Anabolic steroids like Anavar (oxandrolone) are widely used in the fitness and bodybuilding communities for their reputation as a “mild” performance-enhancing drug (PED). Marketed for fat loss, muscle preservation, and strength gains without extreme bulk, it’s especially popular during cutting cycles.
But even “mild” doesn’t mean safe — and understanding the real risks behind Anavar is critical before considering its use.
We’ll cover:
Let’s dive in — no fluff, just facts.
Anavar, chemically known as oxandrolone, is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) developed in 1962 by Searle Laboratories. Originally approved by the FDA for medical conditions such as weight loss after surgery, severe burns, osteoporosis, and muscle-wasting diseases, it has since become one of the most sought-after PEDs in bodybuilding circles.
Unlike harsher steroids like Trenbolone or Dianabol, Anavar is considered less androgenic, meaning it produces fewer masculinizing effects — which makes it appealing to both men and women.
According to William Llewellyn’s “Anabolics” (2018 edition), oxandrolone binds strongly to androgen receptors but has minimal conversion to estrogen or dihydrotestosterone (DHT), reducing certain side effects like gynecomastia and water retention [Amazon – Anabolics by William Llewellyn] .
Still, being less toxic than other steroids does not mean harmless.
Despite its prescription-only status, Anavar remains prevalent among gym-goers, athletes, and physique competitors due to several perceived advantages:
A 2015 study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that oxandrolone significantly increased lean body mass and improved physical function in older adults undergoing rehabilitation — supporting its muscle-preserving properties [JCEM Study on Oxandrolone in Elderly Patients]
However, these results were observed under controlled medical supervision, not at the high doses often used illicitly in bodybuilding.
Even though Anavar is labeled “mild,” numerous clinical studies and athlete reports confirm that it carries significant health risks — especially when misused.
Let’s break down the side effects based on scientific evidence and expert analysis.
One of the biggest misconceptions about Anavar is that it’s “liver-friendly.”
While it’s true that oral steroids must pass through the liver (via first-pass metabolism), and Anavar is a 17-alpha-alkylated compound — designed to survive this process — this very modification increases hepatotoxicity.
Dr. Michael Ashenden, a leading researcher in blood doping and anti-doping science, emphasizes: “Any oral steroid alters liver enzyme profiles. Just because symptoms aren’t immediate doesn’t mean damage isn’t occurring.” [ResearchGate – Michael Ashenden Profile]
Bottom Line: Anavar is less hepatotoxic than some steroids — but not safe. Regular liver panels (before, during, and after cycles) are non-negotiable.
Anavar negatively impacts lipid profiles — a major red flag for heart disease.
These changes persist beyond the cycle and may take months to normalize — if they do at all.
Dr. Gary I. Donovitz, featured on The Anabolic Doc Podcast, warns:
“Many guys think Anavar is ‘clean’ because they don’t bloat. But inside? Their arteries could be lining up for trouble.” [The Anabolic Doc Podcast – Cardiovascular Risks of PEDs]
Other cardiovascular concerns include:
All anabolic steroids suppress natural testosterone production — including Anavar.
Even at low doses (e.g., 20–30 mg/day), suppression occurs within 2–4 weeks.
A study on male athletes using oxandrolone found that none recovered normal testosterone levels within 4 weeks post-cycle without intervention [PubMed – Hormonal Effects of Oxandrolone]
👉 This means Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is mandatory.
Most experts recommend:
Without PCT, you risk prolonged hypogonadism — sometimes permanent.
Female athletes often choose Anavar because it’s “gentler” — but virilization (development of male characteristics) is still a serious risk.
According to Dr. Charles Yesalis, author of Steroid Nation and pioneer in doping epidemiology:
“Women are more sensitive to androgens. Even small doses can trigger permanent changes.” [Google Scholar – Charles Yesalis Publications]
Recommended dose for women: 5–10 mg/day max, limited to 4–6 weeks.
Beyond that, the odds of irreversible effects rise sharply.
Even if you avoid liver or hormonal issues, Anavar isn’t free of discomfort.
| Side Effect | Cause |
| Hair loss | Androgenic activity on genetically susceptible follicles |
| Acne | Increased sebum production due to androgen stimulation |
| Insomnia | Altered cortisol and hormone rhythms |
| Nausea/GI upset | Oral irritation and liver burden |
Some users also report joint dryness — likely due to reduced systemic inflammation and lack of water retention in connective tissues.
As Greg Doucette notes on his YouTube channel:
“You might look shredded, but your knees feel like sandpaper.” [Greg Doucette – YouTube Channel]
While Anavar is rarely linked to extreme aggression (“roid rage”), mood shifts are real.
Users have reported:
In extreme cases, steroid use correlates with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and exercise addiction — particularly in competitive bodybuilders.
Prof. David Cowan, former Director of King’s College London’s Drug Control Centre, states:
“Steroids don’t just change your body — they alter your brain chemistry. Confidence boosts can quickly turn into obsession.” [King’s College Profile – David Cowan]
Despite anecdotal claims of safety, certain individuals should never use Anavar:
WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) bans Anavar in competition — and testing detects it for up to 3 weeks after last use via GC-MS urine tests [WADA Prohibited List 2024 – S1 Anabolic Agents]
Positive tests result in suspensions, lost sponsorships, and career damage — ask Lance Armstrong or Tyler Hamilton.
