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Oxandrolone, sold under brand names like Anavar and Oxandrin, is a synthetic anabolic steroid medication. Like other anabolic steroids, it mimics the effects of testosterone. It was first introduced in the 1960s by the pharmaceutical company Searle Laboratories and has since found applications in both medical and athletic fields.
In the medical field, healthcare professionals use oxandrolone to treat various conditions. It is also famous in the bodybuilding community because of its mild androgenic effects.
Definition and Overview of Oxandrolone
Oxandrolone is a synthetic anabolic steroid medication belonging to the 17α-alkylated class. It's a modified version of testosterone that mimics its effects on the body, primarily stimulating muscle growth and bone density. Unlike testosterone, which converts to estrogen in specific tissues, oxandrolone has a low affinity for aromatase, the enzyme responsible for this conversion.
Oxandrolone goes by different names in the United States and Netherlands markets, including Anavar. Some alternative brand names for Oxandrolone include:
Medical Uses
After major surgeries, patients often experience significant muscle loss due to inactivity and stress. Oxandrolone can facilitate faster muscle recovery and rehabilitation, improving physical function and strength.
It also helps individuals regain muscle mass and weight due to chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS, chronic infections, and burns. Its anabolic properties contribute to the preservation of muscle tissue and can enhance the recovery of burn victims.
Oxandrolone can stimulate appetite and promote muscle growth, leading to healthy weight gain for individuals with unexplained weight loss due to unknown medical conditions. In osteoporosis patients experiencing bone pain, Oxandrolone can offer relief by decreasing inflammation and promoting bone repair.
Mechanism of Action
Since it mimics testosterone, oxandrolone binds tightly to androgen receptors. Once it binds to these receptors, it initiates a series of cellular events.
The androgen-receptor complex translocates to the cell nucleus, activating specific genes related to muscle protein synthesis. Oxandrolone can stimulate the production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis), which may contribute to improved endurance and oxygen-carrying capacity.
It undergoes hepatic (liver) metabolism, where enzymes modify its chemical structure. The half-life of oxandrolone is relatively short, typically around 9 to 10 hours. The body excretes oxandrolone metabolites in the urine, with a small portion eliminated through feces.
Side Effects and Risks
While oxandrolone offers benefits in specific medical contexts, knowing its potential side effects and risks is crucial. Its short-term side effects include:
Oxandrolone falls under controlled substance schedules in many countries like the United States (Schedule III), Canada (Schedule III), and Australia (Schedule IV). Possession or use without a prescription is illegal and punishable by fines or imprisonment.
In several countries like the United Kingdom and some European nations, it's a prescription-only medication for specific medical conditions, not for cosmetic or performance enhancement purposes.
Non-medical use in sports may lead to disqualification, fines, or bans due to anti-doping regulations. It creates an unfair advantage, jeopardizing the principles of fair competition and integrity. Additionally, its association with achieving an ideal physique can contribute to body dysmorphia and unrealistic expectations.
Dosage and Administration
The typical dosage for treating muscle-wasting conditions is 2.5 to 10 mg per day. The duration of treatment may vary based on the specific medical condition and individual response. Patients recovering from severe burns may have a dosage ranging from 10 to 80 mg per day to help prevent muscle loss and aid in recovery.
Athletes and bodybuilders who misuse oxandrolone for performance enhancement may take higher doses, often up to 100 mg daily. However, higher usage is not condoned and can lead to adverse effects.
Oxandrolone is available in tablet form and should be taken orally, with or without food, depending on individual tolerance. Sometimes, a liquid formulation may be available for children or individuals with difficulty swallowing tablets.
History and Development of Oxandrolone
Searle Laboratories first introduced oxandrolone to the pharmaceutical market in 1962. Raphael Pappo and Christopher J. Jung’s goal was to create a safer and more tissue-selective anabolic steroid compared to testosterone. However, Searle Laboratories had to stop production in 1989 due to the prevalent use of performance enhancement.
