Anadrol (Oxymetholone): The Ultimate Guide

What is Anadrol?

Anadrol (oxymetholone) is a DHT-derived oral anabolic steroid. In our experience, Anadrol is one of the most powerful compounds in bodybuilding.

Anadrol, also known as A-bombs or Oxy’s, is predominantly used by bodybuilders in the off-season (when bulking), significantly increasing muscular size and strength.

When a pharmaceutical company called Syntex studied Anadrol for research purposes, it first appeared on the scene in 1959. They found Anadrol to be a successful treatment for anemia, osteoporosis, and muscle-wasting conditions such as HIV/AIDS.

Two years later, oxymetholone became available in the UK under the brand name Anapolon. Other prominent products emerged, such as Adroyd and Anadrol, which were marketed in the U.S.

In the early 1960s, Anadrol was widely available for bodybuilders to use for cosmetic purposes.

As Anadrol’s harsh side effects became increasingly well-known, the FDA limited prescriptions of oxymetholone in the mid-1970s. Bodybuilders were now unable to obtain Anadrol from their doctor, with it now being predominantly prescribed to patients suffering from anemia.

Anadrol is one of the few steroids that is still FDA-approved for medicinal purposes today (1), alongside:

• Anavar
• Testosterone
• Deca Durabolin

Disclosure: We do not accept any form of advertising on Inside Bodybuilding. We monetize our practice via doctor consultations and carefully chosen pharmaceutical recommendations, which have given our patients excellent results.

Anadrol Benefits

• Rapid weight gain
• Muscle building
• Enhances strength
• Oral form
• Joint support
• Fat loss

Weight Gain

Anadrol is quite possibly the best steroid in terms of weight gain and increasing muscle hypertrophy. The weight we see gained on Anadrol is typically comprised of muscle and water retention.

It is not uncommon for users to gain as much as 10 pounds in the first week on Anadrol. By the 6th week, weight gain can increase to 30 lbs. Roughly half of this is likely to be water.

Because Anadrol shifts a lot of water inside the muscle cells, muscle pumps in the gym can be prominent. Pumps can even become problematic, with some users describing lower-back pumps as painful.

Muscle Building

Anadrol is 3x more anabolic than testosterone, to put its muscle-building potential into perspective.

Some of this size will be temporary intracellular fluid retention, giving the muscles a more pumped look.

However, we find the lean muscle gains on Anadrol are still significant, due to increased testosterone levels, protein synthesis, and nitrogen retention.

Scientists regard Anadrol as “one of the most potent steroids ever developed for building muscle,” with participants gaining 14.5 lbs of muscle per 100 lb of body weight in studies (2).

However, these results are based on high doses for excessive periods of time; thus, results for a bodybuilder will be slightly less, assuming a shorter cycle and a more cautious dose.

Anecdotally, we find that 18 lbs of lean muscle is common for a first-time 6-week cycle of Anadrol. This will be roughly 60% of the overall weight gained.

Enhances Strength

We have found Anadrol to be one of the most utilized steroids in powerlifting and strongman circles. This is due to improvements in weight gain and strength.

We have seen users add 30 pounds to their bench press in the first 10 days on Anadrol.

By the end of a cycle, Anadrol has the ability to add approximately 60 pounds to a user’s:

1. Squat
2. Deadlift
3. Bench press

Usually, the strength gained during these compound lifts will be double the body weight gained on Anadrol.

Strength levels can decrease by 40% post-cycle, which correlates with the same degree of weight loss.

Oral Form

Anadrol 50 is essentially a 50 mg tablet. Thus, no injections are needed.

Injections can be dangerous if the person doesn’t know what they are doing. One of the most common injection sites is the buttocks, which, if done incorrectly, can injure the sciatic nerve and cause paralysis (3).

Despite orals being more convenient and easier to take, there are drawbacks to taking pills, which will be detailed in the side effects section.

Joint Support

We have found Anadrol to be beneficial to joints due to its water-retaining properties.

It lubricates the joints, increasing elasticity and decreasing inflammation and/or joint pain.

Thus, if a bodybuilder has joint problems, taking a steroid such as Anadrol or Deca Durabolin may be preferable to Winstrol, for example, with the latter expelling water and creating more wear on the joints.

Fat Loss

Some people believe Anadrol causes fat gain; however, this is not accurate. All anabolic steroids, including Anadrol, are different types of exogenous testosterone. Testosterone will build muscle and burn fat. Thus, different steroids will build muscle and burn fat to different degrees.

Two studies have concluded that Anadrol burns significant amounts of subcutaneous fat when dosed at 100 mg per day (4, 5).

The reason why Anadrol may appear to cause fat gain is due to water retention. The puffiness and bloating from the excess fluid can give the appearance of a higher body fat percentage.

As Anadrol is a bulking steroid, users are likely to combine it with a high-calorie diet, resulting in fat gain and additional water retention. This, however, is linked to the person’s diet and not directly related to Anadrol itself.

Therefore, if a maintenance-calorie diet is adopted, the person will not gain subcutaneous fat.

However, Anadrol and other steroids can cause increases in visceral fat (6). This is not the fat you can pinch around your stomach but instead is located internally and wraps around your organs.

Anadrol Side Effects

Generally, the better the results experienced from a steroid, the worse the side effects are. Although Anadrol produces some of the best strength and mass gains we have seen, it is also a very harsh steroid. Thus, it is not recommended for beginners.

