

Common Side Effects

  • Liver Strain: Requires supporting supplements like TUDCA, NAC, or Liv.52
  • Lipid & Cholesterol Changes: Regular monitoring recommended
  • Androgenic Effects: Milder but possible (acne, oily skin, hair loss)
  • Testosterone Suppression: PCT necessary
  • Virility Concerns (For Women): Lower risk but still possible

Time Course of Effects

  1. Onset: 1–2 weeks (subtle strength gains)
  2. Peak: 3–4 weeks (pronounced changes)
  3. Duration: 6–8 weeks recommended
  4. After Effects: Proper PCT required

Stacking Options

Common Combinations

  • Anavar + Testosterone: Recommended for lean-bulk or cutting
  • Anavar + Winstrol: Advanced users only, pre-contest
  • Anavar + Equipoise: Steady lean muscle approach
  • Solo Use (Women): 5–20 mg daily for 4–6 weeks

Safety & Risk Management

Major Risk Factors

  • Hepatotoxicity: Critical to monitor liver enzymes
  • Cholesterol Profile: HDL reduction common
  • Hormone Suppression: Requires PCT
  • Blood Pressure: Less severe than other compounds

Warning Signs

IMMEDIATE DISCONTINUATION REQUIRED IF:

  • Unusual fatigue or jaundice appears
  • Severe mood changes or lethargy occur
  • Virilization symptoms in women

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)

Essential for hormone restoration

  • Start: 1-2 days after last dose
  • Options: SERMs (Nolvadex or Clomid)
  • Duration: Several weeks (varies with stack)

Conclusion

While Anavar offers a milder approach to performance enhancement, users must remember that “mild” doesn’t equal “risk-free.” Success requires:

  • Reasonable cycle lengths
  • Appropriate dosaging
  • Liver health monitoring
  • Solid PCT planning

Always prioritize safety over rapid gains.