When it comes to oral anabolic steroids, few comparisons are as polarizing—or as revealing—as Anavar (Oxandrolone) vs. Superdrol (Methasterone). Both compounds have earned dedicated followings in the performance enhancement world, but for very different reasons. One is widely viewed as one of the safest oral steroids available, while the other is regarded as one of the strongest and most toxic.
Whether your goal is to build dense, dry muscle, increase strength without excessive water retention, or push through a plateau with maximum intensity, understanding the mechanisms, benefits, risks, and use cases of these two compounds is essential. In this article, we break down the science behind how Anavar and Superdrol work, who they’re best suited for, and how to structure a safe and effective cycle—starting with their pharmacology.
How Anavar Works: Mechanism of Action and Metabolic Role
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is a C17α-alkylated derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), originally developed in 1962 by Searle Laboratories (now Pfizer) for clinical use in treating muscle wasting, severe burns, osteoporosis, and growth disorders.
What distinguishes Anavar is its excellent anabolic rating (~322–630) and extremely low androgenic rating (~24), offering users a powerful tool for muscle preservation and lean mass development with a minimal risk of virilization or androgenic side effects.
1. Binding to the Androgen Receptor
Anavar exerts its effects primarily through androgen receptor (AR) binding in skeletal muscle cells, initiating a cascade of genetic signals that:
-
Increase protein synthesis and myofibrillar hypertrophy
-
Inhibit catabolic glucocorticoid hormones
-
Promote nitrogen retention and intracellular amino acid uptake
This results in enhanced muscle repair and growth, particularly during cutting or caloric deficit phases.
“Oxandrolone enhances anabolic activity while sparing androgenic effects, making it highly effective for muscle maintenance in calorie-restricted conditions.”
— Kicman, British Journal of Pharmacology
2. No Aromatization
Anavar does not convert to estrogen via the aromatase enzyme. This eliminates the risk of:
-
Gynecomastia
-
Water retention
-
Fat gain from estrogenic rebound
It is ideal for individuals looking for a dry, tight, aesthetic physique—especially in preparation for competition or body recomposition.
3. Increased Phosphocreatine and ATP Regeneration
Anavar enhances phosphocreatine resynthesis, which may explain its consistent effects on strength and endurance performance without dramatic size increases. It also improves muscle ATP turnover, giving users a noticeable increase in power output during resistance training.
4. Hepatic Stability and Bioavailability
Although Anavar is a C17α-alkylated compound and therefore orally bioavailable, it exhibits less liver strain than most other oral AAS when used at moderate doses. Studies show that therapeutic doses have a minimal impact on hepatic enzymes, though higher bodybuilder-style dosages can still present risks.
How Superdrol Works: Mechanism of Action and Performance Impact
Superdrol (Methasterone) is a C17α-alkylated oral anabolic steroid first introduced in the early 2000s as a “designer prohormone,” although it is chemically a fully active steroid. It was originally described in 1956 by Syntex Corporation during early anabolic steroid research but was never brought to market pharmaceutically. Its sudden popularity emerged due to its extreme anabolic potency, relatively low androgenic profile, and fast-acting results—especially for size and strength gains.
Superdrol has an anabolic rating of ~400–800 and an androgenic rating of ~20, making it one of the most powerful oral steroids ever used in bodybuilding.
1. Rapid Protein Synthesis and Muscle Fiber Expansion
Superdrol binds to androgen receptors in skeletal muscle tissue, where it rapidly stimulates:
-
Protein synthesis at the ribosomal level
-
Satellite cell activation and myonuclear recruitment
-
Glycogen storage, improving muscle fullness and strength
The net effect is dramatic muscle size gains, often within 7–10 days of use, especially when paired with a calorie surplus.
“Methasterone’s muscle-building capabilities are comparable to high doses of injectable AAS, but with the convenience and intensity of an oral compound.”
— Llewellyn, Anabolics
2. Increased Intracellular Water and Glycogen Retention
Unlike Anavar, Superdrol does not aromatize, but it still causes intracellular water retention and glycogen supercompensation within the muscle cells. This creates a look of dense, inflated muscle mass, though some users may mistake it for bloating.