Common Anadrol side effects we observe:

1. Liver toxicity
2. High blood pressure
3. Water retention
4. Gynecomastia (possibility)
5. It shuts down testosterone.
6. Hair loss
7. Acne
8. Increased risk of injury
9. Decreased well-being

Liver Toxicity

One of our main concerns with Anadrol is that it is hepatotoxic.

It is a C17-alpha-alkylated compound, which essentially protects Anadrol from being deactivated via the liver. This allows a very high amount of Anadrol to remain active in the bloodstream when taken orally. However, C17-alpha-alkylated steroids strain the liver.

Anadrol does have a saturated A-ring, which reduces its toxicity somewhat; however, studies confirm that liver health can deteriorate if high doses are used.

In a 2003 study, 89 men and women who were HIV/AIDS positive took 100–150 mg of Anadrol per day for 16 weeks (7).

25% of the 100 mg group had their ALT/AST liver enzymes increase over 5-fold.

43% of the 150 mg group’s ALT/AST increased over 5-fold.

These findings also correlate with our practical experience. Thus, when Anadrol is taken in high doses for excessive periods of time, it is particularly damaging to the liver.

However, bodybuilders should have no reason to go above 100 mg per day, as muscle and weight gains largely remained the same between the 100 mg and 150 mg groups in this study.

In another study, 31 elderly men took 50–100 mg per day for 12 weeks. The 50 mg group did not experience any increase in liver enzymes; however, the 100 mg group experienced modest ALT and AST elevations (8). However, the 100 mg group did not result in any cases of hepatic enlargement or cholestasis.

A 20-year-old Japanese woman who suffered from aplastic anemia was treated with Anadrol, taking 30 mg/day for 6 years (this is a very long time). Despite developing multiple liver lesions, a lab evaluation found her liver function to be normal (9). This is a fortunate outcome considering she was taking this high dose (for a female) for 6 years.

Even though the liver is a resilient organ and studies have shown that abusing Anadrol does not cause liver failure, it should still be thought of as highly hepatotoxic.

Thus, users should take precautions, utilizing low to moderate doses in relatively short cycles (4-6 weeks).

In another study, 28 adults with chronic anemia were given a very high dose of Anadrol, 5 mg/kg of body weight (10).

This translated to doses as high as 450 mg per day for men. Surprisingly, hepatic toxicity was only observed in less than 10% of the patients.

However, caution must be exercised, as we have seen hepatic complications arise from high dosages and excessive cycles.

TUDCA

To help ease the strain on the liver when taking Anadrol, we have found TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) supplementation to be advantageous. This is a naturally occurring compound found in bile acid, produced in the liver.

The natural healing effects of TUDCA have been used to treat liver disease in Chinese medicine for the last 3,000 years, often in the form of bear bile (containing over 50% of TUDCA). In comparison, only small amounts of TUDCA exist in human bile.

In medical research, TUDCA has been shown to be effective in treating chronic active hepatitis.

In one study, 53 patients took 500 mg of TUDCA per day for 3 months (11). It was effective in lowering AST and ALT enzymes within the first month. This effect was significant by the third month, with AST and ALT enzymes dropping by 44% and 49%, respectively. The patients also reported no side effects.

Therefore, bodybuilders commonly supplement with TUDCA during or after a cycle for liver protection. Alcohol should also be avoided.

Effective TUDCA supplements can be bought online, typically costing in the region of $20–30. It is an FDA-approved supplement.

High Blood Pressure

Anadrol is one of the most deleterious anabolic steroids for blood pressure, based on our lipid profile tests. All AAS will elevate a person’s blood pressure due to exogenous testosterone, causing a negative shift in cholesterol levels. This results in a rise in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and a decrease in HDL (good) levels.

With Anadrol, studies have shown an insignificant impact on LDL levels but a notable decline in HDL levels (12). In the previously cited study, the 31 elderly men taking 50–100 mg of Anadrol per day experienced a reduction in HDL by 19 and 23 points.

Anadrol will also raise blood pressure due to it significantly increasing red blood cell count. We have seen Anadrol users experience up to 5x the number of red blood cells compared to a normal person (13).

Consequently, blood can become more viscous, with blood flow to the heart potentially becoming impaired. When a person retains water, the same blood-thickening effect happens, further reducing circulation.

Due to Anadrol’s drastic effect on HDL cholesterol levels, water retention, and red blood cell count, it is a steroid that has a negative effect on the heart.

A diuretic may be used to lower blood pressure if a person experiences significant water retention. However, this will result in less muscle fullness and decreased strength gains due to less ATP production inside the muscle cell.

Users with high blood pressure or a history of heart disease in their family should refrain from using Anadrol.

Those who are planning on cycling Anadrol should try to minimize this increase in blood pressure by performing regular cardio (14). We find this improves blood flow, notably to and from the heart.

Nosebleeds and headaches can occur while on Anadrol, which can be a sign of elevated blood pressure. If this happens, get a check-up, and if your blood pressure is high, cycle off immediately.

Water Retention and Gynecomastia

Anadrol is a DHT derivative; thus, it does not aromatize and convert into estrogen.

However, we find it to be estrogenic in real-life settings, having the potential to cause gynecomastia, water retention, and bloating.

