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.
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)
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.
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!
A pet peeve of almost any supplier is “window shoppers”.
DON’T BE ONE!
Those are people who come to the supplier asking endless questions, with no intentions of ever really wanting to buy from them.
These are people who either have no real money, or are just looking for free information because they are too lazy to do all the hard research themselves.
Now, if you put yourself in the shoes of the supplier, who are often very busy performing the duties of their trade PLUS helping actual paying customers who deserve their help… this can be very frustrating.
And while most suppliers are good natured and want to help their fellow man with simple issues that they might know the answer to but the less experienced might not… that is all well and good. But savvy, experienced suppliers can and MUST quickly weed out these “tire kickers” and “window shoppers”… those who will ask a ton of questions, but never buy.
They are simply wasting the suppliers time!
So, before you go and start asking your local supplier a ton of endless questions to save yourself the effort of finding things out for yourself with proper research (often which leads to wrong info anyway)… take into consideration the supplier.
Make sure you are serious about buying from them, and are prepared to make your purchase BEFORE you start asking a supplier a bunch of questions!
If you are just looking for information to set up your next planned purchase… and as long as you are going to be BUYING from the supplier you are asking… tell that to your supplier up front so they know how to allocate their time. Many suppliers are very busy!
It isn’t right to ask any supplier a bunch of “help me” questions if you have no intention of BUYING from that supplier. You are just wasting their time. Time that supplier will definitely feel is better spent giving help to those who actually purchased from them.
In short… Don’t be a dick!
Have some common courtesy… if you’re not going to BUY from a supplier, don’t ask him or her a ton of questions looking for free help. You’re just rude and inconsiderate if you do.
Again, most suppliers don’t mind helping a little.. but if you have no intentions of buying from that supplier you should go away and do your research yourself. It’s not fair (or right) to bother a supplier if you are not going to give them your business.
Just think if the shoe were on the other foot… how would you like people swamping you with questions on what to do, how to do it etc… all day… every day… and then they give their business to someone else? That is totally wasting that suppliers time, and that’s screwed up!
If the people you buy from are not there to answer your questions and give you proper support… maybe you’re with the wrong supplier. You should be changing who you deal with!
And it is not unreasonable for a supplier to expect that you will order from him or her if you are there asking them a bunch of questions. Especially if you have done it on more than one occasion. That would only be fair! If they are kind enough to give you the benefit of their time and experience, you should pay back in kind by giving them your business.
If you can’t and don’t see it that way… there is something inherently wrong with you and you probably need your head examined. You’re simply not seeing things right.
This testosterone steroid, like all the ester forms of testosterone we look at, is powerful when used both on its own and when stacked with other steroids. Testosterone stacks extremely well with almost every other steroid and can be used effectively in both cutting and bulking cycles.
Testosterone Cypionate Structure
Testosterone Cypionate can also be used as a supportive hormone compound where you are aiming to replace your testosterone to a normal level when using other steroids that suppress natural testosterone function.
With a relatively long half life, Testosterone Cypionate is usually injected about once per week depending on dosage. People who are using higher doses can opt for a twice weekly injection. Unlike a lot of other steroids, Testosterone Cypionate does not pose a risk for liver toxicity.
Testosterone Cypionate Benefits
Testosterone Cypionate comes with the benefits and effects of all testosterone steroids; the ester attached to it simply controls the release time and in this case results in a slower release steroid that will suit people doing longer cycles.
Some of the big benefits you will experience when using Test Cypionate at a higher dosage for performance and bodybuilding purposes include:
Boosts protein synthesis, nitrogen retention, IGF-1 hormone, and keeps the body in a prime anabolic state to promote muscle growth, fat loss and, endurance muscle repair.
Encourages the growth of lean muscle and the loss of fat making it ideal for a bulking cycle.
It’s also ideal for cutting cycles as it helps retain lean muscle while fat being burnt, while also maintaining strength levels which can often otherwise suffer during heavy dieting phases.
Enhances athletic and muscular performance with increased endurance and the ability to workout longer and harder without tiring as quickly as you normally would, ensuring faster progress towards your results.
Recovery is enhanced with an increase in red blood cells getting greater amounts of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.
All of these benefits and effects are possible with Testosterone Cypionate, but your specific dosage, workout and diet routines will greatly determine just how powerful these effects will be. Your age and genetics also play a role in how this (and any other) steroid will affect you.
Your results are not necessarily going to be the same as the next guy at the gym using the exact same steroid cycle. Testosterone Cypionate provides the power to deliver exceptional results to those who are determined to use the steroid to its maximum potential.
Testosterone Cypionate Dosage
Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Testosterone Cypionate Dosage
Whatever your goals are, your Testosterone Cypionate can be tailored to meet them and this is a steroid that is considered one of the safest to use at bodybuilding doses where muscle gain is the main goal. Regardless of your experience level, the recommended dosage frequency is twice weekly injections to maximize and maintain your blood levels of the steroid.
This is a versatile steroid that can effectively be used from as low as 250mg weekly for beginners, right up to 1000mg per week for advanced users, with intermediate users often settling for 500mg to 700mg weekly for a very effective muscle growth dosage while still being able to control side effects.
While it might be tempting to increase the dosage to above 1000mg to increase gains, doing so also brings about heightened estrogen and androgenic side effects that are not worth the trade-off for the extra gains and dosing this high is not recommended.
Female Testosterone Cypionate Dosage
Very few females will opt to use Testosterone Cypionate due to the strong androgenic side effects that will occur and this is not a recommended steroid compound for women for that reason.
Testosterone Cypionate Cycles
A Testosterone Cypionate cycle can be designed for cutting or bulking and this is a versatile steroid that stacks very well with almost any other steroid out there whether it is used as a primary compound or for testosterone support at lower doses.
Beginner Testosterone Cypionate Cycles
A 12 week cycle with a dosage of between 300mg and 500mg weekly and with no other steroids included makes this a safe, simple and easy to administer testosterone-only cycle for a beginner wanting to gain quality lean mass with minimal side effects.
Testosterone is considered the safest steroid for a beginner to start with until you can determine your own individual response, and then consider adding other steroids into a stack as intermediate and advanced users do.
Intermediate Testosterone Cypionate Cycles
If you’re at the intermediate stage then you will likely want to combine Testosterone Cypionate with other steroids in a stacked cycle, such as Deca-Durabolin and Dianabol.
A typical cycle of this type would include Testosterone Cypionate at 500mg weekly and Deca at 400mg weekly for 12 weeks, with Dianabol providing a kickstart for the first 4 weeks only at 25mg daily.
