HCG

HCG is effective when used with other compounds rather than it being used alone and while it has seen some mainstream promotion as a failed (and illegal) weight loss ingredient, HCG’s real power lies in its ability to help steroid users achieve a major goal after a steroid cycle: to get natural testosterone back on track again.

What is HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)?

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a hormone naturally found in women and has an important role to play in pregnancy; in fact the hormone is only formed once a woman is pregnant as it is produced after implantation by the placenta and once HCG levels rise enough it is enough to confirm if a woman is pregnant.

If you’re a male steroid user you might then wonder how or why such a hormone could possible be of use to you. HCG does have a medical role for men: to treat low testosterone or hypogonadism.

Steroid users find HCG useful because it functions almost exactly like luteinizing hormone (LH). LH can be described as a pituitary analog to HCG because they are hormones produced in different parts of the body (luteinizing hormone forms in the pituitary gland) but have a similar function.

This is where HCG becomes very relevant to men: LH is vital for stimulating natural testosterone production. This is what makes HCG a popular option for PCT usage in particular, where the recovery of normal testosterone function following anabolic steroid suppression is required.

While SERMs and aromatase inhibitors are generally widely accepted as a necessary addition for any steroid user, HCG comes under much more debate with some anabolic steroid users swearing by its use, and others finding that it is not necessary or useful or comes with a greater risk than the other drugs.

In any case, when HCG is used it is rarely used alone but in conjunction with SERMs in post cycle therapy and only at low doses for short periods of time if used during a steroid cycle.

Although considered a side effect friendly hormone for most people, HCG comes with one particular risk factor that we need to be concerned about, and this revolves around dependence.

Thankfully this can be well controlled through sensible dosing and is a critical reason why HCG shouldn’t be taken until you’ve done adequate research into just how much you should be taking so you don’t put yourself at risk of dependence.

HCG and Steroids

For steroid users who make use of HCG while using anabolic steroids the intent is to use this hormone to address the suppression of natural hormones that takes place when you use most types of steroids.

During this time your normal testosterone production and levels will be extremely low or even non-existent and the use of HCG during steroid use can prevent the problem of testicular atrophy but more importantly, taking HCG during a steroid cycle helps prime the body for recovery once your cycle ends.

So what’s the downside to HCG and why doesn’t everyone just use it during a cycle? One of the commonly overlooked issues is the way the male body can become dependent on HCG’s supply of what is basically exogenous luteinizing hormone. Guys who take too much HCG or don’t seriously regulate use of it are at higher risk of dependence.

Those men who go overboard with their use of HCG during a steroid cycle, either through lack of knowledge or a false belief that more equals better, can quickly find themself suffering with a low testosterone condition. Those who know how to use HCG responsibly during a steroid cycle however will reap the benefits and avoid the problem of dependence occurring.

HCG vs Aromatase Inhibitors vs SERMs

HCG is very different from both SERMs and aromatase inhibitors (AIs).

Both SERMs and AIs are medications that have been designed to either block specific estrogen receptors (in the case of SERMs), or to lower overall estrogen levels (AIs). HCG on the other hand is a naturally occurring hormone produced in women once they fall pregnant.

HCG does not target estrogen in any way, but instead is able to directly help stimulate testosterone in men because it works in a very similar way to luteinizing hormone.

Both SERMs and AIs are mainly used to treat breast cancer in women. HCG is used medically to treat low testosterone and infertility and men, as well as fertility problems in women. All three categories of substances are therefore available with a prescription. While both SERMs and AIs are available as different products with slightly differing chemical structures and effects between them, HCG is the only one of the three that is a single hormone with no variation between products.

HCG is available in injection form only, while AI and SERM drugs are oral tablets that need to be taken more regularly than the once or twice weekly injections that HCG is normally administered by.

HCG is not intended to replace either SERMs or AIs at any point during or after a steroid cycle. Instead it is can be a very useful addition but one that needs to be used carefully and with knowledge of both how to dose it properly and what it can and can’t do both in benefits and side effects. Over-use of HCG can have the opposite of your intended effect: instead of improving or restoring your testosterone you could find yourself back in a low testosterone state.

HCG for Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)

Post cycle therapy use of HCG is the most common reason guys will use this hormone for the purpose of optimizing recovery after a steroid cycle. The power of this hormone for PCT use comes with taking it before starting a SERM cycle.

Most PCT plans will include either or both of the SERMs Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) and Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate) and while these are generally very effective on their own, many steroid users find that adding HCG to the PCT phase provides enhanced recovery benefits.

The strategy here is to make use of HCG prior to starting your regular SERM dosage, with HCG essentially acting as a kick start to the hormone production process thanks to the way it mimics luteinizing hormone. The SERMs then take over for the rest of your PCT cycle, providing a more efficient and effective recovery.

This type of PCT plan provides for the two main purposes of post cycle therapy: to help you maintain your gains and to speed up the restart of natural testosterone production; this hormone will be in a greatly suppressed state at the end of your steroid cycle in most cases and without a proper PCT plan the rate of recovery is extremely slow which puts you in the certain position of low testosterone and the associated symptoms and muscle loss.

HCG will usually be started within a 4 to 6 week period after the end of your steroid cycle but the timing will depend on the steroid compounds you’ve used. Those who are concerned about possible estrogenic side effects from using HCG during PCT, because of increased aromatase activity, might also choose to include an aromatase inhibitor into their PCT plan.