It has been theorized that these estrogenic side effects are due to Anadrol acting as a progestin; however, studies show Anadrol to have little effect on progesterone levels.

Instead, Anadrol stimulates the estrogen receptors directly, similar to methandriol.

Water retention can be beneficial during a steroid cycle, as intracellular fluid can aid ATP production and thus increase muscular strength and size.

However, the downside to water retention is that the muscles look smooth and their definition is reduced. Bloating is a common side effect we see with Anadrol, especially in high doses or when taken in conjunction with a high sodium diet.

Due to Anadrol causing noticeable amounts of extracellular fluid retention, it’s not the most optimal steroid for vascularity.

Why Anadrol Doesn’t Always Guarantee Water Retention

Our patients do not experience noticeable bloating or fluid retention on Anadrol if their diet is clean and they are already lean.

For example, men’s physique competitors commonly can take Anadrol before a competition, helping them to look extra full without any noticeable water retention or bloating. The reason why they don’t experience water retention from Anadrol when preparing for a show is that the presence of high estrogen levels does not automatically guarantee water retention.

We find that high estrogen increases your sensitivity to sodium; thus, if a person’s sodium intake is moderate and they take Anadrol, they will retain more water. However, if a bodybuilder’s sodium intake is low and they consume large amounts of water (as bodybuilders typically do before a contest), sodium levels will remain low, and thus increased sodium sensitivity is no longer an issue. Consequently, bodybuilders can appear full and dry on stage.

Gynecomastia

We have had cases of Anadrol causing gynecomastia via the direct stimulation of estrogen receptors in the mammary gland. Gynecomastia (gyno) is when additional breast tissue starts to form in a male.

Mild gyno can resemble swollen nipples, whereas severe gyno can cause a man’s breasts to look like a woman’s.

To prevent estrogenic side effects from occurring, we typically prescribe two anti-estrogens:

1. Nolvadex
2. Clomid

Note: Aromatase inhibitors, such as Arimidex or Cytadren, will not be effective in reducing estrogenic side effects, as Anadrol does not elevate estrogen levels via aromatization (but direct stimulation).

Shuts Down Testosterone

All anabolic steroids will suppress endogenous testosterone production. The post-cycle crash can typically be detrimental for Anadrol users; thus, a PCT is essential in accelerating the restoration of mental well-being and natural testosterone production.

Low testosterone levels can cause:

• Low energy
• Low motivation
• Decreased libido
• Impotence
• Decreased well-being

Because the “come down” on Anadrol is severe, we sometimes see steroid users opt for a milder steroid such as Deca Durabolin after coming off to aid this transition. Such a protocol may also help users retain more strength and muscle gains experienced from an Anadrol cycle.

However, we find that if a person opts to use a lighter steroid following Anadrol, this will delay the time it takes for endogenous testosterone levels to recover. Thus, it is only typically implemented by individuals who have low well-being post-cycle.

We see that natural testosterone levels typically recover within 1-4 months after coming off Anadrol (and other steroids). However, this is only a general rule that applies to those who do not abuse steroids.

If users take high dosages of Anadrol for excessive periods of time, they run the risk of developing hypogonadism, which may require medical intervention to get the testes functioning properly again (15).

Abuse of Anadrol or other steroids may also lead to infertility due to decreased sperm count and quality. In our experience, this effect can become permanent, preventing men from having children (16).

Discover how to increase your endogenous testosterone production (back to normal levels) in our post-cycle therapy section.

Hair Loss and Acne

Anadrol has a low androgenic rating of 45. This is less than half the rating of testosterone.

However, this mild score does not correlate in real-life settings, where we see Anadrol regularly producing androgenic effects, including hair loss (on the scalp), oily skin, and acne.

This is due to increased sebum production, which is secreted by the sebaceous glands. The role of sebum is to moisturize the skin; however, too much of it can block the pores, leading to acne breakouts.

This side effect is often genetic; thus, if a person has experienced acne during puberty, they may be more at risk.

Anadrol is a DHT-derived steroid, but it also converts into dihydrotestosterone, the hormone responsible for hair loss on the scalp.

DHT causes miniaturization of the hair follicles, causing them to thin or even fall out. Hair loss is a concern when taking any steroid; however, in our experience, it is often determined by a person’s genetics.

For example, we see some bodybuilders take Anadrol, trenbolone, and testosterone together for several months and keep thick-looking hair. Others can take a mild steroid such as Deca and experience significant hairline recession after just a couple of cycles.

If you are predisposed to losing your hair, steroids will accelerate this process. Alternatively, if you have strong hair genetics, steroids may not cause you to go bald.

How Does Anadrol Produce Androgenic Side Effects Despite Having a Low Androgenic Rating?

With Anadrol, the conversion of DHT isn’t through the usual pathway, being the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. Anadrol uniquely contains an additional 2-hydroxymethylene group. Once in the body, this is metabolized, reducing oxymetholone into 17-alpha-methyl dihydrotestosterone (otherwise known as mestanolone or proviron).

17-alpha-methyl dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen, which explains why androgenic side effects are possible despite it having a low androgenic rating.

Because Anadrol does not convert into DHT via the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, we find that medications such as finasteride are ineffective for the treatment of hair loss. Also, it may not be in a bodybuilder’s best interest to reduce DHT levels with such medications, as we have observed reductions in strength and muscle gains.