The primary benefits of this stack for intermediate users is for making big gains in strength and bulk while making use of three of the most popular and widely used steroids in a tried and proven stack cycle.
Advanced Testosterone Cypionate Cycles
Advanced users will often look at using Testosterone Cypionate as a supportive compound only while relying on much more powerful steroids to take on the role of the primary anabolic compound for muscle gains.
An example advanced cycle of 12 weeks includes 200-300mg weekly of Testosterone Cypionate and 600mg per week of Trenbolone Enanthate.
This cycle avoids the side effect of water retention because Testosterone Cypionate is taken at a low enough dose that aromatization can be avoided, and Trenbolone does not aromatize and convert to estrogen; therefore this advanced cycle comes with the added benefit of no estrogen related side effects.
12-Week Dbol/Test C/Tren Cycle
Consider this as an advanced cycle (not for first time users).
(PCT) Week 15-17 – 100mg/day Clomid for the first 10 days, then 50mg/day for 10 more days.
*eod – every other day
For the muscle gains, boost in strength and stamina, better and faster recovery, and the fact you can use it for both bulking and cutting.
Testosterone Cypionate Side Effects
As with all forms of testosterone, the side effects testosterone cypionate will greatly depend on your dosage. When using testosterone steroids at a performance enhancing level we are naturally going to see a greater risk of potential side effects than when using it as a testosterone replacement therapy.
For most men the side effects of Testosterone Cypionate are relatively easy to control with this well-tolerated steroid. As with all testosterone steroids, Testosterone Cypionate aromatizes so estrogen effects like gyno and water retention are possibilities. Aromatase inhibitor drugs can mitigate these side effects.
Testosterone Cypionate is an androgen hormone so these side effects can potentially occur including an increase in skin oil production leading to acne, head baldness and body hair growth. Testosterone Cypionate is not a recommended steroid for women to use due to its powerful androgenic effects.
Testosterone Cypionate FAQs
What does testosterone cypionate do to your body?
Testosterone Cypionate is most often used to promote bulking and mass gains, as well as for strength gains. It can also be used for cutting when taken at lower doses or at a minimal dose to act as a testosterone replacement when you’re using other anabolic steroids that suppress testosterone.
Testosterone cypionate at higher doses simply magnifies what testosterone itself does to the body, and when it comes to bodybuilding this means increasing red blood cell production to boost power, endurance and recovery, boost muscle contraction, improve metabolic activity, increases IGF-1 and boosts nitrogen retention.
What are the side effects of testosterone cypionate?
Higher doses will bring about some expected side effects with testosterone cypionate. These include the impacts of rising estrogen levels, in particular water retention and gynecomastia. Excess water retention can also lead to high blood pressure.
Acne and hair loss are other potential side effects resulting from conversion to DHT. Testosterone cypionate will also suppress normal testosterone function and requires PCT after your cycle.
Does testosterone cypionate help build muscle?
Yes, the main reason bodybuilders use this steroid is to gain big muscle fast. You can bulk up and put on lean mass using this steroid, but you must be able to control water retention by using an aromatase inhibitor so your gains will be quality. Muscle building will be made faster and more efficient with the increased strength you’ll feel in a testosterone cypionate cycle that will allow you to lift heavier and push your workouts harder.
How often should you inject testosterone cypionate?
It has a long half life so you can get away with taking your entire dose in just one injection each week, but ideally you should split your weekly dosage into two and inject testosterone cypionate twice weekly so you guarantee levels of the steroid stay high, and it makes side effects easier to deal with, especially when you’re using higher doses.
Does testosterone cypionate make you gain weight?
You can use Test cypionate for mass gaining and bulking, so you will gain muscle. Water retention is also highly likely so some of your gains are going to be fluid but you can keep this to a minimal level or prevent it completely by combating the estrogenic activity that causes fluid retention by using an aromatase inhibitor drug like Arimidex during your cycle.
How much testosterone cypionate do bodybuilders take?
Dosage varies based on what your goals are and how experienced and confident you are in using steroids and controlling side effects. Most bodybuilders will use around 500mg each week of testosterone cypionate for bulking purposes. Some will start as low as 200mg or 300mg weekly, while hardcore bodybuilders are known to extend right up to 1000mg per week.
How long does testosterone cypionate take to kick in?
This testosterone ester is a long acting steroid with a half life of 8-12 days. This means it’s slow acting compared to some other testosterone esters and it can take four or more weeks until you start seeing really noticeable improvements in strength; sometimes as long as 6 weeks. That’s why your cycle of testosterone cypionate should be at least 12 weeks long.
While setting a new personal record can be unbelievably uplifting, missing the mark after weeks and months of preparation can be even more deflating. Exercise plateaus and setbacks can be extremely frustrating, and can derail even the most ambitious workout plans. To make matters worse, there are a variety of reasons plateaus and setbacks can occur — making it hard to pinpoint the exact cause. To eliminate the guesswork and get you back on track to your fitness goals, we’ve compiled expert-approved strategies for overcoming the most common strength training plateaus.
1. Modify your reps. Doing the same amount of reps week after week is a quick way to suffer from stagnant results, not to mention boredom. After only a few weeks, the body adapts to acute workout variables like sets, reps and rest time. The result is fewer stimuli for new gains in strength. To keep your workout fresh, experiment with different set and rep schemes. For instance, while a few weeks might focus on strength with sets of three to five reps, increase the rep ranges during the subsequent weeks to five to eight reps to change up the workout and spur new muscle growth.
2. Change up the tempo. Not all reps are created equal.There are several strategies within the actual repetition itself that can drastically change the intensity of a workout. When suffering from lack of progress, try slowing down each rep, especially during the lowering portion of the exercise. The slow tempo will boost the amount of time the muscle is under tension, while increasing the overall difficulty of the exercise.
3. Experiment with different exercises. Performing the same exercises week after week can lead to lack of results and a drop off in motivation. Varying your routine is crucial for encouraging progress. Fortunately, lifters don’t have to completely change up their routine to get the benefits of variety. To prevent plateauing, pick one or two exercises in each workout to modify. Here are some quick and easy modifications:
Platform: Move from two legs to one on a body weight squat to increase the difficulty of the movement while incorporating balance, coordination and core work.
Equipment: Instead of using a barbell for dead lifts, grab a pair of dumbbells or kettle bells to add variety and change how the body is loaded during the motion.
Complexity: Combine two exercises into one like a squat and a shoulder press to greatly boost the difficulty of an exercise.
4. Do more soft tissue work. Lack of results often causes individuals to work harder in the gym. In reality, they might need to take it easier. Without proper recovery in between workouts, the body can’t rebuild muscle that has been broken down. This can result in subpar performance and lingering soreness that just won’t go away.