This is not always an effective idea because AIs come with their own set of issues when it comes to potentially negatively impacting on testosterone levels because of powerful estrogen suppression; in general, HCG is utilized for a short time frame during PCT so side effects are not a great concern for most users.

HCG Dosage

Whichever purpose you are using HCG for – on cycle or for PCT – the dosage and administration of this hormone is very sparse and controlled and unlike that of any other compound you will be using whether that be steroids themselves or drugs like SERMs and AIs.

When buying HCG from your chosen source you will normally receive a small packet of powder containing the active ingredients and another with sterile water in it. These two items are to be mixed together to form your injectable ingredient. Any left over must be refrigerated for later use – do not store the solution at room temperature.

HCG Dosage During Anabolic Steroid Use

When using HCG during your steroid cycle you will want to take it no more than once every 3 to 5 days at a maximum. This will come as some relief since HCG is an injection so you won’t have to be adding an extra injection to your steroid program too often.

A very low dose of HCG during this time is considered sufficient and this is usually in the realm of 250iu. There is no benefit to increasing the dose beyond this level, nor the frequency of administration.

This modest dosage is enough to give you all the benefits you want from HCG without putting your future testosterone restoration at risk by having the body become dependent on HCG which is an increased risk when you increase the dose – therefore, 250iu once every 5 days is suitable for the vast majority of male steroid users while on cycle.

HCG Dosage for Increased Endogenous Testosterone Secretion and PCT

HCG is most commonly used as a kick start to your PCT cycle in preparation for the use of SERMs afterwards. The length and dose of HCG during this time should be determined on how powerful your steroid cycle was and the level of testosterone suppression it is likely to have caused. This can be difficult for new steroid users to gauge initially so a lower HCG dose is advised in those circumstances.

Many users will take HCG for a period of two to three weeks with doses every 3 or 4 days starting at 1000iu at the low end right up to 4000iu. This higher dosage is advised only for advanced users who have used HCG previously and understand its effects. Following this short HCG cycle, SERM administration can begin to carry through the rest of your PCT phase.

Female HCG Dosage

HCG is very useful medically for females for the purpose of improving fertility, but it has no use for women who are using steroids. Men experience suppressed testosterone from most steroids but this is clearly not an issue that female steroid users need to be concerned with, therefore the use of HCG is not warranted by women outside of medical use.

HCG Side Effects

One of the great positive about HCG is that side effects are rare to non-existent. Unlike other substances used by steroid users like SERMs and AIs, HCG is not a drug developed in a lab but instead is a naturally occurring hormone. This means we don’t have to worry about adverse effects like headaches, upset stomach or other common problems that come about with the use of powerful medications.

HCG can raise testosterone levels so the main effects to watch out for relate to rising levels of the hormone and these can actually come in the form of an estrogenic nature. Water retention and gynecomastia are possible but are considered rare particularly because HCG is not often used on its own but instead combined with anti-estrogen drugs that will themselves mitigate these side effects when you are on a steroid cycle.

Because of the increase in circulating testosterone and DHT, androgenic side effects can be a concern and this might include increased oily skin and acne, increased body hair growth, and hair loss on the head but the risk of these adverse effects is highly individual and usually only affect men who are genetically predisposed to them, in the same way that androgenic side effects come about from steroid use.

With the use of HCG during post cycle therapy you are likely to be using it at higher doses, this is balanced by the fact that your use of HCG is also likely to be only for a short period of time so the risk of side effects during PCT is again quite low. All of these factors make HCG a hormone that is unlikely to cause you many or any problems at all and possibly is the most side effect friendly substance you will take at any time of anabolic steroid use.

The greatest risk with HCG is not in the form of traditional types of side effects that we see with steroids or other drugs, but rather whether the body starts becoming dependent on the external form of luteinizing hormone that you’re consuming.

When this happens you will have the reverse effect occur – instead of testosterone levels rising or maintaining at a healthy level with the help of HCG, you’ll be back down to low testosterone because the testicles have become reliant on the amount of HCG you’re taking in. This is avoided with low dosing and only using HCG for a minimal period of time.

In Conclusion:

HCG can be a short term and extremely helpful addition to any PCT regimen when used properly. But because of it’s tricky nature and it’s many nuances we think it wise to consult an experienced person in regards to it’s proper use!

For more information on to how to properly incorporate HCG into a post cycle therapy regimen (PCT) protocol, feel free to shoot us a message.

PCT – BEST PRACTICES

Please note – Post Cycle Therapy protocols are always evolving. The below article is a generalization, and may not cover every possible avenue of therapy that would be ideal for YOUR particular situation. We highly recommend contacting a qualified and experienced person for guidance as to the latest and most efficacious protocol for YOU and YOUR individual situation. For this, we strongly suggest that you email the experts here who will be glad to offer you assistance with this matter!

Post cycle therapy (PCT) is the phase when a bodybuilder utilizes medication(s) to restore endogenous (natural) testosterone production.

Anabolic steroids impair HPT (hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular) axis function, as the body detects excessively high serum testosterone levels.

Consequently, the body signals to cease testosterone production in a bid to keep homeostasis, by inhibiting GnRH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone).

This decreases the release of LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) — two hormones crucial for testosterone synthesis.

Thus, when a bodybuilder comes off steroids and exogenous testosterone is removed, natural testosterone often becomes shut down.