Increased Risk of Injury

Significant weight gain from Anadrol places stress on connective tissues. Consequently, we have witnessed several pectoral and bicep tears attributed to Anadrol use. This is the side effect of large increases in strength (+60 lbs on compound exercises).

To reduce the risk of injury, bodybuilders can lift lighter weights and perform more repetitions. This will not reduce muscle gains, as we have found lighter weights to be just as effective for building hypertrophy as heavy weights (17).

Furthermore, performing a sufficient warm-up will help the muscles become more supple and decrease the risk of injury.

Decreased Well-Being

Some of our patients report that Anadrol gives them mood swings and can make them feel miserable. This can be attributed to the potency and toxicity of the steroid, i.e., the combination of:

• Liver strain
• Water retention
• High blood pressure

In some individuals, Anadrol may not produce the same constant euphoria as Dianabol, for example. This is because Anadrol is a harsher steroid, so the side effects are more prominent.

However, individuals who genetically respond well to Anadrol can experience increased well-being due to the large increase in testosterone.

Note: Fluctuations in well-being can also be dose-dependent, in our experience.

Is Anadrol Safe?

Anadrol remains FDA-approved in the United States for the treatment of anemia. Thus, when administered under a doctor’s supervision, oxymetholone is deemed safe.

However, bodybuilders who use Anadrol in a non-medical setting continue to put themselves at risk. High doses and excessive cycles of Anadrol can lead to abuse.

Furthermore, when Anadrol is taken in recreational settings, it is not guaranteed to be real oxymetholone due to the purchase of this steroid on the black market.

Despite Anadrol being FDA-approved, it is still one of the harshest steroids we have come across, based on our lipid profile tests. Thus, caution should be used.

Anadrol for Women

Because men experience androgenic effects from Anadrol, some assume that it also causes virilization side effects in women, which are:

• Deepened voice
• Clitoral enlargement
• Body hair
• Hair loss (on the scalp)
• Masculine facial features (including a more pronounced jawline)

However, we have found Anadrol to be a female-friendly steroid with a low affinity for masculinization side effects. Research also confirms this.

Study: female HIV patients suffering from chronic cachexia were given 100–150 mg of Anadrol per day for 30 weeks (18). This is a megadose by bodybuilding standards and an extremely harsh cycle. However, virilization did not occur in any of the women. In fact, the only side effects reported were a lack of sexual desire and increased fatigue. The women also did not experience any hypertension or androgenic side effects either (which is contrary to its effects in men).

There are two explanations for why Anadrol does not cause virilization in women. Firstly, we find that masculinization occurs in women when androgen levels are high and estrogen levels are low. Anadrol is androgenic but also estrogenic, preventing this ratio from becoming imbalanced.

Another reason why Anadrol is female-friendly is due to its low affinity when binding to SHBG (19). High levels of sex hormone-binding globulin aren’t female-friendly, as they cause women’s natural testosterone production to become free or unbound.

In comparison, Winstrol binds strongly to SHBG and consequently produces strong masculine side effects in women. Winstrol also does not convert into estrogen, creating an optimal environment for virilization.

Anavar is a more common steroid taken by females; however, we know that it can still produce virilization in higher doses.

Steroid expert Bill Roberts (Ph.D.) states in his experience that:

“5 mg of Anavar is roughly the equivalent of 25 mg of Anadrol for risk of virilization.”

He also recommends splitting up the doses of Anadrol throughout the day instead of taking 25 mg in one go.

In another study, women were given oxymetholone to treat anemia and bone marrow failure (20). They started on a dose of 1 mg per kg, then increased in monthly increments by 50%, up to 100 mg per day. Every female was given a dose of at least 50 mg of Anadrol per day.

Four women in the study showed slight virilization changes, despite being given huge doses. Such side effects were also reversed after they stopped taking Anadrol. This is also what we see anecdotally among our female patients.

12.5 mg–25 mg is considered an effective dose for women wanting to experience significant strength and muscle gains on Anadrol. These are very modest doses compared to the studies cited above, further preventing the risk of virilization.

Women should also be wary about the liver toxicity of Anadrol. Therefore, women should supplement with TUDCA and refrain from drinking alcohol.

Is Anadrol Legal?

Anadrol is illegal to take (for bodybuilding purposes) in most countries unless a doctor has prescribed it for medical reasons.

In the U.S., Anadrol is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance, following the Controlled Substances Act.

Thus, buying or selling Anadrol can result in prison time if caught. Possession of Anadrol (or other steroids) can result in a 1-year prison sentence and a minimum fine of $1,000. Prison time and fines increase for repeat offenses.

Selling steroids can result in up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. This is applicable to first-time offenders. Fines and prison time can double for a second offense.

Anadrol can be legally bought in Mexico and Thailand (despite it being an S-controlled substance in the latter country).

Anadrol Results: Before and After Transformation

Due to Anadrol’s short esters, its effects can be experienced in the early stages of a cycle. We find that users can observe subtle changes in body composition within the first few days.

In our experience, one cycle of Anadrol can result in 30 lbs of weight gain and 60 lbs of added strength on the three big compound lifts. Additional cycles can lead to enhanced results, especially when stacked with other steroids.

Below are the results from a bodybuilder who took Anadrol and Deca Durabolin for a year.