Foam rolling and massage therapy are two great interventions to speed recovery and help relieve soreness. We encourage you to perform self-massage, aka self-myofascial release (SMR), every day. Regular tissue work increases circulation, enhances recovery and reduces scar tissue. So make friends with that foam roller (particularly before and after workouts) and consider scheduling trips to see a skilled massage therapist every few weeks to work on deeper knots.
5. Experiment with variable resistance. The traditional method of loading exercises with barbells and dumbbells provides a constant amount of resistance throughout the movement. By contrast, variable resistance, using bands or chains to change the resistance throughout the movement, is becoming increasingly popular as a way to spice up a routine.
For a barbell back squat, for example, a set of bands can be hooked to the floor and then attached to each end of the barbell. As the lifter descends into the squat, the bands shorten, lessening the tension on the bar and thus the difficulty. However, as the lifter stands up, the bands lengthen, increasing the difficulty of the exercise towards the top of the motion where the lifter is strongest. Try using variable resistance on one or two exercises during your routine to challenge your muscles in a new way.
6. Try partial ranges of motion. In most cases, full range of motion takes the cake for getting the biggest benefit with exercise. In some cases, however, partial ranges of motion can provide a well-needed boost for strength development. Working a specific range of motion affords lifters the ability to get comfortable working with heavier weights and practice a certain part of a lift.
Although this strategy can be extremely useful to boost strength, we caution lifters not to use partials too often. Partial reps can be exceptionally valuable for acclimating the nervous system to heavier weights, but I would incorporate them sparingly [since] over-training a partial range of motion leads to a partial range of strength.
7. Eat more. Think restricting calories is a quick fix for shedding pounds? In reality, this may be preventing gym-goers from seeing results. According to Sulaver, “Poor nutrition tends to be a silent assassin in the gym. When we don’t exactly know why performance is dropping, the first place to look is nutrition.”
To recover from hard workouts, athletes and weekend warriors alike need to be sure they’re taking in enough calories to help their body recover. Determining how many calories are enough can be tricky, but start by tracking intake and taking note of performance and energy levels. If speed of recovery seems to dip along with motivation and energy levels, it might be time for more fuel.
8. Take some time off. First one in, last one out at the gym? In some cases, lack of progress might mean the body needs more time to recharge. Many trainers and coaches often incorporate deload weeks into a workout program to boost recovery in their clients. These weeks are exactly what they sound like — a decrease in workout intensity for a short period of time. But rather than zoning out in front of the TV, focus on quality rest alongside easy movement. We recommend soft tissue work in addition to core training and mobility work. “Thus, the deloading becomes more active rest than complete rest. In severe over-training scenario’s… complete rest may be in order.
Plateaus can happen for a variety of reasons, both positive and negative. On the plus side, they can be a good indicator of hard, consistent training in the gym. They can also signal poor nutrition or inadequate recovery. Although fitness plateaus can be frustrating, they shouldn’t be a death sentence for progress in the gym. Use the tips mentioned above to bust out of a rut and continue to see success in the weight room, on the field or court, or wherever else you get your sweat on!
Testosterone Enanthate, is an anabolic and androgenic steroid (AAS) used to treat low testosterone levels. Anabolic medications work by building muscles, while androgenic suggests the overhaul of male sex characteristics. Used in clinical philosophy since the 1950s, Testosterone Enanthate is showcased under different names, including, Testosterone Heptanoate. As a Class III medication, Testosterone Enanthate is named a controlled substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Effects on the body
The use of Testosterone Enanthate leads to an increase in muscle mass, this is due to the fact that fluid in the body begins to linger, due to the high concentration of sodium. Like Testosterone Propionate, Enanthate stimulates regeneration processes, so it is often used to treat joint diseases and eliminate problems in the intervertebral discs. The action of the steroid is noticeable throughout the body:
Better motivation, there is a surge of strength and there is a desire to exercise more;
General tone rises;
Increased sexual desire;
Spermatogenesis increases;
Increased red blood cell mass;
Improvement of nitrogen metabolism.
Athletes taking Testosterone Enanthate easily increase strength. Therefore, this drug is in demand by both weightlifters and powerlifting.
Ideal Dosage for Testosterone Enanthate
For many medicinal purposes, Testosterone Enanthate is injected intramuscularly about twice a month. To avoid the fluctuating hormone levels (and the related mental states), lower doses are suggested to be routinely injected in-between this time. The dose may change by individual tolerances and the purpose of use. For male hypogonadism, the recommended dose is 50 to 400mg twice a month. For delayed puberty, the dosage is 5 to 200mg twice a month. For breast cancer, 200 to 400mg twice a month. For the purpose of hormone therapy, the recommended and effective dosage ranges between 50mg to 200mg for every week. Sometimes 100mg to 250mg per week can also be administered.
Bodybuilders and athletes who inject Testosterone Enanthate for performance improvement purposes will take between 300-500mg consistently. This range is extraordinarily typical if the hormone is simply being used to fight natural testosterone suppression brought by the use of other anabolic steroids. To get the most extraordinary results out of this steroid, those in the extreme sport industry will inject between 400-500mg (or more) regularly. Users who take this dosage show that the negative symptoms are irrelevant and the people who experience side effects find them easy to control. You should be aware that any higher doses may cause some unfavorable effects.
Sermorelin is also known as GRF 1-29 NH 2 which stands for Growth Hormone Releasing Factor with the numbers indicating the amino acid chain that is responsible for the effect of the Sermorelin. Sermorelin IS NOT HGH; Sermorelin works by promoting the secretion of your body’s own Human Growth Hormone (HGH) from the pituitary gland.
What to Expect
A steady increase in HGH levels starting immediately, and reaching it’s peak within 3 – 6 months from the initiation of therapy.
Why use Sermorelin vs. HGH?
Sermorelin use leads to the preservation of youthful anatomy and physiology without the possible harmful side effects associated with HGH administration. The function of Sermorelin is to stimulate pituitary function; the pituitary gland regulates the amount of HGH production. This increases the safety and minimizes the side effects. Another distinct advantage is cost. Sermorelin is a much more cost effective option.
Sermorelin Therapy Stimulates Your Pituitary Gland to Produce HGH
How does Sermorelin work in your brain? With Sermorelin you are stimulating your pituitary gland to release HGH Growth Hormone, you are not directly putting HGH into your body from an external source, thus there is a big difference, and the fact of the matter is that after decades of reviews from people about the benefits of Growth Hormone injection treatment, people are now starting to switch to Sermorelin.