This can result in various psychological and physiological side effects, such as:

Decreased well-being
Low libido
Erectile dysfunction
Catabolism (muscle loss)
Decreased sperm count
Testicular atrophy

The severity of the above effects depends on the anabolic steroids used, the dosages and the length of a cycle.

Low testosterone can persist for several weeks or months post-cycle, increasing the likelihood of addiction, due to strong withdrawal symptoms lingering.

The aim of a PCT is to dramatically shorten this process, thus accelerating the recovery of natural testosterone production. Bodybuilders typically utilize any or all of the following medications:

Clomid (clomiphene)
Nolvadex (tamoxifen)
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)

Best PCT Protocol

Referencing one of the leading medical experts in hormone therapy, having specialist knowledge in regards to ASIH (anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism).

After treating hundreds of patients, the Dr. developed a PCT protocol that was used in a clinical report to treat 19 healthy men. All of these men had extremely suppressed testosterone levels, as a result of using Testosterone and Deca Durabolin for 12 weeks.

The following protocol successfully treated 100% of the male subjects, bringing their serum testosterone back to normal levels (within 45 days). This is quite a feat, considering it is common for bodybuilders to experience low testosterone for up to 4 months, following a steroid cycle.

hCG – 2000IU administered every other day for 20 days
Tamoxifen (nolvadex) – 2 x 20mg for 45 days
Clomiphene (clomid) – 2 x 50mg for 30 days

The above post cycle therapy plan should be viewed as aggressive. Thus, if potent AAS are used, it is necessary and very effective.

However, if milder steroids are used (such as Anavar, Primobolan or Turinabol), testosterone levels may only be moderately suppressed (rather than completely shut down).

In this case, all three of these PCT medications taken simultaneously may not be necessary. Instead, one or two of these drugs can be used with great success.

The timing of a PCT is crucial in regards to its effectiveness. If began too early, it may be ineffective, due to exogenous testosterone still being present in the body. If started too late, the body will have already entered a catabolic state, with withdrawal symptoms occurring.

The timing of a PCT should be tailored to the half-life of the steroid(s) taken. If users are taking multiple AAS simultaneously, then a PCT should begin after the last compound clears out of the body i.e. the slowest.

Here is a guide so users know when to start their PCT:

Clomid

Clomid is a SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulator), often prescribed to women as a fertility drug, acting as an ovulatory stimulant.

Clomid increases the secretion of gonadotropins (LH and FSH), via the inhibition of estrogen in various tissues, leading to an increase in endogenous testosterone.

Despite blocking estrogenic effects in many parts of the body, Clomid increases estrogen activity in the liver, causing a positive shift in cholesterol levels. This is particularly useful in regulating blood lipids and easing cardiovascular strain following a cycle.

Clomid Side Effects

Visual changes sometimes occur on Clomid, particularly in high doses or lengthy cycles.

This may include flashes or blurring; however, these are often temporary and subside within a few days/weeks post-cycle.

It is unknown what causes such changes, and in rare cases, they may even be irreversible. If such visual side effects start to occur, users should discontinue Clomid supplementation and visit an ophthalmologist for urgent examination.

More common side effects of Clomid, include:

Flushes
Abdominal discomfort
Nausea
Headaches
Liver stress
Impaired eyesight

Nolvadex

Nolvadex (tamoxifen citrate) is a SERM, commonly prescribed to women with breast cancer, and is regarded as one of the main reasons why the mortality rate for breast-cancer sufferers has significantly dropped in the last decade.

Nolvadex was first synthesized in 1962 and initially prescribed to treat female infertility.

However, it was later observed to have anti-mitogenic effects, reducing the stimulation of breast tissue — beneficial for slowing the growth of breast cancer.

Nolvadex also exhibited cancer-killing properties, due to the blocking of protein kinase C (PKC) via oxidative stress mechanisms.

Today, bodybuilders commonly use Nolvadex to prevent the onset of gynecomastia (accumulation of breast tissue).

As a PCT, Nolvadex works in the same way as Clomid, stimulating LH and FSH production, via the inhibition of estrogen’s negative effects in the hypothalamus (and thus restoring the HPTA axis).

Nolvadex Side Effects

Skin rash
Hot flashes
Decreased white blood cell count
Visual disturbances
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
Liver stress

Uterine sarcoma and endometrial cancer have also been linked with Nolvadex use; however, the risk is very low, being approximately 1 in 500 cases. Such side effects are also correlated with long-term use (more than 2 years).

HCG

HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone produced by women in high quantities in the early stages of pregnancy, facilitating an increase in progesterone, helping to nurture the developing fetus and its surrounding environment (preventing miscarriage).

Bodybuilders take hCG post-cycle due to its ability to elevate luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, thus stimulating the Leydig cells to produce more endogenous testosterone.

HCG has not only been used in the treatment of male hypogonadism but also obesity. It was previously believed that hCG may have a stimulating effect on T3 levels; however, this is not known. Instead, hCG has an appetitive suppressant effect, meaning people could eat very-low-calorie diets, without feeling excessive hunger.

In 1957, hCG became the most prescribed medication for weight loss, due to this powerful (yet indirect) effect on satiety.

Thus, hCG may be particularly beneficial after a cutting cycle to minimize any potential weight gain following steroids.

HCG is regarded as the most effective post cycle therapy medication for treating testicular atrophy (shrinkage), due to its spermatogenesis-inducing effects.

PCT for Women

Post-cycle therapy is often deemed unnecessary for women, which may stem from them having smaller quantities of endogenous testosterone.

