Oxandrolone (Anavar)
Oxandrolone (17α-methyl-2-oxa-5α-androstan-17β-ol-3-one)
Preserve muscle, lose fat, and rebuild strength
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Quick Reference
| Peptide Class | Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid |
| Half-Life | 9-10 hours |
| Administration | Oral |
| Typical Dosage | 10-40mg/day men; 5-10mg/day women |
| Cycle Length | 6-12 weeks with PCT |
| Evidence Level | Strong Human Clinical |
| Legal Status | Schedule III controlled substance; prescription only |
| Approximate Cost | $80-200/month via telehealth pharmacy |
How Oxandrolone (Anavar) Works
Binds androgen receptors to stimulate protein synthesis and nitrogen retention with low androgenic activity
Oxandrolone binds to androgen receptors in muscle tissue, stimulating protein synthesis and nitrogen retention. It has low androgenic activity relative to its anabolic potency (anabolic:androgenic ratio of 322-633 vs testosterone's 100:100), making it suitable for both men and women at therapeutic doses. It also reduces visceral fat through androgen receptor-mediated mechanisms.
Evidence Base
Preclinical Evidence
Animal studies confirm anabolic effects and visceral fat reduction.
Human Evidence
FDA-approved for muscle wasting. Multiple RCTs confirm body recomposition benefits in healthy adults.
Anecdotal Evidence
Users report lean muscle gains, visible fat loss, and improved strength within 4-6 weeks.
Key PubMed References:
Safety Profile
Side Effects
Liver enzyme elevation (monitor with regular labs). Lipid changes (reduced HDL, increased LDL). Mild androgenic effects in women at higher doses. Testosterone suppression in men (post-cycle therapy may be needed).
Contraindications
Prostate or breast cancer. Pregnancy. Severe hepatic impairment. Requires physician supervision and regular lab monitoring.
PeptidePilot Assessment
Oxandrolone is PeptidePilot's top recommendation for users prioritizing body recomposition — simultaneous muscle gain and fat loss — particularly those over 40 experiencing age-related muscle loss. Its FDA approval and extensive safety data make it a credible first choice in this category.
📊 7% of PeptidePilot users with muscle building and fat loss as co-primary concerns receive Oxandrolone as their top match
Frequently Asked Questions
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