Sermorelin Dosing
Typical dosing for anti-aging and bodybuilding purposes is 100-200mcg per day.
The Possible Benefits of Sermorelin Injections:
Increase development and cut of lean muscles – Because muscles become larger using Sermorelin shots, and fat melts away, it gives the appearance of being leaner and meaner.
Improved recovery time from working out and physical activity – One of the biggest setbacks of aging is that it takes longer to recover from muscle building and working out. Sermorelin shrinks the recovery time from injury and physically strenuous activities.
Increase vigor, improve stamina and up regulate vitality – A rising sense of zest and zeal inexplicably rises in people who use Sermorelin. Suddenly you feel a sense that you want to seize life, you find you have a greater capacity for getting things done and you develop a go get it done attitude.
Melt belly fat and adipose tissue on the hips, thighs and buttocks – The very place men and women accumulate fat, is exactly where Sermorelin seems to melt away these problem areas.
Bone strength and bone mineral density composite improve – our bones become lighter and more frail as we age, because we lose our capacity to hold the mineral density in our very bones. Women more than men suffer from osteoporosis, and Sermorelin has been shown in some women to have a protective capacity in these regards.
Regulation of other hormone symphonies improves
Boost metabolism, improve circulation – one of the most noticeable things about Sermorelin is how it helps people to lose weight safely. Although not promoted as a weight loss medication, through the increase in muscle mass and the reduction in fat, the visual results are impressive.
Sleep, a quality that deteriorates with age, plays a very important role in the amount Human Growth Hormone our body produces. The majority of our natural HGH production is known to occur during deep sleep. Because the body produces HGH during deep sleep, less hours of sleep and poor sleeping patterns result in a low production of HGH. Sermorelin Therapy promotes longer, deeper sleep and improved sleeping patterns. Production of HGH during the sleep cycle becomes dramatically improved. This deep restful sleep and increased production of HGH enhances the body’s ability to better recover and regenerate from daily life and exercise.
Sermorelin and Testosterone Cypionate Together
If you are also experiencing deficiency in testosterone, thus suffering from Low T, andropause, androgen deficiency syndrome, hypotestosteronemia or the medical diagnosis of hypogonadism, we can prescribe Sermorelin concurrently with a testosterone program. Many people reported amazing benefits from combining Testosterone and Sermorelin together.
Sermorelin is used to treat hypopituitarism and adult onset growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). If you are feeling the symptoms of adult aging, use the information contact form on our web site, so that we can discuss your hormone replacement therapy options with Sermorelin acetate injections and testosterone.
Sermorelin for Bodybuilding
Does Sermorelin help with bodybuilding? Yes, Absolutely. Sermorelin can increase your body’s own natural production of Human Growth Hormone.
Reactions to Sermorelin
THE MOST COMMON REACTION to Sermorelin therapy is related to local irritation around the injection site, which occurs in around one of every six patients. Although somewhat rare, this irritation is characterized by redness, pain, or swelling. This side effect is experienced by only a small minority of patients, a few of which may find the irritation bothersome enough to suspend therapy. There are other side effects which can occur in less than 1% of patients. These side effects include: drowsiness, hives, vomiting, headache, nausea, difficulty swallowing, hyperactivity, chest tightness, distortion in perception of taste, and flushing of the skin. But keep in mind that these side effects are very rare, and most people tolerate Sermorelin very well with no problems at all.
Gynomastia is swollen male breast tissue caused by a hormone imbalance.
Male breast tissue swells due to reduced male hormones (testosterone) or increased female hormones (estrogen). Causes include puberty, aging, prescription and other medications like steroids, sarms, prohormones and peptides, and health conditions that affect hormones.
Symptoms are breast tissue swelling and tenderness.
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying condition.
Treating Gynomastia
A combination therapy can be quite effective at treating new and / or existing gynomastia. Below we list highly effective means by which gyno can be eradicated from the body…
We introduce a novel 3-in-1 approach using the three best known treatments, all combined as a single powerful approach, designed to eradicate gynomastia from the body.
It is called Gynomastia Buster, and it contains:
Clomid (Clomiphene)
Clomiphene, an antiestrogen, can be administered at a dose of 50mg per day for up to 6 months. Approximately 50% of patients achieve partial reduction in breast size, and approximately 20% of patients note complete resolution.
Nolvadex (Tamoxifen)
For boys with severe gynecomastia that is causing substantial tenderness or embarrassment, a short course of a drug called tamoxifen (sample brand name: Nolvadex) may be recommended. This drugs block the effects of estrogen in the body and can reduce the size of the breasts.
Armidex
Arimidex lowers levels of estradiol (a form of estrogen) by about 70% within 24 hours. After 14 days of treatment, estradiol levels were lowered by about 80%. And estradiol levels continued to be reduced for 6 days after stopping treatment. This controls testosterone to estrogen conversion tipping the hormonal balance in favor of testosterone dominance which can reduce breast tissue size.
Conclusion
A 3-in-1 approach may be best to treat new or existing gynomastia. For more information as to where to get such a treatment at a very affordable price, contact here.
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is an oral anabolic steroid, created in 1962 to promote lean muscle mass in those suffering from muscle-wasting conditions. The other main objective when formulating Anavar was to create a mild drug, with few side effects, so women and children could safely take it.
In 1964, an American pharmaceutical company named G.D Searle & Co brought Anavar to market.
It was successful in becoming an effective treatment for men, women and children suffering from catabolic illnesses, burns, infections and those recovering from surgery. Anavar was also prescribed for treating osteoporosis, due to its ability to increase bone mineral density.
As doctors’ understanding of Anavar evolved, it became a medicine deemed as safe, with Anavar remaining FDA-approved even today. This is contrary to other steroids, where they were initially approved for medicinal, but later banned by the FDA; due to harsh side effects later becoming well-known.
Despite studies proving the safety of Anavar long-term, it is currently banned for recreational purposes. Anavar is classed as a schedule III controlled substance, although it is still widely used in medicine today.
G.D Searle & Co removed Anavar from the market in 1989. This was partly due to bad publicity, stemming from athletes and bodybuilders using Anavar to cheat in sports, given the drug’s performance and muscle-enhancing effects.
However, in 1995 Anavar made a comeback, returning to pharmacies under the brand name Oxandrin, now produced by BTG (Bio-Technology General Corp).
BTG arranged a deal with Searle where they would continue manufacturing the steroid but would distribute it exclusively to BTG — thus being sold under a new company name.
