Winstrol (Stanozolol) — DHT-Derivative AAS — Anabolic Steroids
FDA-approved DHT-derivative for hereditary angioedema. Known for strength gains without water retention. Significant hepatotoxicity and joint issues.
Overview
Stanozolol (Winstrol) is a 17-alpha-alkylated DHT-derivative anabolic steroid with an anabolic:androgenic ratio of 320:30. Originally developed by Winthrop Laboratories in 1962, stanozolol is FDA-approved for the prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks, where it reduces the frequency and severity of edematous episodes by increasing C1 esterase inhibitor and C4 levels. Stanozolol gained infamy when Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson tested positive at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. It is available in both oral and injectable (aqueous suspension) forms, both of which are 17-alpha-alkylated and therefore hepatotoxic — unlike most injectable AAS. Stanozolol's appeal in bodybuilding lies in its ability to promote strength, lean mass, and vascularity without aromatization to estrogen and without water retention. It has strong effects on lowering SHBG, increasing free testosterone when used alongside testosterone. However, stanozolol is notably harsh on joints — it reduces synovial fluid production, leading to dry, painful joints. It is also one of the more hepatotoxic oral steroids, associated with cholestatic jaundice and peliosis hepatis, and produces some of the most dramatic adverse lipid changes of any AAS.
Indications
- FDA-approved: Hereditary angioedema prophylaxis
- Historical: Aplastic anemia, osteoporosis
- Unapproved: Lean mass and strength without water retention (bodybuilding use)
- Unapproved: Pre-contest physique preparation
Mechanism of Action
Stanozolol binds the AR with high anabolic selectivity, promoting nitrogen retention and protein synthesis with lower androgenic activity
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanozolol | 2 mg | Three times daily | FDA-approved HAE prophylaxis dose |
| Stanozolol | 25-50 mg | Once daily | Common bodybuilding dose — 4-6 weeks max |
| Stanozolol (aqueous) | 50 mg | Every other day | Injectable form — still hepatotoxic (17-alpha-alkylated) |
Safety & Contraindications
- Hepatotoxicity: 17-alpha-alkylated in BOTH oral AND injectable forms
- Severe adverse lipid effects: dramatic HDL reduction, LDL elevation
- Joint dryness and pain — reduces synovial fluid production
- Tendon weakening — increased rupture risk (combined with strength gains)
- Hair loss acceleration in MPB-susceptible individuals
- Acne — often severe
- Virilization in women at even low doses
- Schedule III controlled substance