Last updated: March 2026
Oxandrolone (Anavar) is an FDA-approved oral anabolic-androgenic steroid with a uniquely favorable anabolic-to-androgenic ratio. This educational reference covers its pharmacology, documented clinical applications in muscle wasting and burn recovery, hepatotoxicity risks, and suppression profile for harm reduction.
Oxandrolone is a synthetic DHT derivative with a unique modification: an oxygen atom replaces the carbon-2 in the A-ring, increasing anabolic potency while dramatically reducing androgenic activity. The C-17α methyl group enables oral bioavailability.
Oxandrolone binds androgen receptors with high affinity in muscle tissue. The 2-oxa modification creates a uniquely anabolic-selective compound — anabolic:androgenic ratio of approximately 322–630:24 vs testosterone's 100:100 baseline. This selectivity is why it's one of the few AAS with legitimate FDA-approved clinical applications and a safer profile in women.
As a dihydrotestosterone derivative, oxandrolone cannot be aromatized to estrogen. There is no estrogenic activity, no water retention, and no gynecomastia risk from estrogen conversion. This makes it one of the cleanest AAS for lean tissue preservation without estrogenic side effects — though androgenic effects like DHT-related hair loss remain possible.
Despite its mild reputation, oxandrolone is 17α-alkylated and genuinely hepatotoxic. Elevated ALT and AST are common, particularly at higher doses or extended cycles. The liver stress is dose and duration dependent. "Mild" refers to its androgenic and estrogenic profile — not liver safety. Cycle lengths should be limited to 6–8 weeks with liver support.
Oxandrolone suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, though less severely than most other oral AAS. Endogenous LH and FSH are reduced, leading to decreased natural testosterone production. Recovery tends to be faster than with stronger androgens, but PCT with SERMs is still standard practice after cycles longer than 4 weeks in men.
Data from published clinical trials on oxandrolone — including FDA-approved indications for muscle wasting, burn recovery, and Turner syndrome.
Any oral AAS cycle requires liver support and regular bloodwork. Don't skip these harm reduction basics — "mild" doesn't mean liver-safe.
Dosing schedules, interaction warnings, and cycle protocols for 50+ compounds — all in one place.
This page is for educational and harm reduction purposes only. It is not medical advice. Oxandrolone (Anavar) is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 1990. Possession, distribution, or use without a valid prescription is illegal and carries serious legal penalties. Anabolic steroids carry significant health risks including liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and hormonal disruption. Always consult a qualified physician before making any decisions regarding hormone use. MeetPeptide does not endorse or encourage the use of controlled substances.