Oral Steroid / DHT Oral

Oxandrolone (Anavar)

Mildest oral AAS. DHT derivative — does not aromatise. Medically used for muscle wasting and burns. Popular for women at low doses due to lower virilisation risk. LFTs every 4 weeks during cycle.

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Educational reference only. This page does not diagnose, prescribe, or replace care from a licensed professional. Laws, availability, and clinical appropriateness vary by location.

Reference doseMen: 20–80 mg/day. Women: 5–20 mg/day. Max 8 weeks.

Half-life9 hours

Risk flaghigh

Regulatory noteResearch-only flag

Side effects and watch-outs

⚠️ Liver toxicity (17-alpha-alkylated — hepatotoxic — LFTs required every 4 weeks)
Severe HDL suppression
LDL elevation
Cardiovascular stress
HPTA suppression (mild-moderate)
Hair loss in predisposed men
Acne
⚠️ Virilisation in women at doses above 20 mg/day — permanent changes possible
⚠️ All oral 17-AA steroids require liver support (TUDCA + milk thistle)