This cellular volumization contributes to:
-
Explosive strength increases
-
Greater pump and muscle fullness
-
A rapid jump in scale weight
3. No Estrogen Conversion, But Estrogen-Like Side Effects
Despite not converting to estrogen, Superdrol may still indirectly suppress estrogen clearance or cause progesterone-related side effects at high doses or when stacked improperly. Symptoms may include:
-
Water retention
-
Blood pressure spikes
-
Libido changes
Its strong suppressive effects on endogenous testosterone also lead to rapid shutdown, which must be addressed with a robust PCT protocol.
4. High Hepatotoxicity
Superdrol is among the most hepatotoxic oral steroids ever used in bodybuilding. The C17α-alkylation allows it to pass through the liver intact for oral bioavailability, but this causes significant elevation in:
-
Liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
-
LDL cholesterol
-
Blood pressure
“Despite its potency, methasterone poses considerable hepatotoxic and cardiovascular risk, especially when used at supratherapeutic doses.”
— Basaria, Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
Because of these risks, cycle lengths should be kept short (3–4 weeks), and supportive liver health protocols are mandatory.
Benefits of Anavar (Oxandrolone)
Anavar has built its reputation on being one of the safest and most versatile oral steroids in modern performance enhancement. It’s favored not just by bodybuilders, but also by female athletes, MMA fighters, and recomposition-focused lifters due to its unique balance of muscle-building potential, low androgenicity, and high bioavailability.
While it doesn’t offer the explosive gains of stronger compounds like Superdrol, Anavar’s real strength lies in its ability to deliver quality muscle, strength, and performance enhancement with minimal water retention and side effects.
1. Lean Muscle Preservation During Cutting
Anavar shines in caloric deficit environments where muscle loss is a constant risk. Its ability to increase protein synthesis while inhibiting catabolism makes it a cornerstone of cutting cycles and contest prep.
-
Helps preserve fat-free mass
-
Ideal for athletes looking to maintain strength while getting lean
-
Provides visual hardness and definition without bloat
“Oxandrolone improves nitrogen retention in muscle tissue, which is critical for preserving lean mass during weight loss phases.”
— Kicman, British Journal of Pharmacology
2. Strength Without Size
Unlike bulking compounds that increase bodyweight rapidly, Anavar offers strength gains through:
-
Enhanced phosphocreatine resynthesis
-
Better ATP regeneration during anaerobic effort
-
Neuromuscular efficiency, especially in compound lifts
This makes it particularly attractive to:
-
Powerlifters in lower weight classes
-
CrossFit and MMA athletes seeking explosive power
-
Combat sport athletes cutting weight but maintaining output
3. No Estrogenic Side Effects
Anavar does not aromatize, meaning there is no conversion to estradiol. This eliminates:
-
Gynecomastia
-
Water retention
-
Estrogen-related fat accumulation
Physique-focused athletes benefit from this with dry gains and a visibly harder aesthetic.
4. Female Friendly
Anavar is considered the go-to steroid for women because of its:
-
Low androgenic activity
-
Minimal risk of virilization at controlled doses (5–10 mg/day)
-
Predictable results in strength and physique development
This makes it a top choice for female figure competitors, bikini athletes, and powerlifters.
“Oxandrolone offers the most favorable anabolic-to-androgenic ratio for women looking to enhance lean tissue without severe androgenic effects.”
— Llewellyn, Anabolics
5. Therapeutic and Clinical Applications
Even in medical settings, Anavar is used to:
-
Reverse muscle-wasting disorders
-
Improve bone mineral density in osteoporosis
-
Accelerate recovery from trauma, burns, or surgery
This highlights its clinical-grade tolerability, particularly when used at moderate bodybuilding doses (20–50 mg/day in men).
Benefits of Superdrol (Methasterone)
Superdrol is often referred to as one of the most powerful oral anabolic steroids available, and for good reason. Originally sold under the guise of a “prohormone,” it delivers extreme anabolic activity with rapid size and strength gains—often rivaling or exceeding those of injectable compounds.
Superdrol is not for the faint of heart. While its toxicity profile requires strict cycle management and post-cycle therapy (PCT), its performance benefits are undeniable when used properly.
1. Explosive Muscle Mass and Fullness
Superdrol’s appeal lies in its ability to increase lean muscle mass dramatically in a short time. Many users report gains of 8–12 lbs of scale weight within the first 2–3 weeks of a cycle.
This is largely due to:
-
Hyper-accelerated protein synthesis and nitrogen retention
-
Improved glycogen uptake within muscle cells
-
Increased intracellular water retention (not subcutaneous, so the gains appear full—not bloated)
“Methasterone’s structural enhancements produce an intense anabolic response, especially when paired with high-protein, high-calorie diets.”
