What is Oxandrolone (Oxandrin or Anavar)?

Oxandrolone is an anabolic steroid. It is very similar to the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is currently sold under the name “Oxandrin” but has been sold as “Anavar” in the past.

Why Use Oxandrolone (Oxandrin or Anavar)?

As an anabolic compound that stimulates cell growth, Oxandrolone has legitimate medical applications in the treatment of several conditions including muscle wasting caused by HIV/AIDS, alcoholic hepatitis and long-term corticosteroid treatment. It is used to promote growth in children with Turner’s Syndrome, has improved bone density in osteoporosis sufferers, and like many other steroids, is used to treat certain types of anaemia and angioedema.

Early research is showing a promising role for Oxandrolone in the treatment of burn victims. Athletes sometimes abuse oxandrolone to promote muscle gain and fat loss.  Bad publicity from this abuse resulted in the withdrawal of the drug from sale in 1989 – Manufacturing recommenced in 1995.

Oxandrolone, Oxandrin & Anavar Side Effects

Like other anabolic steroids, when incorrectly used, Oxandrolone can cause several serious side effects, many of which can be life-threatening or permanent. These may occur without warning in otherwise healthy young people. Steroid abuse takes a huge toll on the cardiovascular system.

It can cause high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease and kidney failure (1), and changes in blood clotting, which can cause several serious conditions, including stroke (2). Oxandrolone increases the thickness of the heart muscle, which means there is less room in the chambers of the heart for blood and reduced blood flow to the body (3). Steroid use causes a change in the ratio of HDL (good) cholesterol to LDL (bad) cholesterol, which increases the likelihood of atherosclerosis and vascular disease (4). Introducing a derivative of testosterone into the body has the strong potential to cause several hormonal disturbances, notably long-term suppression of the body’s ability to produce normal levels of androgen hormones, which can cause infertility, testicular atrophy, gynecomastia (man boobs) and increase the risk of testicular cancer in men (5,6). Women run the risk of developing masculine features – often these changes are irreversible. Severe acne and hair loss are also very common side effects of Oxandrolone abuse (7). Mental disturbances are common, and a large number of steroid users experience psychological dependence and develop mental and physical withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit (8). Aggression (roid rage), mood swings, mania and depression are potentially devastating side effects that can arise from Oxandrolone abuse (7).

Finally, steroids sold illegally are not subject to quality control – products may be out of date, infected, or contaminated with toxic substances. One study showed that nearly one-third of steroids on the market are counterfeit, and nearly half of these contain an active ingredient different to that stated on the label (9).

Alternatives to Oxandrolone, Oxandrin & Anavar

There are several supplements on the market in Australia that may stimulate the body to increase testosterone production. Whilst further studies are required, these safe, legal alternatives may increase testosterone naturally within a normal range.

Some of the more popular ingredients to look out for are:

• Tribulus – The most popular testosterone booster, Tribulus is tried and has many supporters.  Several cultures have traditionally used this plant to enhance growth, mood and libido.
• D-aspartic acid – This amino acid has shown very promising results as a testosterone booster. In a study, it was shown to raise testosterone production in adult males by up to 42% (10).
• Aromatase inhibitors – Aromatase, or oestrogen synthase, is an enzyme that naturally occurs within the body and converts testosterone into estradiol. Aromatase inhibitors are designed to prevent this reaction, resulting in higher levels of testosterone.
• Ecdysterone – Ecdysterone, also known as ECDY20 or Ecdysteroids, has shown muscle hypertrophy benefits in human studies. So much so that as of 2021 WADA placed this exciting ingredient on their watch list. As such and whilst legal for sale now, this in future may change.
• Tongkat Ali – Also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a herbal supplement traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine. It is believed to potentially increase testosterone production, thereby enhancing libido and muscle strength.

Conclusion

While Oxandrolone, known as Oxandrin or Anavar, has legitimate medical applications and is sought after in the fitness community for muscle gain and fat loss, its potential for serious side effects cannot be overlooked. Its misuse can lead to severe health risks, emphasizing the importance of considering legal, natural alternatives for enhancing fitness goals.

Supplements like Tribulus, D-aspartic acid, aromatase inhibitors, Ecdysterone, and Tongkat Ali offer safer ways to potentially boost testosterone and enhance muscle strength, within the confines of legal and health-safe parameters. As always, informed and responsible use, under medical guidance, is paramount when exploring options for physical enhancement and well-being.

Disclaimer

Mr Supplement is committed to the health and well-being of our customers. We strongly endorse the legal and responsible use of supplements. Our products and advice are intended to support a balanced fitness regimen and should be used in accordance with legal guidelines and medical recommendations. We do not advocate or endorse the use of illegal substances or the misuse of prescription medication under any circumstances.