As with men, women’s endogenous testosterone production will also shut down, due to the body detecting an excess of this male hormone.

Testosterone remains a crucial hormone in females; greatly affecting their libido, well-being, energy and muscle mass.

With testosterone declining, estrogen will also drop significantly, due to less aromatization (conversion of testosterone into estrogen).

There is anecdotal evidence of female steroid-users experiencing: very low estrogen levels, low mood, diminished libido and depression post-cycle.

Nolvadex has been used as a PCT among women, in a dose range of 5-15mg for up to 4 weeks. Many women are reporting this to have a positive effect on their mood and to accelerate regulation in hormone levels.

However, some of these women are still experiencing 3-6 month delays before menstrual cycles return.

HCG is not an optimal PCT medication for women, with it potentially causing virilization and enlargement of the ovaries.

Clomid may also not be optimal due to ovarian hypersensitivity.

The medical treatment for women deficient in androgens is DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), which is one of the most critical hormones in females, being a key precursor of androgen and estrogen synthesis.

One study found that 50mg/day of DHEA ‘significantly increased’ libido in women over 70 years old when taken for 1 year.

Another study found that a 6-week cycle of DHEA improved sexual function in women, including arousal, orgasm quality and libido. They also found that depression symptoms decreased by 50%, significantly improving mood.

These women took 90mg/day of DHEA for the first 3 weeks, followed by 450mg/day of DHEA for the remaining 3 weeks.

Other research has shown that 50mg/day of DHEA when administered for 3 months, improves well-being in women by 82%. They also reported: greater relaxation, improved sleep, less stress and higher energy levels.

Thus, an effective post cycle therapy for women is:

50mg/day of DHEA for 12 weeks.

FAQs

Is a PCT essential?

A post-cycle therapy is not essential, as natural testosterone levels will eventually recover.

However, a better question may be: ‘Is a PCT optimal?‘. The answer to this is yes, as not only will users retain more of their gains from a cycle, but they will also improve their mental and sexual health.

A PCT may be deemed less essential when taking mild AAS, such as Anavar, with studies showing a moderate reduction of just 45% when taking 20-40mg/day for 12 weeks.

How Do I Know If I Need a PCT?

The most accurate way to know if you need a PCT is to get your testosterone levels checked.

However, if you have reasons for not wanting to see a doctor, you can often tell from the following signs:

Depression
Low libido
Testicular atrophy (shrinkage)

Where Do Bodybuilders Buy PCT medications?

Bodybuilders will either make an appointment with a doctor and hope they will be prescribed necessary PCT medications, or they will purchase them on the black market (in the same way they buy anabolic steroids).

The second method involves asking around and finding a source where you can pay with cash, or by making a payment online (which is riskier if entering your card details).

How Much Do PCT Medications Cost?

A reliable supplier of anabolic steroids has provided us with the UK market price for PCT drugs. We have done a rough conversion into dollars for our American readers.

Clomid 50 (50mg) tablets – $50 / $80
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) 50 (20mg) tablets – $50 / $80
HCG 10,000iu – $220 / $320

Do SARMS Require a PCT?

Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are suppressive, thus a PCT is necessary. However, the severity of the decline in testosterone will determine the PCT protocol and how aggressive it should be.

As with steroids, some SARMs cause greater declines in endogenous testosterone than others.

However, as a general rule if users take one SARM, stick to a low to moderate dosage and cycle it for 8 weeks or less — only a moderate decline in testosterone is likely to occur.

In this case, 3 weeks of Nolvadex will be sufficient in bringing endogenous testosterone levels back to normal, with 30mg/day taken for week 1, 20mg/day for week 2 and 10mg/day for week 3.

If slightly higher dosages are taken or/and lengthier cycles are utilized, Nolvadex can be taken for 4 weeks, starting on 40mg for week 1, then decreasing the dosage by 10mg each week for the remaining 3 weeks.

For a high-dosed SARM cycle, a 4-week Nolvadex PCT may be necessary, being: 40mg/day during weeks 1 and 2, then 20mg/day during week 3 and 4.

Some individuals take more risks with SARMs i.e. stacking multiple compounds together, such as combining Ostarine, RAD-40 and LG simultaneously and utilizing excessive cycles, lasting 12-16 weeks. In this case a more drastic PCT protocol is needed, being Dr. Michael Scally’s combination of:

hCG – 2000IU administered every other day for 20 days
Tamoxifen (nolvadex) – 2 x 20mg for 45 days
Clomiphene (clomid) – 2 x 50mg for 30 days

Note: Some people mistake certain compounds as SARMs, such as cardarine and MK-677. These are not SARMs, and thus do not require a PCT, with cardarine being a fat burner and MK-677 a growth hormone secretagogue. Both of these products are not suppressive.

How Much Muscle Will a PCT Help Keep?

As a general rule, a PCT can help to retain anywhere from 50-75% of lean muscle gains from a cycle.

Mild compounds, such as Anavar or Primobolan, may enable users to retain high amounts of muscle tissue, due to less dramatic peaks in exogenous testosterone levels on-cycle (and thus less endogenous shut down).

Note: It is normal to lose some weight when coming off steroids, particularly when utilizing wet, bulking compounds; with users losing some intracellular and extracellular fluid (that previously accumulated due to high estrogen levels). This should not be confused with losing muscle weight.

PCT Diet & Supplementation

A person’s diet can also help to increase testosterone and anabolism post-cycle.