BTG was granted orphan drug designation, for treating rare muscle-wasting diseases and conditions (AIDS, Turners syndrome, muscular dystrophy). This gave BTG 7 years of market exclusivity, resulting in a pharmaceutical monopoly. Consequently, BTG was able to significantly increase the price of Anavar by 1,200%.
Oxandrin is still sold today but under the newly formed company name of Savient (formerly BTG).
Generic Anavar is now produced and sold, with the orphan drug designation expiring, destroying BTG’s monopoly.
However, due to this previous elevation in price, plus high demand for Anavar and only a few labs in the world producing it; Anavar still remains expensive today. It is regarded as one of the highest-priced steroids on the market, along with Primobolan.
Anavar is typically used by bodybuilders in cutting cycles, due to its simultaneous fat-burning and muscle-building effects. Powerlifters can also cycle Anavar before meets, due to it significantly increasing strength.
Anavar Benefits
Anavar is one of the most coveted steroids on the market, despite its high market price. Here is why vast amounts of bodybuilders are eager to purchase oxandrolone:
Muscle gain
Fat loss
Strength-building
Mild side effects
Female-friendly
Enhanced athletic performance
Big pumps
Fat Loss
Anavar significantly increases the body’s Triiodothyronine (T3) to thyroxine (T4) ratio. T3 is the active thyroid hormone that elevates a person’s metabolism and enhances fat loss. Similar to how free testosterone is the most important testosterone score for building muscle mass, T3 is the most important thyroid score, for increased fat-burning.
Anavar increases T3 by dramatically reducing TBG (thyroid-binding globulin), whilst simultaneously spiking TBP (thyroxine-binding prealbumin). This process increases the uptake of T3 at a cellular level.
Fat loss is somewhat noticeable on Anavar, with research showing that a moderate dose of 20mg per day can result in 4lbsof fat loss, over the course of 12 weeks. Thus research shows that Anavar’s anabolic effects outweigh its fat-burning properties, with participants in the same study gaining 7lbs of muscle.
Not only does Anavar burn subcutaneous fat, but it also reduces visceral fat. This is different from other anabolic steroids, which typically reduce subcutaneous fat, whilst increasing visceral fat. This may be due to Anavar improving insulin sensitivity, whilst other steroids can result in a person becoming less sensitive to insulin; potentially leading to steroid-induced diabetes.
Muscle Gain
Anavar (and all anabolic steroids) are essentially forms of exogenous testosterone, thus Anavar will increase muscle mass.
Due to the substitution of a carbon atom, replacing an oxygen atom in the A ring (in the C2 position), this molecular structure makes Anavar resistant to inactivation via the enzyme 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. This explains Anavar’s very high anabolic rating, being: 322-630.
However, its high anabolic rating doesn’t translate into exceptional muscle gains in practical settings. Thus if a user is coveting huge muscle gains, they may opt for other steroids, such as Dianabol, Trenbolone, Anadrol or Testosterone. Or they may decide to stack some of these compounds with Anavar.
One benefit to Anavar is that it produces lean muscle gains. Thus, users won’t gain fat, water weight, or become bloated. This is due to Anavar being 5α-reduced, thus it doesn’t aromatize, meaning estrogen levels will not rise. This is beneficial for bodybuilders wanting to look dry and aesthetic. It is also appealing to athletes, who do not want to be carrying additional water weight when performing.
Women can typically experience better muscle gains compared to men on Anavar, even with a modest dose of 5-10mg per day.
Strength Building
Anavar has a significant impact on strength, which is surprising to some considering it is deemed a ‘cutting steroid’ and doesn’t cause dramatic muscle/weight gain.
Anavar’s ability to rapidly increase strength is mainly due to it being exogenous testosterone. However, it also has a dramatic effect on ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) production and creatine content inside the muscle cells.
Higher levels of ATP are beneficial for those who want to hit new PR’s when bulking. Or for users cutting, who may otherwise lose strength whilst eating low calories for a prolonged period of time.
This is also why powerlifters may take Anavar before a competition, should they want a boost in strength (without much weight gain). Dr. Thomas O’Connor states that top elite powerlifters in the 1970s, whom he has treated, were practically all on Anavar.
Thus, the connotation of it being a ‘girl steroid’ isn’t quite the case, with some of the strongest men in the world taking it too.
Mild Side Effects
Anavar is one of the best steroids on the market, in regards to side effects. Research has shown it to have ‘excellent safety’ in long-term medical settings. Due to its mild nature, it is commonly used by beginner bodybuilders looking to build modest amounts of muscle and fat.
A general rule with steroids is: the better the results, the more side effects.
Anavar’s benefits aren’t overly powerful (at least compared to other steroids), but the side effects are very tolerable. Its risk/reward ratio is thus very positive.
Less Liver Toxic
Anavar is a c17-alpha alkylated oral steroid, which is beneficial, as the compound will be fully active after bypassing the liver. However, unlike other oral steroids, Anavar’s not significantly hepatotoxic.
This is due to Anavar being metabolised mainly by the kidneys, instead of the liver. Some of the Anavar will bypass through the liver; however, this is a smaller percentage compared to other C17-aa steroids.
Research shows that 20mg of oxandrolone causes 72% less BSP (Sulfobromophthalein; a marker of liver stress), compared to an equal dose of fluoxymesterone. Fluoxymesterone is also a C17-aa steroid.
Thus liver enzymes (AST/ALT) are likely to rise on Anavar; however, this will only be a mild increase, compared to oral Dianabol or Anadrol for example. Research shows that elevated enzymes are likely to return to normal, after discontinuing oxandrolone.
Note: Liver damage should not be discounted; however, if very high doses of Anavar are administered for excessive periods of time.
No Gyno or Water Retention
As previously mentioned, Anavar doesn’t aromatize; thus gynecomastia is very unlikely on Anavar.
Progestational activity is also non-existent in Anavar, therefore progesterone-induced gyno also will not occur.
The only incidence of gynecomastia occurring on oxandrolone was in a study done on adolescent boys. 33 cases of gyno were reported; however, these findings are contradictory to other research in adults. Thus if Anavar is taken long-term by children during puberty, the risk of gyno seems to increase. However, it’s important to point out that these children were taking moderate doses of Anavar continuously for 6 months to 8 years. The average bodybuilder will run Anavar for a maximum of 8 weeks.
Furthermore, water retention is very unlikely on Anavar, with the compound creating a ‘dry’ and ‘ripped’ look. This diuretic effect is also likely to increase vascularity and muscle striations; whilst contributing to a leaner appearance.
Less Androgenicity
Anavar is already a derivative of dihydrotestosterone, meaning there is no conversion to DHT via the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. As a result, Anavar has mild androgenic properties and side effects. This is reflected in a low androgenic rating of 25.
