Stanozolol (Winstrol) for Lean Mass & Hereditary Angioedema — Anabolic Steroids
DHT-derived AAS available in oral and injectable forms, FDA-approved for hereditary angioedema.
Overview
Stanozolol (Winstrol/Winstrol Depot) is a DHT-derived anabolic steroid notable for its oral and injectable (aqueous suspension) formulations. FDA-approved for hereditary angioedema prophylaxis, it is also one of the most recognizable AAS due to the 1988 Ben Johnson Olympic scandal. Stanozolol does NOT aromatize and does not convert to DHT (already a DHT derivative), producing a dry, lean appearance. It lowers SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) significantly, increasing free testosterone. The injectable form is a water-based suspension (not oil-based), which has a shorter half-life and can cause injection site pain. Stanozolol is 17-alpha-alkylated with significant hepatotoxicity risk, and it has a pronounced negative impact on cholesterol profiles.
Indications
- Hereditary angioedema prophylaxis (FDA-approved)
- Lean mass preservation during caloric restriction
- Body composition optimization without water retention
- Strength enhancement without significant weight gain
- Aplastic anemia (historical medical use)
- Veterinary use in horses for appetite and lean mass
Mechanism of Action
Prophylaxis of angioedema attacks (medical) or lean body composition without water retention (non-medical)
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanozolol | 2 mg | Three times daily | FDA-approved for hereditary angioedema prophylaxis |
| Stanozolol | 10-25 mg | Once or twice daily | Oral dosing for body composition; significant hepatotoxicity risk |
| Stanozolol Depot | 25-50 mg | Every other day | Water-based injectable suspension; same hepatotoxicity as oral form |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- 17-alpha-alkylated - SIGNIFICANT hepatotoxicity
- Schedule III controlled substance
- Dramatically worsens cholesterol: severe HDL suppression and LDL elevation
- Does NOT aromatize - no estrogenic side effects
- No conversion to DHT but strong androgenic effects on hair/skin
- Joint discomfort common - reduces synovial fluid ('dry joints')
- Can cause tendon brittleness at higher doses
- Virilization risk in females even at low doses
- Monitor liver function closely - cases of peliosis hepatis reported
- Oral and injectable forms are both hepatotoxic (17-alpha-alkylated in both forms)
- Suppresses natural testosterone production