Bio-Technology General Corporation reintroduced oxandrolone in 1995 for specific medical conditions like HIV/AIDS-related muscle wasting and Turner syndrome.
Today, studies continue to explore Oxandrolone's potential benefits and risks in treating various conditions beyond its approved uses.
Comparison with Other Steroids
Compared to testosterone or nandrolone, oxandrolone is less androgenic. This effect makes it appealing for those who want to minimize masculinizing effects. At controlled doses, oxandrolone poses a lower risk than highly hepatotoxic steroids like Dianabol.
Winstrol is known for its ability to enhance strength and athletic performance. It may significantly impact cholesterol levels, but both substances carry the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Deca-Durabolin promotes joint health and improves recovery, while some often select oxandrolone for lean muscle preservation. It has a longer detection time in drug tests, but both substances increase the risk of hormonal imbalances.
The choice between anabolic steroids depends on individual goals, tolerance, and the specific effects desired. However, the non-medical use of any anabolic steroids is generally prohibited and subject to legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Research and Studies
Ongoing research delves deeper into its effects, safety, and potential use in new areas. The randomized control trial from the Journal of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome published that Oxandrolone promotes weight gain and preserves lean body mass in individuals with HIV/AIDS.
Systematic reviews from Cureus have investigated the role of Oxandrolone in aiding recovery from surgeries and traumatic injuries, where maintaining or regaining lean body mass is crucial.
Research from different institutions aims to elucidate further the complex molecular pathways through which Oxandrolone influences muscle growth and other physiological processes, paving the way for more targeted therapies.
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
Oxandrolone may interact with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of blood clotting parameters is advisable when patients use these drugs simultaneously.
It may also influence glucose metabolism. Patients with diabetes or those taking insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents may require adjustments in their medication dosage. Co-administration with corticosteroids can also increase the risk of fluid retention and edema.
Certain conditions make oxandrolone unsuitable for use due to potential risks. Patients with pre-existing liver problems, including active hepatitis or cirrhosis, significantly increase the risk of liver damage.
Additionally, individuals with a history of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attacks or strokes, should use Oxandrolone with caution. Anabolic steroids can severely affect lipid profiles and cardiovascular health.
Detection in Drug Tests
Standard anti-doping tests conducted by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and other sports organizations employ sophisticated techniques for detecting oxandrolone. These techniques include gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
While less common, blood tests can detect Oxandrolone for a shorter window than urine. However, blood testing is more invasive and expensive, limiting its use in routine sporting events.
Athletes in competitive sports are subject to anti-doping regulations that prohibit the use of performance-enhancing substances. Detecting oxandrolone in a drug test can lead to consequences for athletes, such as disqualification, loss of medals or titles, fines, and suspension from competition.
Athletic Organizations' Stance
Athletes are subject to testing at any time, both in and out of competition. They are responsible for the substances in their bodies, and intentional or unintentional use of prohibited substances can result in anti-doping rule violations.
Major sports federations, such as the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) in track and field, FIFA in soccer, and the International Swimming Federation (FINA), align their anti-doping policies with WADA. Its use without a legitimate medical reason is against the rules of these federations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does oxandrolone differ from other anabolic steroids?
Oxandrolone is known for its relatively mild androgenic effects compared to some other anabolic steroids. It tends to cause less water retention compared to some other steroids like Dianabol or Anadrol.
How long does oxandrolone stay in the system?
The detectable period for oxandrolone in urine generally ranges from 3-6 days, although traces might linger for up to 10 days. The specific duration depends on factors such as dosage, duration of use, individual metabolism, and the sensitivity of the testing method.
Is oxandrolone safe for long-term use?
Long-term use of Oxandrolone isn't considered safe. It may pose risks with prolonged use, including cardiovascular effects, hepatic stress, and hormonal imbalances.
In the medical field, healthcare professionals use oxandrolone to treat various conditions. It is also famous in the bodybuilding community because of its mild androgenic effects.