Therefore, in theory, androgenic side effects should be mild. However, in practical settings; acne, male pattern baldness and prostate enlargement can occur, due to Anavar being a DHT-based steroid.
Note: DHT side effects are determined largely by your genetics, thus some may experience significant hair loss on a low dose of Anavar, whereas others may experience no hair loss on high doses of trenbolone year-round. Furthermore, such androgenic side effects often reverse post-cycle, including hair thinning/loss.
Suitable for Women
Due to Anavar’s mild androgenic rating, it doesn’t typically produce virilization side effects in women (when taken in low to moderate doses). Thus Anavar is known to be a female-friendly steroid.
Virilization side effects include:
Deepening of the voice
Hair growth (on the body)
Clitoral enlargement
More pronounced jaw
Smaller breasts
Irregular menstrual cycles
Therefore, because Anavar doesn’t typically cause the above side effects, keeping a woman’s femininity intact; it’s very popular among females looking to build muscle and burn fat.
Note: Masculinization is still possible if doses higher than 10mg a day are taken. Studies have reported girls experiencing virilization effects when taking high doses of 0.125mg per kg continuously for a year. The average age of the girls in this study was 9 years old.
Increased Recovery, Endurance & Speed
Anavar has proven successful in treating burn patients, because of its ability to accelerate recovery. It is this principle as to why athletes also use Anavar. Enhanced recovery enables an athlete to increase training intensity, duration and frequency for better performance. With higher red blood cell count and increased ATP production, muscular endurance will also improve on Anavar.
Although, it is not just strength and endurance athletes that can benefit from Anavar. Sports where speed is rewarded such as: sprinting, swimming or boxing; may also take Anavar in conjunction with other steroids.
Research has shown anabolic steroids to increase sprint speed in rats by up to 29% when using steroids. Furthermore, their endurance also improved by 41%.
Big Pumps
Anavar causes significant intracellular water retention, resulting in constantly full and pumped muscles throughout the day.
This is beneficial for bodybuilders who want to look as big as possible. Such additional muscle fullness, combined with Anavar’s dry properties, can also result in enhanced vascularity.
This is due to water filling inside the muscle cell, and fluid being expelled outside the muscle cell. This causes superficial veins to become more visible, no longer being obscured by extracellular water.
Note: some Anavar-users report excessively big pumps (usually in the lower back), which can be uncomfortable/painful. This can often feel like a locked, cramping sensation inside the muscle, which lasts for several hours. Consequently, the person may not be able to finish their workout due to severe discomfort. Hence this benefit may become a side effect for some users.
Anavar Side Effects
Anavar has been branded by researchers as “effective and safe” even when used in the long term. Thus, when used in a clinical setting with low to moderate doses, Anavar doesn’t typically produce dangerous side effects.
However, if Anavar is abused in a recreational setting, where higher doses are administered; the risk of side effects increases. In which case the following can occur:
High LDL cholesterol
Suppressed testosterone
Kidney damage
Hair loss
High LDL cholesterol
Approximately a decade after Anavar came to market, there was promise for it being a medication to successfully treat high cholesterol. This was due to doctors in the 70’s observing reduced total cholesterol levels in Anavar-users.
However, later research showed that Anavar negatively shifts the ratio of HDL to LDL levels.
(HDL is the good type of cholesterol and LDL the negative type).
In one study, men with HIV took 20mg of Anavar per day for 12 weeks. Consequently, their HDL levels were suppressed by 30%.
The second group who took a higher dose of 40mg, experienced a 33% decrease in HDL, whilst elevating LDL levels by roughly 30%.
Men who took 80mg of Anavar per day saw a 50% decline in HDL levels.
Therefore taking Anavar can increase the risk of arteriosclerosis (clogging of the arteries), and will almost certainly spike blood pressure to some extent. If very high doses are taken, cardiovascular side effects can become severe leading to hypertension, heart disease or stroke.
Cholesterol levels are likely to regulate back to normal once users discontinue supplementation.
High doses of Anavar may cause some flushing in the face or body, causing users’ skin to appear red. This is a sign of elevated body temperature and (potentially) increased blood pressure. Although this sensation is not likely.
Note: People who have high blood pressure or are genetically prone to heart disease should not take Anavar (or other steroids), due to its negative redistribution of cholesterol levels.
Suppressed Testosterone
Being exogenous testosterone, Anavar will increase testosterone levels dramatically.
However, once the body recognizes this hormonal imbalance, it will decrease endogenous (natural) testosterone production; in an attempt to reduce cardiovascular strain.
In the previously cited study, they also measured the impact of Oxandrolone on testosterone levels. After 12 weeks, the groups taking 20mg and 40mg per day experienced a 45% reduction in testosterone. The 80mg group suffered a 66% reduction in testosterone.
Further research shows that even tiny doses of oxandrolone (2.5mg), when taken in boys suffering from delayed puberty, can shut down endogenous testosterone production. Thus when bodybuilders take Anavar, they will typically experience a sudden increase in well-being, confidence, motivation and aggression. This is due to the exogenous testosterone kicking in; however, once they come off Anavar, they can experience: tiredness, fatigue and reduced libido.
Testicular atrophy is also a common sign of shutdown testosterone levels, which occurs due to less sperm production in the testes. Anavar may also negatively affect fertility, due to damage to the sperm via decreased HPA axis function. However, sperm quality is likely to improve post-cycle.
Note: Testosterone levels typically recover 1-4 months after a user stops taking Anavar. An effective PCT protocol can accelerate the recovery of endogenous testosterone. The higher the dose of Anavar, the longer this process can take. Hypogonadism is possible with Anavar-abuse, however high doses over a long period of time are likely needed, without cycling off.
Kidney Damage
Oral steroids are metabolised by the liver. However, Anavar is unique in this respect, being mostly metabolised by the kidneys. This can put them under increased strain, leading to acute kidney injury.
On Anavar, the body will increase endothelin production via stimulation of the RAA (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone) system. This results in inflamed cytokines, a group of proteins produced in the kidneys; a marker of increased stress.
Hair Loss
Anavar is a DHT-derived steroid, thus accelerated hair loss can be experienced in genetically susceptible individuals.
DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), is a powerful androgen that binds to the hair follicles on your scalp, resulting in miniaturization and inhibited growth. This can result in thinning, recession or hair follicles falling out.
How much hair loss users will experience is determined by their genetics. Or more specifically, how sensitive they are to dihydrotestosterone.