Doctors recommend eating a diet rich in meat and egg yolks, with cholesterol being a steroid hormone that synthesizes testosterone. Research has also found a link between higher HDL levels and high testosterone males.

Doctors also state that ZMA, D-aspartic acid, Tribulus Terrestris, Maca and Vitamin D3 and Bulbine Natalensis supplements can help to maximize natural testosterone production.

PCT Pros and Cons

Pros:

Increases testosterone production
Improves well-being
Enhances energy
Helps to retain lean muscle
Increases testicular size
Increases libido and erection quality
Improves fertility
Affordable

Cons:

More expense (on top of steroids)
Some medications come with side effects (in sensitive users)

AOD-9604 vs SEMAGLUTIDE

AOD9604 (Growth Hormone Analogue)

AOD9604 is a peptide derived from human growth hormone (HGH) fragment 176-191, itself a derivative of human growth hormone. AOD9604 is a weight loss peptide in the truest sense of the term as it is a targeted fat burner (lipolytic) with limited additional effects. This peptide was specifically developed to maintain the lipolytic (fat burning) fragment of growth hormone without retaining any of the parent molecule’s ability to promote lean body mass accumulation. Research out of Australia shows that AOD9604 increases weight loss 3-fold compared to placebo. It affects beta-3-adrenergic receptors on white fat to boost fat breakdown and may indirectly activate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in white fat cells as well. AOD1604 is one of the most effective peptides for weight loss yet developed, with studies showing as much as a 50% reduction in weight gain over just three-weeks of administration.

This peptide is extremely safe, it is FDA approved, and there are no known health risks associated with AOD 9604 injections, especially when compared to traditional hormone-based weight loss treatments. As with any injection, some common side effects include pain, reddening, and swelling near the injection site.

Semaglutide (GLP-1 Agonist)

Semaglutide is similar in many ways to Liraglutide and is FDA approved for weight management and the treatment of metabolic syndrome. It acts as an agonist of the GLP-1 receptor. Research shows that semaglutide and similar peptides for weight loss work in two different ways. First, Semaglutide can delay gastric emptying and slow intestinal motility to increase feelings of fullness and decrease the rate of rise of blood sugar. Second, Semaglutide can act as a neurotransmitter to reduce the drive to eat in the central nervous system via reductions in the sensation of hunger as well as enhanced feelings of satiety. Semaglutide has been shown to produce a 5% weight loss over 6 months. At one year, average weight loss with semaglutide is 15% of total body weight.

You may know semaglutide as Ozempic, an injectable medication used in people with Type 2 diabetes. Ozempic can help manage blood sugar, and it can also lower the risk of heart attack and stroke if you also have heart disease. You can also find it as an oral pill, called Rybelsus. And Wegovy, a higher-strength version, is approved to help people lose weight.

Semaglutide works by mimicking a gut hormone that causes your pancreas to release insulin, blocks your liver from releasing sugar, and slows down how fast food leaves your stomach. While these actions can be beneficial for Type 2 diabetes and weight loss, they can also cause some side effects.

Some semaglutide side effects can be bothersome and make the medication difficult to tolerate. But the good news is that they usually subside over time. Although rare, there are also some serious side effects to know about. Keep reading to learn more about 10 semaglutide side effects to know about and how to manage them.

1. Nausea and vomiting

Nausea is the most common semaglutide side effect. Up to 20% of people taking it for Type 2 diabetes reported nausea in clinical trials. Nausea is even mire common if you’re taking the higher-dose version for weight loss. Vomiting tends to be less common than nausea.

You’re more likely to experience these side effects with higher doses of semaglutide. That’s why your healthcare provider will raise your dose slowly over a few weeks to minimize these effects. For most people, these side effects should improve over time as your body gets used to the medication.

Eating smaller meals, avoiding high-fat foods, and remaining upright after you eat can also help manage potential nausea and vomiting from semaglutide. But if these side effects are accompanied by severe stomach pain that may or may not spread to your back, get medical attention right away. This could be a signs of pancreatitus, a rare but serious side effect. More on that later.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another common semaglutide side effect. Around 9% of people taking it for Type 2 diabetes and 30% of people taking it for weight loss reported diarrhea during clinical trials.

Similar to nausea and vomiting, you’re more likely to experience diarrhea with higher doses of semaglutide. As mentioned above, your healthcare provider will slowly raise your dose over time to minimize this side effect. Constipation can also happen, but it tends to be less common than diarrhea.

3. Stomach pain

Mild stomach pain is another common stomach-related side effect of semaglutide. Similar to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, this should subside over time. Using the tips listed above can also help minimize this side effect.

Severe stomach pain can be a sign of other side effects, like pancreatitis or gallbladder problems (like gallstones). Contact your healthcare provider right away if this develops.

4. Fatigue

Fatigue is a common side effects of Wegovy, affecting 11% of people taking it in clinical trials. Fatigue was also reported in less than 5% of people taking Ozempic, and it wasn’t reported at all with Rybelsus.

Semaglutide works for weight loss by making you feel less hungry. And eating fewer calories may cause you to feel more tired. Feelings of fatigue should subside as your body adjusts to potential changes in your diet.

5. Low blood sugar

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) isn’t very common if you’re taking semaglutide on its own. That’s because it works by telling your body to release insulin in response to a meal specifically.

But taking semaglutide with other blood sugar-lowering medications, like insulin and sulfonylureas, raises the risk of hypoglycemia. So, your healthcare provider may need to change the dose of these medications when starting semaglutide.

