Anadrol – the definition of a bulking agent
Anadrol, also known as Oxymetholone, is one of the most powerful anabolic steroids for rapid muscle and strength gains. Originally developed for medical use in treating anemia and muscle-wasting diseases, Anadrol has since gained popularity in bodybuilding for its massive bulking effects. Unlike cutting steroids such as Winstrol or Anavar, Anadrol is designed for sheer size and power, making it a favorite for off-season bodybuilders and strength athletes.
Mechanism of Action
Anadrol is a DHT derivative, but it does not behave like one. Unlike most DHT derivatives, it is incredibly anabolic and causes mild water retention instead of hardening effects. This is what makes it suitable for bulking cycles, while most DHT derivatives are typically used for cutting purposes. Additionally, while it does not increase estrogen or prolactin levels, it interacts with estrogen and progesterone receptors, which allows it to build more muscle (while also increasing the risk of certain side-effects, more info on that below).
Benefits of Anadrol
Unmatched Muscle Mass Gains
Anadrol is one of the most effective bulking steroids, with users reporting gains of 15–20 lbs (7–10 kg) in just 4–6 weeks. These gains are often a combination of muscle mass, water retention, and glycogen storage.
Extreme Strength Increase
Users experience dramatic improvements in strength, allowing them to lift heavier weights and break plateaus in training. This makes Anadrol especially popular among powerlifters and strongmen.
Enhanced Recovery and Endurance
By increasing red blood cell production, Anadrol improves oxygen delivery to muscles, reducing fatigue and allowing for longer, more intense workouts.
Joint Lubrication and Full Muscles
Unlike hardening DHT derivatives like Winstrol and Masteron, Anadrol promotes fluid retention, which can lubricate joints and reduce discomfort from heavy lifting. This is beneficial for powerlifters and strength athletes.
Faster Muscle Volume Expansion
Anadrol pulls water and glycogen into muscle cells, creating a fuller, rounder appearance that enhances the pump effect during workouts.
Potential Side Effects
Despite its powerful anabolic effects, Anadrol is known for its strong estrogenic and hepatotoxic side effects:
Estrogenic Side Effects (High Risk)
- Severe Water Retention & Bloating – Anadrol causes significant water retention, leading to a puffy look.
- High Blood Pressure – Excess fluid retention can raise blood pressure, increasing cardiovascular risk.
- Gynecomastia (Gyno) – While Anadrol does not aromatize into estrogen, it can activate estrogen receptors, leading to gyno-related symptoms.
NOTE: Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) like Tamoxifen and Raloxifene can help manage estrogenic effects, but Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) are ineffective.
Androgenic Side Effects
- Acne & Oily Skin – Anadrol increases sebaceous gland activity, causing breakouts.
- Hair Loss (In Genetically Prone Individuals) – Though less androgenic than Testosterone, Anadrol can accelerate hair thinning in those predisposed.
Liver Toxicity
As a C-17 alpha-alkylated oral steroid, Anadrol is highly toxic to the liver, so using liver support ancillaries and limiting cycles to 4 weeks is essential.
Testosterone Suppression
Anadrol strongly suppresses testosterone production, requiring Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) if the user is not cruising.
Recommended Dosage and Cycle Length
- Beginner Dose: 25–50 mg per day – Significant gains with manageable side effects.
- Intermediate Dose: 50–75 mg per day – Faster size and strength gains but with higher risk of side effects.
- Advanced Dose: 100 mg per day – Extreme mass and power but with increased side effects.
Cycle length is generally kept at 4 weeks, although it is possible to extend it to 6 weeks if low doses (25mg/day) are used. Due to its short half-life (~8–9 hours), Anadrol is often split into two servings per day for stable blood levels.
Anadrol (Oxymetholone) is one of the most powerful mass-building steroids, offering unmatched size, strength, and muscle fullness in a short period. However, its strong estrogenic effects, high liver toxicity, and testosterone suppression require careful management.
When used responsibly, Anadrol can be a game-changing bulking compound, but it should only be used by experienced steroid users who understand how to control its side effects and follow a proper PCT or cruise.