As you can see, his muscle hypertrophy has dramatically increased since he started taking Anadrol and Deca Durabolin. He hasn’t gained any notable amount of fat, but his muscles appear smoother and puffier due to some water retention. These results are typical after a few cycles of Anadrol.

Are Anadrol’s Results Permanent?

We find the lean muscle gains experienced on Anadrol are often permanent. Just over half of the weight a user gains from Anadrol will be lean muscle (the rest will be water).

Thus, if a person gains 35 lbs from a 6-week cycle, roughly 20 lbs will be lean muscle (which will remain after coming off the steroid).

To increase muscle retention post-cycle, our patients will utilize an effective post-cycle therapy and continue training hard. Once a person stops lifting weights, lean muscle gains from Anadrol will diminish.

Injectable Anadrol vs. Orals

Some people believe that by taking injectable Anadrol, you won’t strain your liver. This, however, is false. Although it will bypass the liver upon entry into the bloodstream, it will have to process through the liver upon exiting your body.

Thus, we record injectable Anadrol as being less hepatotoxic than oral Anadrol; however, it still strains the organ. With injectable Anadrol, you are getting 100% of the true dose, as it is not being broken down by the liver. With orals, they are C-17 alpha-alkylated, so a very high percentage of the steroid remains active, although your body won’t be utilizing 100% of the dose.

Furthermore, we find injectable Anadrol is more difficult to get hold of compared to orals, so there is no significant benefit to taking injectable Anadrol over oral Anadrol, other than slightly less liver strain.

Note: Liver strain is not particularly concerning with Anadrol if a moderate dose or cycle is performed.

Anadrol Dosage

Male bodybuilders will often take 50–100 mg of Anadrol per day for 4–8 weeks.

An effective dose for women looking to build muscle is 12.5–25 mg per day for 4-6 weeks.

Due to Anadrol’s short half-life of 5–9 hours (21), doses should be split up and taken regularly throughout the day. Anadrol typically contains pills in 50 mg doses; thus, by using a pill cutter, you can give yourself 2-4 doses each day.

Anadrol pills are fat-soluble; therefore, eating them with food may decrease their biological availability and hinder results. Thus, for best results, take Anadrol on an empty stomach.

The higher the dose, the more side effects a user will experience. Anything over 100 mg per day will dramatically increase side effects without much benefit in terms of results.

Anadrol Stacks

Anadrol is commonly stacked with powerful injectable steroids, such as:

• Testosterone
• Deca Durabolin
• Trenbolone

We see such stacks leading to further mass and strength gains, but also increased side effects. Stacking multiple steroids together will exacerbate testosterone suppression, cholesterol values, and blood pressure.

With Anadrol being a harsh steroid, it would be wiser to stack it with a mild injectable steroid such as Deca Durabolin, as opposed to trenbolone. Testosterone is also a less toxic option.

Like Dianabol, Anadrol can be cycled alone with excellent results, especially if the user is a novice to oxymetholone. Once users have built up a tolerance to Anadrol by cycling it once, they may stack other steroids with it.

Here are some sample Anadrol cycles that bodybuilders use today.

Anadrol-Only Protocol

This cycle is commonly taken by novices who haven’t used Anadrol before. Although Anadrol is not generally recommended for beginners, the above cycle may be tolerable due to lower doses.

Anadrol-Only (Experienced Users)

The above cycle is tailored for experienced steroid users, hence the higher dose and extended duration.

Anadrol and Testosterone Stack

Anadrol and testosterone are an efficacious duo we have seen for building:

1. Size
2. Strength
3. Mass

This stack is suitable for experienced users only.

With the addition of testosterone, the risk of gynecomastia increases due to higher estrogen levels. Thus, we typically prescribe a SERM during this cycle, such as Nolvadex.

SERMs (selective estrogen receptor modulators) essentially block estrogen’s effects directly in the breast tissue, thus preventing the onset of gynecomastia.

Anadrol, Testosterone, and Trenbolone Stack

Note: The above cycle is only utilized by very experienced steroid users.

This is a highly toxic stack despite yielding significant mass and strength gains. Rich Piana hailed it as his “best-ever cycle” (22). The specific testosterone he used was Sustanon 250 and trenbolone acetate. However, he stated that he did not utilize this cycle often, as it is very taxing on the body.

Hormonally, we find this stack to be very estrogenic and androgenic. Thus, our patients will often take an AI (aromatase inhibitor) to reduce testosterone’s estrogenic side effects. This is usually letrozole or anastrozole. A SERM such as Nolvadex may also be used to prevent the direct stimulation of estrogen in the mammary gland (from Anadrol).

Regular cardio should be performed throughout this cycle to lower blood pressure while avoiding stimulants and high-sodium foods.

It is difficult to prevent androgenic effects from occurring; however, we find these effects aren’t particularly damaging to a man’s health (such as acne or male-pattern baldness).

We have not come across a trio of steroids that produce the same level of strength and mass as these. Equally, it is one of the most compromising cycles in terms of side effects.

Anadrol PCT (Post-Cycle Therapy)

Post-cycle therapy is needed after taking Anadrol, as testosterone levels will become very suppressed, affecting mental well-being, energy levels, libido, and results.

In order to recover endogenous testosterone production, an aggressive PCT protocol should be administered. This is especially true if a user is stacking Anadrol with other anabolic steroids.