If you have Type 2 diabetes, it’s important to regularly check your blood sugar levels to help avoid hypoglycemia. You may be advised to have an emergency glucagon or glucagon-like product to raise your blood sugar quickly if severe hypoglycemia happens.

6. Pancreatitis

Although rare, pancreatitis has been reported with semaglutide. If it happens, it can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and/or jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes).

Let your healthcare provider know before starting semaglutide if you have a history of acute pancreatitis. They may recommend a different medication for you.

7. Gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease, including gallstones, is possible with semaglutide, but it isn’t common. It was reported in less than 2% of people taking it in clinical trials.

Symptoms of gallbladder problems include upper stomach pain, fever, and jaundice. You may also notice clay-colored stools. Let your healthcare provider know right away if these develop.

Talk to your healthcare provider about ways you can avoid gallbladder problems while taking semaglutide. This may include dietary changes and routine physical activity.

8. Kidney damage

Studies have suggested that semaglutide may have some kidney benefits if you have Type 2 diabetes. But in rare cases, kidney damage has also been reported. This is more likely if you have severe nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea leading to dehydration.

Kidney damage is also more common if you already have kidney problems. Taking medications that cause you to get rid of excess water, like diuretics (water pills), also puts you at risk.

Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidneys if you’re experiencing a lot of stomach-related side effects. Let them know right away if you’re not urinating very much or at all, or notice swelling in your arms or legs.

9. Allergic reactions

Severe allergic reactions to semaglutide are rare, but possible. Call 911 or get immediate medical attention if you have swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or shortness of breath after your dose.

Mild allergic reactions can include itching, rash, or redness at the injection site. Stopping semaglutide isn’t always necessary with mild reactions. But make sure to still tell your healthcare provider about your reaction.

Don’t use oral or injectable semaglutide if you’re allergic to any of their ingredients. And there’s a chance you could have an allergic reaction to semaglutide if you’ve had a reaction to a medication in the same class.

10. Thyroid tumors

Semaglutide has a boxed warning (the strictest warning) from the FDA about a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. This is because animal studies found that rodents developed thyroid tumors when exposed to GLP-1 agonists. However, human studies have yet to confirm this risk.

Still, you shouldn’t take semaglutide if you or your family have a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 2. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice signs or symptoms of thyroid cancer. These include a lump in your neck, and neck or jaw pain.

All this being said, and speaking strictly for myself (I know there will always be some who will argue to the contrary)… I personally feel it is a no-brainer which one to use if your looking for an EFFECTIVE, PROVEN and SAFE fat burning peptide… In my mind it’s AOD-9604 all the way!

Furthermore, there is a lot of evidence to back up these claims that AOD-9604 is the MUCH safer way to go. And truth be known, most of the resources I have personally checked seem to feel AOD-9604 is actually more effective than Semaglutide overall as well.

Safer… More Effective… You do the math.

I just felt it was important information to bring to you, being that these 2 peptides have gained so much attention in recent months… and these are definitely things you want to consider if you’re looking for such a product to help you with your fat loss goals.

… best of luck to you!

3 SAFEST STEROIDS

Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, our staff is available to help you with additional information.

Given the sensitive nature of this article topic, we’d like to clarify that no steroid can be considered 100% safe; especially when bought on the black market for cosmetic purposes.

Anabolic steroids are also illegal, thus unless utilized by a doctor in a strict medical setting; AAS have the potential to cause dangerous side effects to users.

However, certain steroids are safer than others, hence why several AAS are approved by the FDA in medicine (whilst others are not).

It’s worth noting that bodybuilders often consume significantly higher dosages of anabolic steroids, compared to in medical settings; thus increasing the risk of side effects.

Furthermore, bodybuilders often take steroids without having regular checkups with a medical doctor, which is a further risk.

However, below are the mildest and least destructive steroids a bodybuilder can take:

Testosterone

Anavar

Deca Durabolin

Testosterone

Testosterone is an FDA-approved injectable steroid, used to treat millions of men all over the world, who are deficient in natural testosterone.

This is known as testosterone replacement therapy or TRT.

Testosterone was included in the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines, regarded as crucial for treating endocrine disorders.

In 2017, it was the 132nd most prescribed medication throughout the U.S; with over 5 million prescriptions.

From 2001 to 2011 testosterone prescriptions have tripled, indicating a current low testosterone epidemic.

In bodybuilding, testosterone is predominantly used in bulking cycles to add large amounts of muscle and strength; however, it’s also utilized in cutting cycles to retain muscle hypertrophy.

When injected correctly, it can be argued that testosterone is one of the safest steroids available.

Testosterone causes hefty gains in muscle size (20-30lbs) and remains one of the most popular steroids in bodybuilding; despite coming to market over 80 years ago.

If injected incorrectly, any steroid or medication can be dangerous (or fatal).

However, there is oral testosterone available (undecanoate) for those wanting to avoid needles. Oral testosterone is less commonly used in bodybuilding, compared to injectables, due to its higher market price.

Testosterone Side Effects

Testosterone poses little to no hepatic concern (liver stress), due to it being injectable and thus entering the bloodstream immediately; instead of the liver having to filter it.

Oral testosterone (undecanoate) is also safe for the liver, with it being absorbed via the intestinal lymphatic route; thus preventing hepatic strain. One study gave 2,800mg per week of testosterone undecanoate to male subjects for 21 days; yet none of them experienced any hepatotoxic stress, despite such an exceedingly large dose.

