Stanozolol

Stanozolol

Stanozolol is a synthetic anabolic steroid derived from dihydrotestosterone. It was developed by American pharmaceutical company Winthrop Laboratories in 1962, and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for human use, though it is no longer marketed in the United States. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under federal regulation, and is also banned from use in most major sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Medical uses

Stanozolol has been used in both animal and human patients for a number of conditions. In humans, it has been demonstrated to be successful in treating anaemia and hereditary angioedema. Veterinarians may prescribe the drug to improve muscle growth, red blood cell production, increase bone density and stimulate the appetite of debilitated or weakened animals.

Side effects

The side effects of Stanozolol include those commonly associated with anabolic steroids, such as acne, abnormal hair growth, and deepening of the voice. More serious side effects can include liver damage, cardiovascular strain, and behavioral changes. Stanozolol has a low androgenic effect, which reduces the likelihood and severity of these side effects.

Pharmacology

Stanozolol is a non-aromatizable steroid, which means it does not convert to estrogen in the body. This makes it a popular choice among bodybuilders and athletes for its ability to increase muscle mass without the risk of estrogenic side effects like water retention or gynecomastia.

Society and culture

Stanozolol has been involved in several high-profile doping scandals in professional sports, most notably in the case of Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson at the 1988 Summer Olympics. Johnson was stripped of his gold medal after testing positive for the drug.

See also

• List of androgens/anabolic steroids
• List of Schedule III drugs (US)