Oxymetholone (Anadrol): A Powerful and Controversial Steroid

Active Substance: Oxymetholone
Trade Names: Anadrol 50, Anadrolon 50, Anapolon 50, Anasteron, Androlic, Dinasten, Oximetolon, Rinasteron

Introduction to Anadrol

Anadrol (Oxymetholone) is one of the most potent and fast-acting oral steroids available. However, its strength comes with significant risks, making it one of the most dangerous anabolic steroids when misused. Users can experience rapid weight gains of 5-7 kg (11-15 lbs) within just two weeks, primarily due to water retention rather than lean muscle growth.

While it does not promote high-quality muscle definition, Anadrol significantly increases muscle volume. One notable benefit is its ability to lubricate joints through water retention, reducing discomfort and injury risk. Additionally, its strong androgenic properties enhance post-workout recovery, minimizing the chances of overtraining.

Medical Applications of Anadrol

Originally developed for medical purposes, Anadrol is primarily used to treat anemia by boosting red blood cell production. This increase allows muscles to absorb more oxygen, leading to enhanced endurance. However, a common drawback is the extreme muscle pumps experienced during training, which can be so severe that they cause discomfort and limit workout performance.

How Anadrol Affects Appetite

Another unique characteristic of Anadrol is its impact on appetite stimulation. Moderate doses often lead to increased hunger, which is beneficial for bulking. However, paradoxically, high doses can suppress appetite, potentially hindering muscle growth by making it difficult to consume sufficient nutrients.

Dosage and Administration Guidelines

The recommended dosage for Anadrol is between 1-2 mg per kg of body weight (or 0.5-1 mg per pound). This translates to typical doses of 50-150 mg per day. A common approach is to start with 50 mg per day and gradually increase the dose if needed. Those over 100 kg (220 lbs) who respond well to Anadrol may increase their dosage to 150 mg per day, though such high doses should be used only for short periods due to increased risk of side effects.

Clinical studies suggest that a 100 mg daily dose produces similar results to 150 mg per day, but with fewer adverse effects. Higher doses may also reduce appetite and increase insulin resistance, making nutrient absorption less efficient.

Cycle Duration: The use of Anadrol should be limited to 4-6 weeks to minimize health risks.

How Anadrol is Used in Steroid Cycles

Anadrol is typically included at the start of a bulking cycle to kick-start muscle growth while waiting for longer-acting injectable steroids to take effect. It is not suitable for cutting cycles due to its tendency to cause water retention.

Important: Anadrol should never be used as a standalone steroid, as most of the weight gained will be lost after discontinuation. Additionally, it should never be stacked with another oral steroid due to its high hepatotoxicity.

Anadrol is also favored by strength-focused athletes such as strongman competitors and heavyweight powerlifters who do not need to maintain a specific weight class.

Potential Side Effects of Anadrol

Liver Toxicity

Anadrol is one of the most hepatotoxic oral steroids. The first warning signs of liver stress include yellowing of the skin, eyes, and nails. While Anadrol is the only steroid linked to liver cancer, this occurs only in cases of severe abuse.

Other Side Effects

• Gynecomastia (Breast tissue development in men)
• Severe acne and oily skin
• Massive hair loss (especially in those genetically predisposed)
• Frequent headaches and nausea
• Vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea
• General feeling of unwellness

The most common side effects are headaches and a general feeling of discomfort, making Anadrol unsuitable for beginners.

Managing Estrogenic Side Effects

Despite being derived from DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), Anadrol exhibits estrogenic-like effects, leading to water retention. However, traditional aromatase inhibitors (AIs) such as Arimidex or Letrozole do not work effectively since Anadrol does not convert to estrogen via aromatization. Nonetheless, some users report that Letrozole can help reduce water retention, though this remains anecdotal.

Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) and Recovery

After an Anadrol cycle, users experience a significant hormonal crash. The initial drop in weight is primarily due to the loss of retained water, which is expected and not a major concern.

However, the suppression of natural testosterone production is a critical issue. Anadrol strongly inhibits the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA), making Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) essential for hormonal recovery.

Recommended PCT Protocol:

• Start PCT immediately after the cycle ends
• Use SERMs such as Nolvadex and Clomid to stimulate natural testosterone production
• Incorporate HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) during the cycle (250-500 IU per week) to prevent testicular atrophy

Final Thoughts

Anadrol is an extremely powerful but high-risk anabolic steroid. It delivers rapid mass and strength gains, but the side effects can be severe, particularly concerning liver health and hormone suppression. It should be used responsibly and only by experienced users who understand the risks.

Key Takeaways:

• Anadrol is not suitable for beginners
• It is best used to kick-start a bulking cycle alongside injectable steroids
• Never stack Anadrol with another oral steroid
• Limit use to 4-6 weeks to reduce liver damage
• Proper PCT is crucial to restore testosterone production and maintain gains

By approaching Anadrol cycles with caution, careful dosing, and a well-structured PCT, athletes can maximize their gains while minimizing long-term risks.