We typically adopt the following protocol:

• hCG: 2000 IU administered every other day for 20 days
• Tamoxifen (Nolvadex): 2 x 20 mg for 45 days
• Clomiphene (Clomid): 2 x 50 mg for 30 days

This PCT was created by Dr. Michael Scally, a hormone replacement expert. This trio of drugs has been effective in treating 19 men with low testosterone levels (from the use of anabolic steroids).

45 days after using this PCT, all of the men’s testosterone levels fully recovered to normal levels.

Dr. Scally has treated over 100 men for hypogonadism, giving him specialist knowledge and experience in this area.

A PCT should begin as soon as Anadrol has left the user’s body. We can calculate this using Anadrol’s half-life (8–9 hours). To work out when the drug has fully left the body, you multiply the half-life by 5.5, giving us the following sum: 5.5 x 9 hours.

Thus, a PCT for Anadrol should begin 49.5 hours after the last dose. If other drugs are combined with Anadrol, you need to calculate when they will also leave the body. In this scenario, start the PCT when the last steroid has left your system, i.e., the one with the longest half-life.

When using this aggressive PCT, we typically see endogenous testosterone production recover after 2 months. 

Where Do Bodybuilders Buy Anadrol?

Anadrol is illegal in most countries, so bodybuilders buy it through the black market.

Anadrol can be bought conveniently at a local store or pharmacy only in countries where it’s 100% legal (i.e., Mexico).

Bodybuilders may buy Anadrol from someone they know or an online website. There are two possible grades: pharmaceutical grade and underground lab.

Pharmaceutical-grade Anadrol is created by scientists in a lab for medical purposes. Thus, when you buy genuine pharma-grade, it is 100% legitimate. This can be purchased on the black market if someone has been prescribed Anadrol for their anemia. So if they haven’t taken their medication, they may decide to sell it.

Underground lab (UGL) Anadrol products are essentially individuals formulating the drug themselves. Thus, we find the risks associated with buying UGL steroids from unknown sellers to be high due to a lack of regulations and non-medical expertise.

Pharma Anadrol is rare, so most of the Anadrol people buy is UGL. Due to its authenticity and scarcity, pharma-grade Anadrol is significantly more expensive than UGL.

Due to the possible risk of Anadrol containing dangerous substances or being a placebo pill, people are advised to only trust sources on the black market that can be verified by someone they trust.

Buying from unknown websites with no reviews or trusting someone at your gym, where no one can vouch for the product, increases the chances of being scammed.

Anadrol Price

The typical price of Anadrol on the black market is:

• 100 x 50 mg pills = $85.

This will last just over 6 weeks, taking 100 mg a day.

Or, it can last for 2 x 6-week cycles on 50 mg per day.

We have retrieved this price from an anonymous source. Prices will naturally be higher than this for pharmaceutical-grade Anadrol.

Anadrol Brands

The following brands of Anadrol are pharmaceutical-grade: these are still available today and may be found on the black market.

Note: These are not legal to buy or sell, as they are produced in certified labs for medical purposes only.

Anapolon

Manufactured in Turkey by Abdi Ibrahim. This brand contains 20 x 50 mg tablets.

Oxymetholone-Alhavi

This is produced in Iran and contains 100 x 50 mg tablets.

Oxymetholone IH

This is another Iranian brand, containing 100 pills.

Oxyanabolic

Manufactured by Asia Pharma in Thailand. Boxes come with unique ID numbers, which can be verified on the official Asia Pharma website to prove authenticity.

Androlic

Produced by British Dispensay, located in Thailand. These are green pills that have BD and their snake logo embedded on opposing sides.

British Dispensay implemented a holographic sticker to prevent counterfeit products; however, fraudsters have duplicated this skillfully.

Anapolon, Balkan Pharmaceuticals

This is produced in Moldova, containing 20 x 50 mg pills.

Oxybolone

Manufactured by Genepharm in Greece. 20 x 50 mg pills.

Diet on Anadrol

A person’s diet is particularly important when taking Anadrol in regard to water retention. We find bodybuilders often report excessive bloating on Anadrol when eating unhealthy foods in the off-season.

This combination of a high sodium diet and the estrogenic nature of Anadrol causes water to spill outside the muscle cells, giving them a puffy appearance. Facial and stomach bloating are also common.

Our patients have found that drinking lots of water and maintaining a clean diet effectively prevents water retention. When a person drinks more water, it causes the body to flush out existing water in the body as a self-defense mechanism.

Junk food (high sodium) is not a beneficial idea when taking Anadrol.

Eating unrefined carbohydrate sources, such as fruit, whole wheat pasta, whole grain rice, oatmeal, and wholemeal bread, is advantageous, as refined carbs may exacerbate fluid retention, contributing to heightened blood pressure.

Some salty foods that should be avoided are salted nuts, bacon, sausage, anchovies, ham, baked beans, and tuna. Fish sources such as haddock and salmon are better, lower-salt alternatives.

We have also found that limiting the intake of dairy products can reduce bloating in some individuals (23).

FAQs

Does Anadrol Suppress Your Appetite?

Anadrol is designed to stimulate appetite, enabling users to gain weight quickly. However, if doses are too high or the person doesn’t respond well, we find it sometimes decreases appetite. This is usually the result of excess liver strain.

When the liver is being taxed, as a defense mechanism, the body reduces appetite in a bid to decrease the amount of food the organ has to process. This essentially reduces the liver’s workload.