We don’t endorse illegal or unsupervised steroid use.
But if someone chooses to proceed despite the risks, here’s how to minimize harm — based on clinical guidelines and expert advice.
| Factor | Recommendation |
| Dosage (Men) | 20–40 mg/day (max 80 mg short-term) |
| Dosage (Women) | 5–10 mg/day (max 6 weeks) |
| Cycle Length | 6–8 weeks maximum |
| Blood Work | Pre-cycle, mid-cycle, post-cycle labs |
| Liver Support | Milk thistle, TUDCA, avoid alcohol |
| Cardio Support | Fish oil, red yeast rice, regular cardio |
| PCT Required? | YES — Clomid/Nolvadex protocol |
| Stacking Risk | Higher toxicity when combined with other orals |
Dr. Jordan Grant, co-host of The Strength and Science Podcast, advises:
“There’s no such thing as risk-free steroid use. But frequent blood work gives you feedback — not excuses.” [Strength and Science Podcast – Hormones & Performance]
Only use third party tested Anavar. Counterfeit products from underground labs (UGLs) often contain incorrect dosages or contaminants.
Want definition, strength, and fat loss — without needles or liver panels?
Consider these science-backed alternatives:
| Supplement | Benefit | Research Support |
| Creatine Monohydrate | Strength & power | [Cochrane Review – Creatine] |
| Caffeine | Fat oxidation & focus | [Sports Medicine – Caffeine & Exercise] |
| Omega-3s | Inflammation & lipids | [NIH – Omega-3 Benefits] |
| Vitamin D | Testosterone support | [PubMed – Vit D and T Levels] |
As Dr. Andrew Huberman says:
“Master the basics first. Most people never get close to their genetic potential — so why jump to synthetics?” [Huberman Lab Podcast – Fitness Fundamentals]
Let’s be clear:
Pros of Anavar:
Cons of Anavar:
And let’s not forget — there is no long-term safety data on recreational Anavar use in healthy adults.
No phase III trials. No decade-long cohort studies. Just anecdotes, case reports, and decades of underground use.
As Dr. John Hoberman, author of Testosterone Dreams and Doping and the Soul of Sport, puts it:
“Steroids promise control over biology — but they ultimately make you dependent on them.” [Amazon – Doping and the Ethics of Winning]
The most common side effects of Anavar include liver stress, decreased HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), testosterone suppression, acne, and hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. In women, even low doses can cause voice deepening and facial hair growth over time.
Yes, Anavar can damage your liver. Although it’s considered milder than other oral steroids, oxandrolone is a 17-alpha-alkylated compound, which increases hepatotoxicity. Clinical studies show elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and rare cases of drug-induced liver injury after prolonged or high-dose use [BMJ Case Reports – Oxandrolone Hepatotoxicity] .
Yes. Anavar negatively affects cardiovascular health by lowering HDL cholesterol and raising LDL levels, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and long-term heart disease. A 2006 study found that just 12 weeks of oxandrolone reduced HDL by up to 50% [PubMed – Oxandrolone and Lipid Profile] .
Yes. Even at moderate doses (e.g., 20–40 mg/day), Anavar suppresses the HPTA axis, leading to reduced luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), resulting in low natural testosterone production. Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is required to restore hormonal balance.
Signs of liver strain include fatigue, nausea, dark urine, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes). However, many users show no symptoms despite abnormal blood work. The best way to monitor impact is through pre-cycle, mid-cycle, and post-cycle liver function tests (LFTs) including ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin.
Anavar is one of the safest anabolic steroids for women due to its low androgenic activity, but it’s not risk-free. Doses above 10 mg/day or cycles longer than 6 weeks increase the risk of virilization: voice deepening (often irreversible), clitoral enlargement, and increased body hair.
No, alcohol should be avoided during an Anavar cycle. Both substances are processed by the liver, and combining them significantly increases the risk of hepatotoxicity. Even moderate drinking can worsen lipid profiles and delay recovery.
No, Anavar does not convert to estrogen via aromatase, so it does not cause gynecomastia directly. However, if stacked with aromatizing compounds like testosterone or Dianabol, estrogenic side effects may occur unless managed with anti-estrogens (e.g., Nolvadex).
Most side effects subside within 4–8 weeks after discontinuation, provided proper PCT is followed. However, some effects — such as voice changes in women or liver damage from misuse — can be permanent. Cholesterol levels may take months to normalize without intervention.
Yes. Despite being mild, Anavar suppresses natural testosterone production. Skipping PCT risks prolonged hypogonadism, causing fatigue, depression, low libido, and muscle loss. Standard PCT includes Clomid or Nolvadex for 4–6 weeks post-cycle, based on blood work results.
Anavar isn’t the “safe steroid” many claim it to be.
It offers real performance benefits — especially for cutting — but comes with measurable health risks backed by clinical research, athlete experiences, and anti-doping science.
If you’re considering Anavar:
Or better yet — focus on what’s legal, sustainable, and truly transformative: consistency in training, nutrition, sleep, and recovery.
Because the best performance enhancer isn’t a pill or injection.
It’s discipline.
