Anadrol 50

Anadrol 50 is the brand name for the anabolic steroid Oxymetholone. In the world of bodybuilding and performance enhancement, it is often referred to as “A-Bombs” or “A50.” It is widely considered the single most powerful oral steroid for building raw mass, often regarded as a “heavy artillery” compound for bulking.

Developed in the 1960s by the pharmaceutical company Syntex, it was originally designed to treat muscle wasting diseases and severe anemia (low red blood cell count).

1. The “50” Designation

The number “50” refers to the dosage strength of the tablets. Unlike Dianabol (which usually comes in 5mg, 10mg, or 50mg), Anadrol is famously standardized at 50 milligrams per tablet.

• Appearance: Anadrol 50 tablets are typically round and vary in color (often green, pink, or yellow depending on the manufacturer). They are usually unmarked or have a simple score line. They are distinguishable from other steroids by their “peanut butter” smell and distinct taste.

2. Mechanism and Effects

Anadrol belongs to the DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) family, but it has been modified to act in the body differently than its parent hormone.

• Mass and Strength Gains: Anadrol is unrivaled in its ability to add rapid size. Users often report gaining 20 to 30 pounds in a matter of weeks. Much of this is due to water retention (bloat), but it also triggers significant lean muscle hypertrophy.
• Red Blood Cell Production: This is Anadrol’s primary medical trait. It drastically increases red blood cell count, improving oxygen delivery to the muscles. This leads to massive “pumps” during workouts and delays the onset of fatigue.
• Appetite Stimulation: While some steroids suppress appetite, Anadrol is known to make users incredibly hungry, which aids in the calorie surplus needed for growth.

3. The Estrogen Paradox

This is one of the most unique aspects of Anadrol. It is a DHT derivative, which means it cannot aromatize (convert to estrogen) through the aromatase enzyme.

• However, it causes massive estrogenic side effects like gynecomastia (bitch tits) and severe water retention.
• Why? Scientists believe Oxymetholone mimics estrogen directly or activates the estrogen receptor without actually converting to estrogen.
• The Implication: Aromatase inhibitors (like Arimidex) are often ineffective at treating Anadrol side effects because the drug doesn’t convert to estrogen in the first place. Users often have to rely on Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) like Nolvadex to prevent gyno.

4. Side Effects (The Heavy Cost)

Anadrol is arguably the harshest oral steroid on the liver and cardiovascular system.

• Hepatotoxicity: Anadrol is a 17-alpha-alkylated (17-aa) oral steroid, meaning it passes through the liver to remain active. It is extremely toxic to the liver. Liver values (AST/ALT) can spike rapidly. Cycle lengths are usually kept very short (4 to 6 weeks) to prevent permanent liver damage.
• Blood Pressure: Because it causes significant water retention, blood pressure can skyrocket. This is the most immediate danger of an Anadrol cycle.
• “Drol Dick”: Paradoxically, for a steroid that makes you huge, Anadrol is notorious for causing erectile dysfunction and low libido in some users. It drastically suppresses natural testosterone production (the HPTA axis), often causing “shutdown” faster than almost any other steroid.
• Insomnia and Headaches: The intense pumps and changes in blood chemistry frequently lead to severe headaches and difficulty sleeping.

5. Anadrol vs. Dianabol

A common comparison is made between Anadrol and Dianabol (Methandrostenolone), as both are mass-building orals.

• Dianabol: Generally milder on the liver and blood pressure. Users report a “sense of well-being” and high libido.
• Anadrol: Stronger for raw mass, but harsher on the body. Users often report feeling “flat” or bloated, with lower energy levels and headaches.

Summary

Anadrol 50 is the steroid of choice for those looking to gain maximum size in the shortest amount of time. It acts fast and produces dramatic results, but the cost is high. It poses significant risks to the liver and cardiovascular system. It is typically viewed as a “kickstart” compound used for the first 4-6 weeks of a bulking cycle, after which it is discontinued to relieve stress on the body while injectables continue to work. It is not recommended for beginners due to the severity of its side effects.