Blood Pressure

Testosterone is likely to increase blood pressure, due to a redistribution of HDL/LDL cholesterol levels. However, such cholesterol fluctuations are mild, compared to other anabolic steroids.

There are a couple of reasons why testosterone doesn’t negatively affect blood pressure significantly. Firstly, it converts to estrogen, with the female hormone having a positive effect on blood lipids.

Secondly, testosterone doesn’t pass through the liver, thus failing to stimulate hepatic lipase, an enzyme that can skew cholesterol levels in the wrong direction.

There is evidence oral testosterone may even improve cardiovascular health, when therapeutic doses are administered in overweight men. This however is likely to be correlative, with a reduction in fat mass likely being the culprit for such reductions in BP.

For most bodybuilders taking moderate to high dosages of testosterone, blood pressure will rise; with the severity depending on the dose and cycle duration.

In research, 280mg/week of testosterone enanthate had a very slight negative effect on HDL cholesterol, after 12 weeks.

300mg/week of testosterone (enanthate), when taken for 20 weeks, caused HDL levels to drop by just 13%.

Meanwhile, 600mg/week caused a reduction of 21%.

Note: Taking an AI (aromatase inhibitor) will further spike blood pressure, by inhibiting testosterone to estrogen conversion, thus further decreasing HDL levels.

Estrogenic Side Effects

Testosterone has the ability to cause gynecomastia and water retention, due to its estrogenic nature; however, a SERM (such as Nolvadex) significantly reduces the chances of gyno forming.

Incidents of gynecomastia are particularly rare when combining low doses of testosterone with a SERM.

Androgenic Side Effects

Androgenic side effects, such as hair loss on the scalp, prostate enlargement and acne are possible on testosterone.

Such side effects inspired Dr. Ziegler to create Dianabol, after understanding the Soviet strongmen had to use urinary catheters, as a result of cycling testosterone in the Olympic games.

Thus, Dianabol was formulated to be less androgenic than testosterone — yet more anabolic.

Therefore, despite testosterone’s mild properties, it may not be suitable for someone with existing prostate issues or someone looking to avoid hair loss.

Testosterone Suppression

As with all anabolic steroids, testosterone will decrease endogenous testosterone levels.

Low testosterone thus can be experienced for several months after, unless a PCT (post cycle therapy) is administered to shorten this recovery period.

HCG, Clomid or/and Nolvadex can be taken post-cycle to resurrect a male’s testosterone production.

Anavar (Oxandrolone)

Anavar is an oral steroid, often used in cutting cycles to enhance fat loss and lean muscle gains.

Anavar is one of the few steroids that is adept at building muscle and burning fat simultaneously.

Muscle gains are not extreme on Anavar; however, an increase of 10-15lbs is common.

Anavar is a mild steroid, that remains FDA-approved for medicinal purposes. It is commonly prescribed to patients suffering from bone pain due to osteoporosis; and those needing to gain weight quickly (as a consequence of trauma, infection or surgery).

Interestingly, Anavar can be prescribed to women and children, without them experiencing any notable negative effects.

This demonstrates Anavar’s mild properties, with other steroids causing masculinization in women or/and being too toxic for minors.

In bodybuilding circles, Anavar is nicknamed the ‘girl steroid’, due to it being generally safe for women to take (in low to moderate doses). Many AAS in comparison will enlarge the clitoris, shrink the breasts, cause hair growth on the body; and deepen the voice.

However, many men also take Anavar, not just for bodybuilding purposes; but to dramatically increase muscular strength, power and endurance.

Anavar Side Effects

Liver toxicity

Oral steroids generally don’t have a positive reputation when it comes to liver health.

This is because orals are c-17 alpha alkylated, meaning they are processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream. Consequently, the organ becomes stressed with ALT and AST liver enzymes rising.

However, Anavar is one of the few exceptions to this rule, with it posing considerably less liver toxicity (compared to other orals).

It is not entirely known why this is the case; however, the kidneys playing more of a role in processing oxandrolone, compared to other compounds, may be a reasonable explanation. Thus, decreasing the liver’s workload.

Cholesterol levels

Cholesterol levels will shift in a negative way, thought to be notably less than other steroids; albeit greater than testosterone.

For an oral steroid, Anavar is certainly not the worst compound for the heart; however, its effects are notable.

Research has shown that men taking 20mg/day of Anavar for 12 weeks, experienced a 30% decrease in HDL cholesterol (8).

A 40mg/day dose of Anavar only reduced HDL levels by a further 3% (33% in total).

When taking 80mg/day the reduction was severe, dropping by 50%.

LDL levels also increased in each of the groups, at a similar rate to the drop in HDL.

The typical bodybuilding dose for men is 20mg of Anavar per day. Also is not commonly taken for long periods of time (such as 12 weeks), but more often 6-8 weeks. Thus, a common Anavar cycle will likely yield less than a 30% decrease in HDL cholesterol; likely being closer to 20-25%.

This is not an alarming drop, however certainly something to monitor and take precautions against. Taking 4g/day of fish oil can help prevent such rises in BP, offering some level of cardiovascular protection on-cycle.

Virilization in Women

Although Anavar is viewed as a ‘female friendly’ steroid, virilization (or masculinization) can still occur in women taking high doses of it.

Doses over 10mg/day will increase the likelihood of undesirable effects, plus a cycle lasting beyond 6 weeks.