Definition and Overview of Oxandrolone
Oxandrolone is a synthetic anabolic steroid medication belonging to the 17α-alkylated class. It's a modified version of testosterone that mimics its effects on the body, primarily stimulating muscle growth and bone density. Unlike testosterone, which converts to estrogen in specific tissues, oxandrolone has a low affinity for aromatase, the enzyme responsible for this conversion.
Oxandrolone goes by different names in the United States and Netherlands markets, including Anavar. Some alternative brand names for Oxandrolone include:
- Vasorome in Japan
- Lonavar in Australia, Italy, and Argentina
- Lipidex in Brazil
- Oxandrin in the United States
Medical Uses
After major surgeries, patients often experience significant muscle loss due to inactivity and stress. Oxandrolone can facilitate faster muscle recovery and rehabilitation, improving physical function and strength.
It also helps individuals regain muscle mass and weight due to chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS, chronic infections, and burns. Its anabolic properties contribute to the preservation of muscle tissue and can enhance the recovery of burn victims.
Oxandrolone can stimulate appetite and promote muscle growth, leading to healthy weight gain for individuals with unexplained weight loss due to unknown medical conditions. In osteoporosis patients experiencing bone pain, Oxandrolone can offer relief by decreasing inflammation and promoting bone repair.
Mechanism of Action
Since it mimics testosterone, oxandrolone binds tightly to androgen receptors. Once it binds to these receptors, it initiates a series of cellular events.
The androgen-receptor complex translocates to the cell nucleus, activating specific genes related to muscle protein synthesis. Oxandrolone can stimulate the production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis), which may contribute to improved endurance and oxygen-carrying capacity.
It undergoes hepatic (liver) metabolism, where enzymes modify its chemical structure. The half-life of oxandrolone is relatively short, typically around 9 to 10 hours. The body excretes oxandrolone metabolites in the urine, with a small portion eliminated through feces.
Side Effects and Risks
While oxandrolone offers benefits in specific medical contexts, knowing its potential side effects and risks is crucial. Its short-term side effects include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Suppression of natural testosterone production
- Acne, oily skin, and increased hair growth
- Mood swings, aggression, irritability
- Edema or fluid retention
- Liver damage
- Endocrine system disorders
- Dependency or addiction
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Increased risk of infections due to suppressed immune system function
- Reproductive system disruptions
Oxandrolone falls under controlled substance schedules in many countries like the United States (Schedule III), Canada (Schedule III), and Australia (Schedule IV). Possession or use without a prescription is illegal and punishable by fines or imprisonment.
In several countries like the United Kingdom and some European nations, it's a prescription-only medication for specific medical conditions, not for cosmetic or performance enhancement purposes.
Non-medical use in sports may lead to disqualification, fines, or bans due to anti-doping regulations. It creates an unfair advantage, jeopardizing the principles of fair competition and integrity. Additionally, its association with achieving an ideal physique can contribute to body dysmorphia and unrealistic expectations.
Dosage and Administration
The typical dosage for treating muscle-wasting conditions is 2.5 to 10 mg per day. The duration of treatment may vary based on the specific medical condition and individual response. Patients recovering from severe burns may have a dosage ranging from 10 to 80 mg per day to help prevent muscle loss and aid in recovery.
Athletes and bodybuilders who misuse oxandrolone for performance enhancement may take higher doses, often up to 100 mg daily. However, higher usage is not condoned and can lead to adverse effects.
Oxandrolone is available in tablet form and should be taken orally, with or without food, depending on individual tolerance. Sometimes, a liquid formulation may be available for children or individuals with difficulty swallowing tablets.
History and Development of Oxandrolone
Searle Laboratories first introduced oxandrolone to the pharmaceutical market in 1962. Raphael Pappo and Christopher J. Jung’s goal was to create a safer and more tissue-selective anabolic steroid compared to testosterone. However, Searle Laboratories had to stop production in 1989 due to the prevalent use of performance enhancement.
