Anadrol (Oxymetholone): Uses, Effects & Risks
Anadrol (active ingredient: oxymetholone) is a synthetic anabolic steroid used medically to treat anemia and muscle wasting conditions.
Things worth knowing about "Anadrol"
Anadrol (active ingredient: oxymetholone) is a synthetic anabolic steroid used medically to treat anemia and muscle wasting conditions.
What Is Anadrol?
Anadrol is the brand name for the synthetic anabolic compound oxymetholone, an orally administered anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS). Developed in the 1960s, it is used medically primarily for the treatment of certain types of anemia (low red blood cell count) and to preserve muscle mass in patients with severe illnesses. Outside of the medical context, Anadrol is misused in competitive sports and bodybuilding for performance enhancement.
Indications (Medical Uses)
Anadrol is prescribed for the following medical conditions:
- Aplastic anemia: A severe form of anemia in which the bone marrow fails to produce sufficient blood cells.
- Myelofibrosis: A bone marrow disorder that impairs blood cell production.
- HIV/AIDS-related muscle wasting: To help maintain body mass in patients experiencing significant weight loss.
- Osteoporosis: Historically used in some countries to support bone health.
Mechanism of Action
Oxymetholone acts as a synthetic androgen, binding to androgen receptors in the body and stimulating protein synthesis in muscle cells. It also stimulates the production of erythropoietin (EPO) in the kidneys, a hormone that promotes the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow. This increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which is therapeutically beneficial for patients with anemia.
Dosage
Medical dosing of Anadrol varies depending on the indication and the patient body weight. Typical therapeutic doses range from 1 to 5 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into multiple doses. The exact dosage is always determined individually by the treating physician. Self-medication without medical supervision is dangerous and is not legally available without a prescription in most countries.
Side Effects
Anadrol carries a significant side effect profile. Common and potentially serious side effects include:
- Liver toxicity: Elevated liver enzyme levels, peliosis hepatis (blood-filled cysts in the liver), and in severe cases, liver failure.
- Cardiovascular risks: Worsened cholesterol profile, increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Hormonal disturbances: Suppression of natural testosterone production, gynecomastia (breast tissue development in men).
- Virilization in women: Increased body hair, voice changes, and disruption of the menstrual cycle.
- Psychological effects: Mood swings, aggression, and potential for dependence.
- In adolescents: Premature closure of growth plates leading to stunted growth.
Legal Status
In the United States, Anadrol (oxymetholone) is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. In most European countries, it is a prescription-only medicine. Possession, purchase, or sale without a valid medical prescription is illegal. In sports, the use of oxymetholone is explicitly prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
References
- Kicman AT. Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British Journal of Pharmacology. 2008;154(3):502-521.
- U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Controlled Substances - Anabolic Steroids. www.dea.gov
- World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA): Prohibited List 2024. www.wada-ama.org
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