Anavar is the brand name for Oxandrolone, an oral anabolic–androgenic steroid that was first described in 1962 and introduced for medical use in 1964 . It was originally prescribed to help people regain weight after surgery, chronic infections, or trauma, and to treat bone pain due to osteoporosis and muscle wasting . Over time, it also gained popularity in bodybuilding and athletic communities due to its muscle‑building and strength‑enhancing effects.

Mechanism of Action

Oxandrolone functions similarly to the hormone testosterone. As a derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), it binds to the androgen receptor, promoting protein synthesis, muscle growth, and red blood cell production while exhibiting relatively mild androgenic effects . It does not convert to estrogen and has a high anabolic-to-androgenic activity ratio, making it one of the milder oral steroids in terms of androgenic side effects. Its bioavailability is high (~97%) and it has a half-life of 9–10 hours in adults

Uses

Medically, Anavar was used for:

• Promoting weight gain after surgery, trauma, chronic infection, or severe illness .

• Relieving bone pain in osteoporosis.

• Treating muscle-wasting disorders, including in HIV/AIDS, severe burns, or idiopathic weight loss

  Adverse Effects

  Oxandrolone is generally considered one of the safer anabolic steroids, but it still presents significant risks:

  Liver toxicity:
  Despite early belief it was non-toxic to the liver, cases of elevated liver enzymes, liver tumors, cysts, and liver failure have been documented, especially with high doses or prolonged use .

  Cardiovascular risks:
  Users may experience elevated blood pressure, unfavorable shifts in cholesterol (increased LDL, decreased HDL), and increased hematocrit—all factors contributing to heart disease and thrombotic risks . High doses may also provoke tachycardia or arrhythmia.

  Hormonal and reproductive effects:
  In men, it may suppress natural testosterone, leading to testicular atrophy, reduced fertility, or libido changes . In women, virilization effects—such as voice deepening, hirsutism, menstrual disruption, or clitoral enlargement—may occur, sometimes irreversibly.

  Androgenic and dermatologic effects:
  Despite a favorable ratio, acne, oily skin, hair loss, increased body hair, or aggressive behavior may still occur in some users.

  Metabolic effects and mood changes:
  Oxandrolone can raise blood sugar levels and alter mood, leading to irritability, anxiety, depression, or aggression . Psychiatric effects including dependence and mood swings have been reported in misuse contexts