What it is
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is an oral anabolic steroid originally developed in the 1960s for medical use, including treating muscle wasting, severe weight loss, and osteoporosis. It is often described as a 'mild' steroid, which is partly true in terms of its side effect profile relative to other compounds, but 'milder' does not mean safe.
What it does
Anavar promotes lean muscle gains without significant water retention, giving a harder, drier look. It increases strength disproportionately to the amount of muscle mass gained. It is also used in cutting phases to help preserve muscle while in a caloric deficit. It does not aromatise (convert to oestrogen).
Typical dosages
Men: 40–80mg per day is commonly reported. Women: 5–20mg per day. Cycles are typically 6–8 weeks. The oral form means it passes through the liver, which is why cycles are kept shorter than injectable compounds. Higher doses and longer cycles increase liver and cholesterol impact significantly.
These figures reflect commonly reported usage in harm reduction communities. They are not recommendations. There is no safe dose of anabolic steroids for non-medical use. Start low and monitor your health through blood work.
Side effects
- Suppression of natural testosterone (yes, even 'mild' compounds do this)
- Negative impact on cholesterol, particularly HDL (good cholesterol)
- Liver strain (less than other orals, but still present)
- Hair loss (if genetically predisposed)
- Acne
- For women: virilisation at higher doses (deepening voice, facial hair)
Specific risks
- Cholesterol: anavar can significantly lower HDL cholesterol, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This is often overlooked because the compound is considered 'mild'
- Counterfeits: anavar is one of the most commonly faked steroids. What is sold as anavar is frequently a cheaper compound like dianabol or winstrol. Testing your gear is particularly important with anavar
- False sense of safety: the 'mild' reputation leads many users to skip blood work or PCT. This is a mistake, because anavar still suppresses the HPTA axis
What to watch for
- Get blood work done, specifically check your lipids (cholesterol panel)
- Upper right abdominal pain or discomfort (liver)
- Unusual fatigue after stopping (sign of suppression without adequate PCT)
- If the compound is giving you significant water retention, it may not be real anavar
Other compounds
Testosterone
Lower/Moderate RiskThe base of almost every steroid cycle. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and the most commonly used anabolic steroid.
Trenbolone
Extreme RiskOne of the most powerful and dangerous steroids in common use. Extremely potent but with a severe side effect profile that makes it unsuitable for most users.
Dianabol (Methandrostenolone)
Higher RiskOne of the oldest and most popular oral steroids. Known for rapid mass and strength gains, but with significant water retention and liver strain.