Bio-Technology General Corporation reintroduced oxandrolone in 1995 for specific medical conditions like HIV/AIDS-related muscle wasting and Turner syndrome.
Today, studies continue to explore Oxandrolone's potential benefits and risks in treating various conditions beyond its approved uses.
Comparison with Other Steroids
Compared to testosterone or nandrolone, oxandrolone is less androgenic. This effect makes it appealing for those who want to minimize masculinizing effects. At controlled doses, oxandrolone poses a lower risk than highly hepatotoxic steroids like Dianabol.
Winstrol is known for its ability to enhance strength and athletic performance. It may significantly impact cholesterol levels, but both substances carry the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Deca-Durabolin promotes joint health and improves recovery, while some often select oxandrolone for lean muscle preservation. It has a longer detection time in drug tests, but both substances increase the risk of hormonal imbalances.
The choice between anabolic steroids depends on individual goals, tolerance, and the specific effects desired. However, the non-medical use of any anabolic steroids is generally prohibited and subject to legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Research and Studies
Ongoing research delves deeper into its effects, safety, and potential use in new areas. The randomized control trial from the Journal of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome published that Oxandrolone promotes weight gain and preserves lean body mass in individuals with HIV/AIDS.
Systematic reviews from Cureus have investigated the role of Oxandrolone in aiding recovery from surgeries and traumatic injuries, where maintaining or regaining lean body mass is crucial.
Research from different institutions aims to elucidate further the complex molecular pathways through which Oxandrolone influences muscle growth and other physiological processes, paving the way for more targeted therapies.
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
Oxandrolone may interact with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of blood clotting parameters is advisable when patients use these drugs simultaneously.
It may also influence glucose metabolism. Patients with diabetes or those taking insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents may require adjustments in their medication dosage. Co-administration with corticosteroids can also increase the risk of fluid retention and edema.
Certain conditions make oxandrolone unsuitable for use due to potential risks. Patients with pre-existing liver problems, including active hepatitis or cirrhosis, significantly increase the risk of liver damage.
Additionally, individuals with a history of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attacks or strokes, should use Oxandrolone with caution. Anabolic steroids can severely affect lipid profiles and cardiovascular health.
Detection in Drug Tests
Standard anti-doping tests conducted by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and other sports organizations employ sophisticated techniques for detecting oxandrolone. These techniques include gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
While less common, blood tests can detect Oxandrolone for a shorter window than urine. However, blood testing is more invasive and expensive, limiting its use in routine sporting events.
Athletes in competitive sports are subject to anti-doping regulations that prohibit the use of performance-enhancing substances. Detecting oxandrolone in a drug test can lead to consequences for athletes, such as disqualification, loss of medals or titles, fines, and suspension from competition.
Athletic Organizations' Stance
Athletes are subject to testing at any time, both in and out of competition. They are responsible for the substances in their bodies, and intentional or unintentional use of prohibited substances can result in anti-doping rule violations.
Major sports federations, such as the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) in track and field, FIFA in soccer, and the International Swimming Federation (FINA), align their anti-doping policies with WADA. Its use without a legitimate medical reason is against the rules of these federations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does oxandrolone differ from other anabolic steroids?
Oxandrolone is known for its relatively mild androgenic effects compared to some other anabolic steroids. It tends to cause less water retention compared to some other steroids like Dianabol or Anadrol.
How long does oxandrolone stay in the system?
The detectable period for oxandrolone in urine generally ranges from 3-6 days, although traces might linger for up to 10 days. The specific duration depends on factors such as dosage, duration of use, individual metabolism, and the sensitivity of the testing method.
Is oxandrolone safe for long-term use?
Long-term use of Oxandrolone isn't considered safe. It may pose risks with prolonged use, including cardiovascular effects, hepatic stress, and hormonal imbalances.
