Oxandrolone is a mild anabolic steroid marketed under the brand names Anavar and Oxandrin®. Anabolic steroids can be used to help patients regain weight after surgery, or to treat chronic infection or trauma. The drug has also been used by the bodybuilding community to increase muscle mass and decrease visceral fat. These steroids are thought to work in the body like artificial testosterone.
Potential mild side effects associated with taking oxandrolone may include nausea, vomiting, and headache. More severe side effects, including trouble urinating, breast swelling, and prolonged erections, have also been noted. When taken for bodybuilding purposes, side effects, like reduced erectile function, increased anger, and anxiety may result. Severe side effects should be reported to a physician immediately.
Patients prescribed oxandrolone should fill out a complete medical history before taking the drug. A medical history of kidney problems, high blood pressure, and all types of cancer may affect the decision to prescribe oxandrolone. Blood sugar levels may be decreased when taking Anavar or Oxandrin, so diabetic patients should be wary of taking the medication.
Interactions with other medications may increase health risks associated with taking this anabolic steroid. Corticosteroids, blood thinners, and certain herbal supplements can negatively interact with oxandrolone. Taking corticosteroids with Anavar or Oxandrin® may increase the risk of heart failure or edema.
In the bodybuilding community, oxandrolone is often taken as an oral cutting agent. These are thought to increase muscle hardness, maximize lifting strength, and decrease body fat. Taking oxandrolone without a prescription for bodybuilding purposes is illegal in the United States.
As an anabolic steroid, oxandrolone is considered mild. High doses are typically prescribed to deter wasting, or weight loss, associated with disease. AIDS patients, for instance, can be prescribed 20 to 80 milligrams (mg) to counteract weight loss. Bodybuilders typically take 100 mg or more to achieve optimal cutting effects.
Such steroids are typically cycled in and out of a bodybuilding diet. Cycles may include eight to 12 weeks on the drug, followed by several weeks off, before restarting them. These drugs are often stacked, or taken in conjunction, with other supplements or medications.
Psychological dependence has been noted in the bodybuilding community. During the on cycle, increased muscle gains and energy may leave bodybuilders feeling powerful. During off cycles, gains tend to reduce or cease all together and energy may wane. These negative effects on muscle and energy can lead to drug abuse.