How to Prevent Hair Loss on Anavar
There are two main options when trying to prevent hair loss:
Directly treat the scalp (externally)
Block DHT internally
There are certain shampoos that block DHT from a follicular level. This is the less effective of the two options; however, this method will not significantly interfere with your body’s overall production of DHT, but will instead target the scalp specifically.
This is a positive for bodybuilders as they want to keep DHT levels in the body high, with the hormone binding to androgen receptors up to 5x more effectively than testosterone.
The second option is to block DHT from a cellular level.
Finasteride (Propecia) is an FDA-approved medication, shown to be effective at blocking DHT levels in the body and reducing hair loss. It is available in pill form via a prescription; however, studies show that roughly 52% of men report muscle loss when taking it. Thus taking finasteride may counteract the anabolic effects of Anavar, causing bodybuilders to be unsatisfied with their results.
Anavar Tranformations
John Miller got ripped in 8 weeks using a cutting stack, which included: Anavar, Winstrol, Clenbuterol and Sustanon 250. (Pic not available)
Cole took a combination of bulking and cutting compounds (including Anavar), in two different phases during this transformation. He gained 25lbs of muscle in total, whilst stripping a significant amount of fat.
Cole’s bench press PR also improved by 50lbs. He describes Anavar as “the best experience” out of all the supplements he’s ever taken.
William stripped 17lbs of fat from taking a cutting stack (including Anavar), stacked with HGH. He also reported gaining a considerable amount of lean muscle, particularly in his chest and arms.
His strength also improved, adding 35lbs to his bench press and becoming “one of the strongest” in his gym. He also experienced increased stamina during his workouts.
William says his results were “incredible” and has “never seen gains this fast” in the 5 years he’s been weight training.
Giovan took Anavar to get leaner and increase her curves. She lost 3% body fat, whilst increasing her BMI to 21.6 from 20.1, indicating lean muscle gains. (pic not available)
Anavar Results (Before and After Pictures)
Anavar will cause users to build muscle and burn fat simultaneously. However, Anavar won’t produce exceptional fat loss when used alone as a cutting steroid. Instead, fat loss is mostly achieved via a person’s diet, thus eating in a calorie deficit.
In clinical settings, Anavar has burned 4lbs of fat over a 12 weeks period on a moderate dose of 20mg per day (in men).
When you compare this to the 7lbs of muscle gained by these men, it’s easier to understand why some bodybuilders use Anavar during bulking cycles. Women may gain more muscle than this, due to their endogenous testosterone production being much lower than men.
For an anabolic steroid, Anavar’s results are relatively mild. However, the results are still good enough for gym-goers and bodybuilders to regularly implement Anavar into their cycles.
For best results when bulking, it would be wise to stack Anavar with another compound such as testosterone. This will produce superior results, in regards to size and mass gained.
When cutting, Anavar will strip away fat, whilst increasing muscle size and strength. If a very aggressive low-calorie diet is implemented, bodybuilders may simply retain their lean mass (instead of adding new muscle tissue). Bodybuilders often worry about losing muscle size and strength whilst cutting, thus Anavar prevents this from happening, easing their anxiety.
Users commonly experience noticeable muscle gains in the deltoids on Anavar; however, the reason for this is not entirely known. One theory is that the deltoids have a high number of androgen receptors compared to other muscle groups.
Therefore, with Anavar being a DHT-based steroid and dihydrotestosterone binding to androgen receptors 5x more effectively than testosterone, this could be the chemical explanation behind such hypertrophy.
Anavar results (in women) – 10mg per day
Anavar Dosage
For Men
When Anavar was first released, a general dose of 5-10mg per day was common. However, athletes and bodybuilders now typically take 15, 25, 50 and even 100mg per day. This is usually administered for 6-8 weeks. (sometimes up to 16 weeks)
Longer cycles are more likely to be more hepatotoxic, cause elevated LDL cholesterol levels and decrease natural testosterone production even further, so proper liver protection is a must.
Important: Those who are buying underground lab Anavar via the black market, may claim these doses are too low. This is due to many scams, where someone thinks they are taking 40mg of Anavar, but in fact, is only 20mg. This is a common scenario where the seller has cut their dose in half. Thus the above dosage recommendations are based on taking 100% real Anavar.
Anavar pills typically come in 2.5mg, 10mg or 20mg doses. With Anavar’s short half-life (9.4-10.4 hours), it is more effective to split up doses throughout the day, keeping high concentrations of oxandrolone in your system.
Many male bodybuilders will take 2 x 10mg doses. Others use pill cutters to split 10mg pills in half (for example), thus giving them 4 x 5mg doses. If 2.5mg pills are obtained, this reduces the need to cut any of the pills down.
You can also take a dose of Anavar 45 minutes before a workout, resulting in a positive effect on motivation, energy levels and focus.
For Women
There were no dosage instructions specific to women when Anavar was first released. The only caution was that pregnant women should refrain from using the drug.
Over half a century later, many women have used Anavar with much trial and error. Now it is widely considered that doses in the range of 5-10mg will produce noticeable results (in muscle growth and fat loss), whilst keeping virilization side effects at bay. Cycles are also kept relatively short at 4-6 weeks.
Female Cutting Stack
This stack is tailored for women who want to reduce their body fat percentage, build lean muscle and increase muscle tone.
The 3 steroids in this stack are:
1. Clenbuterol
2. Anavar
3. Winstrol
These 3 steroids are optimal for females who want to cut.
By combining these 3 compounds together, users can expect better and faster results than taking Anavar alone.
This trio will not add huge amounts of muscle, thus it is suitable for women wanting to look strong and attractive, instead of bulky and manly.
Anavar Cycles
Anavar-only cycle
Anavar-only cycles aren’t common among hardcore bodybuilders because of the steroid’s mild nature. Thus, stacking Anavar with another compound such as testosterone will produce better results. However, with this combination, users will also experience more side effects.
Anavar-only cycles are still effective and a more common protocol for beginners during their first steroid cycle. This can be a wise choice, as it introduces the body to a much less toxic compound, at a time where the body’s tolerance is less.
However, beginners who are coveting massive muscle gains may be disappointed with an Anavar-only cycle. Instead, they may opt for a Dianabol or testosterone-only cycle.
For Men
This cycle is suitable for beginners. Once a man has built up some tolerance to Anavar, he may wish to start on 20mg/day in future cycles and extend the cycle up to 8 weeks.
For Women
This cycle is suitable for beginners. It begins with a small dose to gradually introduce the compound, reducing the risk of side effects. A first-time female cycle can also last for 4 weeks.
Once a woman has built up some tolerance to Anavar, she may choose to begin future cycles at 10mg per day and extend the cycle duration to 6 weeks (for further results).