Doesn’t Aromatize

Anavar doesn’t convert to estrogen which is a positive in regards to body composition, as there will be no water retention. Consequently, this creates dry and full muscle bellies.

Also, there is no risk of gynecomastia on Anavar, due to a lack of aromatization activity.

However, low estrogen is one reason why cholesterol levels are worse on Anavar, compared to testosterone.

Testosterone Suppression

Significant decreases in natural testosterone production is a certainty when taking any steroid.

However, Anavar will not completely shut down users; but instead, cause moderate suppression.

One study reported a 45% reduction in testosterone when male subjects took 20mg and 40mg for 12 weeks.

This is a high dose and an excessive period of time, even by bodybuilding standards.

In comparison, a small dose of Dianabol (15mg), taken for 8 weeks can cause testosterone to drop by 69%.

Users can expect testosterone function to recover within several weeks post-cycle (without a PCT).

However, a PCT may be utilized to speed up this process, which also applies to female users.

Deca Durabolin

Deca Durabolin (Nandrolone) is an FDA-approved injectable steroid, used in medicine to treat anemia, osteoporosis and those suffering from various muscle-wasting diseases.

Deca Durabolin is favoured in medicine and the bodybuilding community, due to its mild nature; yet potent ability to add lean muscle and strength. It is anabolic, like testosterone, yet lacks strong estrogenic and androgenic properties.

In a trial in Sydney (Australia), 17 HIV-positive men took Deca Durabolin for 16 weeks.

They experienced ‘significant increases in weight’ (in the form of lean body mass), whilst ‘no subject experienced toxicity.

Deca Durabolin is one of the most heart-friendly anabolic steroids, with research showing it producing a subtle decrease in HDL cholesterol.

Studies administering 600mg/week of Deca for 10 weeks, saw a 26% reduction in HDL levels.

This effect is slightly worse than testosterone and similar to a moderate dose of Anavar.

Deca Durabolin has weak androgenic properties, thus male pattern baldness, prostate enlargement, and oily skin/acne are unlikely to trouble users.

Deca Durabolin Side Effects

Although Deca Durabolin is considered a ‘safer’ steroid in bodybuilding, it can cause some problematic side effects in other areas.

Arguably the most notorious side effect is ‘Deca dick’, which essentially is erectile dysfunction or impotence. There are two components affected, which are: the inability to get an erection and reduced libido.

One reason why Deca Durabolin may have a particularly negative effect on sexual libido/performance is due to it significantly increasing prolactin levels in the bloodstream.

Prolactin inhibits the production of GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), causing less endogenous testosterone production. This naturally leads to less desire for sex.

Due to Deca Durabolin’s low androgenicity, users can experience less nitric oxide production; which is crucial for optimal blood flow. Thus, erections may become less frequent, or more difficult to attain/sustain.

This is why some bodybuilders stack androgenic compounds with Deca Durabolin, such as testosterone, helping to keep nitric oxide levels high. Also supplementing with cabergoline can keep prolactin levels stable and thus prevent ‘Deca dick’.

Estrogen

Although Deca Durabolin is not regarded as estrogenic, it converts to estrogen at 20% of testosterone.

Deca however has strong progesterone properties, which can stimulate estrogen receptors in the mammary glands; thus still posing a risk of gynecomastia.

High progesterone can also contribute to water retention, causing the typical smooth look bodybuilders possess when taking Deca in the off-season.

Testosterone suppression

A common dose of Deca is 300-400mg per week, whilst stacked with other steroids.

Research has shown 100mg of Deca per week can reduce testosterone by 57%.

The same trial also found 300mg per week lowered test by 70%, thus a PCT should be of high priority post-cycle.

FAQ

What is the Safest Oral Steroid?

The safest oral steroid would be oral testosterone (undecanoate). However, Anavar and Primobolan are also very mild compounds with few side effects.

The most important organs to protect during a steroid cycle are the heart and liver, and these three oral steroids are the least destructive in this regard.

For women, the safest oral is Anavar, with it arguably being the most desirable compound for preserving their femininity.

What is the Safest Steroid Cycle?

Generally, the more steroids you stack together in a cycle — the greater the side effects.

Thus, a testosterone-only cycle is believed to be the mildest protocol, hence why it’s used as the first steroid cycle among beginners. Below is a cautiously dosed testosterone cycle, suitable for novices:

The above testosterone cycle would be classed as a bulking one, with users experiencing large increases in muscular strength and hypertrophy.

An Anavar-only cycle is another popular option for users prioritizing their safety. Male bodybuilders typically take the following dosages, to keep side effects at bay:

This would be seen as a cutting cycle, taken predominantly to enhance fat burning. Anavar is also suitable for users looking to gain small to moderate amounts of muscle simultaneously.

Note: Women on Anavar should take no more than 10mg/day. Below is a typical female Anavar cycle:

Summary

Although no anabolic steroid is 100% safe, some are classed as essential medicines from leading health organizations. Several steroids are also approved by the FDA, yet remain illegal today in most countries. Steroid use only becomes legal when they are prescribed by a medical doctor for underlying health problems.

IMPORTANT NOTE – Another steroid which could easily be added to this list is HEXADRONE. Given that it gives good results for lean muscle building… it is exceptionally mild to the body, plus it helps you shed a little bit of fat at the same time… but it also has the added bonus of acting as a mild aromatase inhibitor. to control estrogen side effects. A truly nice add to many cycle considerations!