Can You Use Anadrol for Cutting?

Anadrol can be used on a cut to increase:

1. Fat burning
2. Muscle fullness
3. Muscle tissue retention

However, it is not generally taken during a cutting cycle due to extracellular water retention. This has the potential to decrease muscle definition and increase bloating, which may not be aesthetically pleasing when trying to burn fat.

However, we know of bodybuilders and men’s physique competitors that will cycle Anadrol just before a show to increase muscle size and fullness. This can be done without significant increases in water retention if a person is lean and keeps their diet clean.

Does Anadrol Negatively Affect Cardio?

In short, yes.

Due to the weight gain on Anadrol, we often discover that cardiovascular activities can become increasingly difficult.

Also on Anadrol, the blood becomes more viscous due to a dramatic rise in red blood cell count. Consequently, blood flow becomes impeded, making it easier to get out of breath.

However, cardio shouldn’t be avoided, as it has the potential to reduce blood pressure and increase circulation. This can help negate some of the adverse effects of Anadrol (including strain on the heart).

Anadrol vs. Trenbolone

Anadrol and trenbolone are very different steroids. Both are fast-acting; however, Anadrol 50 is an oral and trenbolone is an injectable.

Anadrol causes significant amounts of water retention, while trenbolone is a dry steroid. Therefore, almost all of the weight gained on tren will be lean muscle mass, making it a more aesthetically pleasing drug for some bodybuilders.

Trenbolone is the more efficacious steroid for cutting purposes due to its superior fat-burning properties. We see tren also helps users look more vascular due to its diuretic properties (less water collecting between the muscle and skin).

However, both are harsh steroids that will:

• Elevate blood pressure
• Shut down testosterone
• Cause androgenic side effects
• Poses risks to the liver

Trenbolone does have the ability to raise liver enzymes, as seen in our LFTs. However, this effect is thought to be less than on Anadrol.

Both of these compounds complement each other when stacked together. However, this stack will also produce some of the worst side effects among all steroids.

Anadrol vs. Deca Durabolin

Deca Durabolin is a bulking steroid like Anadrol, but a milder compound.

Deca is an injectable steroid, whereas Anadrol is mostly in pill form.

Unlike Anadrol, which causes effects within the first few days of a cycle, Deca, with its long esters, is slow-acting. Thus, Deca cycles are typically longer than those of Anadrol (usually 8–10 weeks), as it takes longer to kick in.

We find that muscle and strength gains on Anadrol will be superior compared to Deca Durabolin, simply because the former is more anabolic.

Deca is not estrogenic; however, we do see some estrogen-like side effects occur due to moderate progesterone activity. However, the risk of gynecomastia and bloating is notably less on Deca.

Androgenic side effects will also be significantly less on Deca compared to Anadrol, so if you are prone to acne or are worried about hair loss, Deca is the better steroid.

In our experience, Deca often needs to be stacked with other steroids in order to see significant gains in muscle mass, whereas Anadrol is a potent drug by itself.

Anadrol vs. Testosterone

Testosterone is mostly an injectable steroid, whereas Anadrol 50 is an oral steroid.

These two steroids have somewhat similar effects. Both are effective for adding lean mass and increasing strength; however, Anadrol will produce more water retention.

Weight gain is often more noticeable on Anadrol; however, lean muscle gains will be somewhat similar. Our patients report that Anadrol is the superior steroid for strength purposes.

Testosterone is more suitable for beginners as it’s less toxic to the body. We find that testosterone-only cycles are considerably better tolerated among novices compared to Anadrol.

Both steroids will produce estrogenic, androgenic, and cardiovascular side effects. However, Anadrol often intensifies these side effects.

Anadrol vs. Anavar

Anavar is another oral steroid and a DHT derivative like Anadrol.

Anavar is predominantly used during cutting cycles due to its fat-burning effects and being a dry steroid with no water retention. Anadrol, however, is a wet steroid due to its estrogenic nature.

Anadrol will cause a lot of weight gain, whereas Anavar won’t.

Anavar is a better fat burner due to its stimulation of T3 levels in the thyroid.

Anavar will increase lean muscle mass, but considerably less than Anadrol.

Anavar is a less toxic steroid in regard to side effects, and thus it is popular among beginners and women. In medicine, Anavar is even prescribed to children and is deemed safe.

Anadrol is a lot more toxic than Anavar in our testing, producing more severe side effects. Particularly in regard to:

• Blood pressure
• Testosterone suppression
• Estrogenic effects

Should I Take Anadrol With Grapefruit Juice?

There was a study that measured whether grapefruit significantly increased the absorption and bioavailability of the sex steroids estradiol and progesterone.

Surprisingly, 200 ml of grapefruit juice increased estradiol by 117% and progesterone by 125% 24 hours after consumption (24).

In another study, researchers wanted to see if blood pressure medication, when taken with alcohol, had any interactions. To disguise the taste of alcohol, they mixed it with grapefruit juice.

They concluded that alcohol had no interactions with the medications; however, grapefruit juice increased the absorption of the medication in the bloodstream by fivefold.

The science behind grapefruit juice increasing the absorption of medications is that it inhibits an enzyme in the liver and intestines known as CYP3A4.

CYP3A4’s job is to remove foreign molecules by detecting toxins in the body. This process greatly decreases the biological availability of many drugs.