Anavar and Test Cycle
Testosterone is an injectable steroid that produces exceptional muscle and strength gains. Combining this steroid with Anavar enhances its anabolic effect, whilst increasing lipolysis (fat loss). Enanthate or cypionate are common testosterone esters used for this stack.
Note: For beginners, a testosterone-only cycle is a better choice, as stacking test and Anavar will exacerbate cholesterol issues and endogenous testosterone suppression.
Below is an intermediate testosterone and Anavar cycle. This is more suitable for men who have already completed one or two cycles of testosterone or Anavar.
Anavar and testosterone is not a stack recommended for women, as the addition of testosterone greatly increases the chance of virilization. Elite female bodybuilders may implement these two steroids together, but with the expectation of masculinization occurring in moderate doses.
Anavar and Andriol Cycle
Testosterone is predominantly an injectable steroid; however, Andriol (testosterone undecanoate) is the lesser-known oral version.
Test undecanoate is less popular than injectable testosterone (among bodybuilders) because it is more expensive and less powerful.
However, this stack may be of great interest to people who don’t want to take injectables and want better results than an Anavar-only cycle. There are more powerful and cheaper orals than test undecanoate, such as Dianabol or Anadrol 50. However, testosterone undecanoate is considered to be a ‘safe oral androgen‘, following a 10 year study. Anadrol and Dianabol orals are very hepatotoxic in comparison.
Research shows that liver enzymes do not rise on testosterone undecanoate (over a 10 year period); plus the risk of gynecomastia and prostate enlargement is low.
In one of the studies cited above, 80-200mg of testosterone undecanoate was taken for 72 months by 35 men. 9 of them had never received such androgen treatment before. None of these men developed gynecomastia at any stage during the study.
In the second study, 33 men took testosterone undecanoate for 10 years, and only two men observed a mild reduction in urine flow.
Thus in terms of side effects, Andriol is very similar to Anavar, being classed as a ‘safe’ drug (in medicine). However, LDL levels are still likely to rise and testosterone levels will be suppressed temporarily post-cycle.
Note: If you implement this cycle, ensure Andriol (testosterone undecanoate) is taken with food, as its bio-availability is very low when taken on an empty stomach. To further increase absorption ensure the meal contains at least 19 grams of fat or a minimum of 30% of the meal’s calories consisting of fat. Both of these methodologies have been effective in research. Higher quantities of fat present in the meal, correlated with higher serum testosterone levels in users taking Andriol.
Other Cycles
Anavar can technically be combined with any other steroid. However, beginners should avoid taking it with harsh compounds (such as Anadrol, trenbolone, Winstrol, etc).
Also, Anavar’s dry and hard effects will be counteracted if you stack it with a ‘wet’ steroid. I.e. one that aromatizes and causes significant water retention. Some examples of wet steroids are Anadrol, Dianabol, Testosterone and Deca Durabolin.
Thus Trenbolone or Turinabol may be considered if users want to build more muscle/burn more fat, as it’s also a dry compound. Winstrol is another dry steroid. However, Trenbolone and Winstrol are particularly harsh on the body (Tren more so), hence why they are mainly cycled by experienced steroid-users.
Do You Need to Run a PCT on Anavar?
The main purpose of a PCT is to restart endogenous testosterone production. This is done to help retain gains experienced from a cycle. It is also to ensure your hormones are functioning at a normal level, ensuring optimal physiological and psychological health.
Anavar will cause natural testosterone levels to decline, however, it’s unlikely to shut testosterone down fully.
Previously we cited a study that stated men taking 20mg a day for 12 weeks experienced a 45% decrease in testosterone levels. This was an excessive cycle duration, with a standard cycle length of 6-8 weeks (for men). From this study, we can conclude that natural testosterone production is likely to remain fairly high if a moderate dose/cycle is performed.
Thus, some people doing Anavar-only cycles may decide not to utilize a PCT, and wait for their natural testosterone to recover. This typically can take 1-4 months.
However, if a user stacks Anavar with other anabolic steroids, this suppressing effect will be heightened; making a PCT a recommended strategy. Alternatively, if a user doesn’t want to wait several months, they can incorporate a PCT to reduce this recovery time period.
A very aggressive PCT is:
hCG – 2000 IU for 20 days (taken every 2 days)
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) – 20mg x 2 (taken continuously for 45 days)
Clomiphene (Clomid) – 50mg x 2 (taken continuously for 30 days)
If a user is stacking Anavar with harsh compounds they may incorporate the above protocol.
However, if a man utilizes an Anavar-only cycle, taking one of these PCT drugs alone should be more than enough, bringing back endogenous production quickly.
For those who do want to incorporate a PCT, it should be started immediately upon the oxandrolone leaving your body. You can calculate this using the following formula: 5.5 x half-life.
Anavar’s half-life is 9.4-10.4 hours. Although the half-life increases as a person ages, therefore it can rise up to 13.3 hours in the elderly.
Thus if we state the half-life as 10.4 hours, the PCT should begin 57 hours after your last dose.
Do Women Need to Run a PCT with Anavar?
There is a common notion that women do not need a PCT; however, in practical settings, women do show signs of their testosterone levels shutting down after AAS. Thus, it is a good idea for women to run a PCT after taking Anavar, as although they produce less testosterone than men, it remains an important hormone for their: well-being, libido and cementing gains from a cycle.
Men produce testosterone via their testicles, whereas women produce testosterone via their ovaries.
Women often report feeling depressed and experiencing low libido when coming off cycles. Dave Crosland, the founder of Crosland’s Harm Reduction Services, tested a female who had just come off a steroid cycle; and found her testosterone and estrogen levels to be extremely low.
Nolvadex can be used as a PCT in women, which has been successful in speeding up recovery and relieving feelings of depression. However, menstrual cycles have still taken 3-6 months to return. Female Nolvadex doses should be less than a male, with cycles also being shorter. A protocol Dave Crosland reports as having some success is:
Nolvadex PCT (female)
1st week – 20mg
2nd week: 15mg
3rd week: 10mg
4th week: 5mg
However, DHEA is the official medical treatment prescribed to women for low androgen levels. Therefore this PCT protocol is the preferred method.
DHEA PCT (female)
25-50mg per day (4 weeks)
DHEA has been used for 4-6 months in trials, thus it can be taken for as long as necessary (within this time span), until symptoms of being shut down diminish.
hCG is not recommended for women as a PCT, due to evidence of it enlarging the ovaries and causing virilization. Clomid also isn’t an ideal PCT for women, as it may cause the ovaries to become oversensitive.