It is believed that flavonoids and/or furanocoumarins present in grapefruit juice are what inhibit CYP3A4 from functioning properly (25).

Another study found that grapefruit juice’s CYP3A4-inhibiting effect was most effective when drunk 1 hour before taking the medication (26).

Research has shown that grapefruit can cause this effect for up to 24 hours, of which 1/3 of the effect still remains.

We have had patients drink 250 ml of grapefruit juice every 12 hours, which kept CYP3A4 consistently deactivated throughout the day.

Interestingly, many medications will say on the box: do not drink with grapefruit juice, as medications are obviously dosed based upon the CYP3A4 enzyme working as normal.

There have been no studies conducted on mixing grapefruit juice with oral anabolic steroids; however, anecdotally, we have seen this work. However, if users are going to drink grapefruit juice orally, they need to be cautious of overdosing, as 50 mg of Anadrol may effectively double with the inhibition of CYP3A4.

Thus, this methodology has the potential to increase results but also the severity of side effects.

If this protocol is successful, the cost of an oral cycle may effectively decrease, as users will be able to take fewer tablets for the same level of results.

Note: Research shows that eating grapefruit is also effective in blocking CYP3A4.

Can I Use Anadrol Year-Round?

This certainly isn’t recommended, as Anadrol is one of the harshest steroids you can take. This will almost certainly:

1. Cause damage to the heart.
2. Impair endogenous testosterone production.
3. Place excessive strain on the liver.

Also, there is not much benefit to doing this, as gains will plateau due to your body adapting to the steroid.

You don’t want to condition your body to need mega doses of Anadrol in order to make further gains, which can be the case if someone chooses to blast and cruise Anadrol.

Testosterone is a less toxic steroid for blasting and cruising.

My Anadrol Is Not Working (Even After 400 MG/Day)

Bodybuilders rarely take more than 100 mg of Anadrol per day, as this is considered a high dose.

Many bodybuilders will verify that Anadrol is one of the most potent and toxic PEDs. Thus, users will feel its effects. Therefore, the “Anadrol” in this instance is likely not authentic oxymetholone.

How Do I Know if My Anadrol Is Real?

You can simply order a testing kit online. With different tests, you can detect the substance and its purity. This will tell you if it is real Anadrol and how many mg’s are actually in the pill.

These tests are often inexpensive and worth doing from a safety perspective.

Will Anadrol Shrink My Testicles?

There is a strong chance that a man’s testicles will decrease in size on Anadrol, signifying a lower sperm count (27).

This is the consequence of lowered endogenous testosterone production. This effect can be quite severe, hence why a powerful PCT protocol is needed to quickly restore normal test levels and sperm count.

Several months (4–12) after using Anadrol or other steroids, we commonly see users’ testicles return to their normal size.

Will Anadrol Show up on a Drug Test?

This depends on the type of test.

For example, if someone is in the police or army, they are often tested for other substances such as amphetamines, cocaine, and marijuana. Thus, steroids generally won’t cause a failed test. Hence, Ronnie Coleman was able to be a police officer and not have any problems.

However, if someone suspects you are taking steroids after you talk openly about your use, it’s possible for them to order a steroid test specifically for you to take. Although talking so abrasively about steroid use in such environments isn’t common, as people generally don’t want to get caught.

If you are a bodybuilder competing in a natural show and they conduct random testing, they will be testing for Anadrol, among other anabolic steroids. Thus, as you do not know the date of the test, it is likely you will fail this test.

However, if there is a set date for a test, you can pass it by coming off Anadrol two months prior.

Anadrol’s detection time is 2 months.

Thus, from your last dose until this time, trace amounts remain biologically present, which can cause a failed test. If a user leaves plenty of time and cycles off 2.5 months before a test, they will be fine.

If the person has taken any other steroids in the past, alongside Anadrol, they will need to calculate the detection times of those too.

Should I Take Anadrol Before a Workout?

This is an effective strategy for enhanced energy, strength, pumps, and motivation in the gym.

However, Anadrol should be divided into multiple doses throughout the day to maintain maximum concentrations of the compound in your bloodstream. So, only 1/3 or 1/2 of your daily dose should be taken pre-workout.

I Can’t Sleep on Anadrol

We have found that anabolic steroids, including Anadrol, can cause insomnia in some users due to excessive CNS stimulation.

If this is negatively affecting sleep duration or quality for a sustained period of time, users should take Anadrol earlier in the day, or the dose should be lowered. This is the optimal protocol rather than taking medications such as diazepam, as they put further strain on the liver (28). Even natural sedative supplements, such as valerian root, are capable of having an adverse effect on liver values.

Also, if you are suffering from insomnia, completing your workout earlier in the day may help, as weight training stimulates the nervous system and increases adrenaline levels before bed.

We find that consuming tea, coffee, energy drinks, or pre-workout supplements also negatively impacts sleep due to the caffeine content (29). Thus, avoiding or decreasing the number of stimulants in a person’s diet will help.

Anadrol Summary: Pros vs. Cons

Pros

• Significant muscle gains
• Large strength increases
• Easy to take (oral)
• Low incidences of masculinization in women (according to studies)

Cons

• High blood pressure
• Testosterone suppression
• Water retention
• Liver toxic
• Gynecomastia risk

We do not encourage the use of Anadrol; however, if readers are going to use this compound, they should get regular checkups with their doctor to monitor their health.

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