— Roberts, Anabolic Steroids: Ultimate Research Guide
2. Rapid Strength Gains
Superdrol is favored by power athletes and strength-focused bodybuilders for its unmatched ability to increase power output in a short window. Strength increases often include:
-
10–20% improvements in major compound lifts
-
Noticeable plateau-breaking effects in advanced trainees
-
Significant improvements in neuromuscular drive and work capacity
This makes Superdrol a common inclusion in:
-
Short-term strength bursts before meets or testing
-
Mass-building phases where progress has stalled
-
Bridge cycles between heavier injectable stacks (though controversial)
3. No Estrogenic Conversion
Although Superdrol can cause estrogen-like side effects, it does not aromatize. This means:
-
No direct conversion to estradiol
-
Reduced risk of gynecomastia compared to aromatizing compounds
-
Gains are denser and dryer than those from Dianabol or Anadrol
However, its impact on estrogen clearance and potential progesterone-related water retention must still be considered, particularly at higher doses.
4. Hardening and Cosmetic Impact
Despite being a bulking agent, Superdrol often produces a visibly harder, grainier physique—especially in users who are already lean. The combination of:
-
Dry gains
-
Vascularity
-
Glycogen-filled muscle bellies
creates a dramatic “3D look” highly prized in bodybuilding.
5. Short Cycle, Fast Results
Unlike milder steroids that require long cycles to accumulate results, Superdrol:
-
Works fast—visible changes in 7–10 days
-
Can be run in short 3–4 week bursts
-
Allows for strategic planning around photo shoots, events, or plateaus
Its short-acting nature makes it flexible, but also requires precise dosing and monitoring due to its impact on liver enzymes and cardiovascular markers.
“Methasterone’s speed of action and dramatic strength increases make it a powerful but volatile compound. It’s best used sparingly, with structured support.”
— Basaria, Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
Side Effects and Health Risks: Anavar vs. Superdrol
Both Anavar and Superdrol are oral anabolic steroids, but they exist on opposite ends of the risk spectrum. Anavar is known for its mild side effect profile, even at moderate doses, while Superdrol is considered one of the most hepatotoxic and suppressive oral steroids on the market. Understanding how each compound impacts your health is critical for safe and effective use.
1. Liver Toxicity (Hepatotoxicity)
Both compounds are C17α-alkylated, which allows them to survive oral ingestion—but at a cost.
| Compound | Hepatotoxicity Level | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Anavar | Mild to Moderate | Generally well-tolerated at doses ≤50 mg/day; ALT/AST elevation is dose-dependent and often reversible. |
| Superdrol | Severe | Known for rapid and dramatic elevation of liver enzymes even at moderate doses (20–30 mg/day); associated with hepatocellular stress and cholestasis. |
“Superdrol presents serious hepatotoxic risk, including jaundice, elevated bilirubin, and enzyme spikes within 10–14 days of use.”
— Krishna et al., Hepatology Communications (2017)
2. Cardiovascular Risks
Both steroids negatively affect lipid profiles, but Superdrol is far more aggressive in its disruption.
| Risk Marker | Anavar | Superdrol |
|---|---|---|
| HDL Cholesterol | Moderate decrease | Severe suppression |
| LDL Cholesterol | Mild to moderate increase | Significant increase |
| Blood Pressure | Minimal at low doses | Often elevated due to water retention and vascular constriction |
Superdrol users frequently report:
-
Shortness of breath during exertion
-
Facial flushing
-
Increased resting heart rate
Cardiovascular monitoring is essential, especially during extended or repeated Superdrol cycles.
3. Testosterone Suppression
Both compounds suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis (HPTA), though to different degrees.
| Metric | Anavar | Superdrol |
|---|---|---|
| Suppression | Mild to moderate | High, often complete shutdown |
| Onset | Gradual (2–3 weeks) | Immediate (within 5–7 days) |
| Recovery Time | 4–6 weeks post-cycle | Requires aggressive PCT |
“Methasterone demonstrates rapid suppression of endogenous gonadotropins, often resulting in complete testosterone shutdown within the first week of administration.”
— Basaria, JCEM (2006)
4. Estrogenic and Androgenic Side Effects
| Side Effect | Anavar | Superdrol |
|---|---|---|
| Aromatization | None | None |
| Water Retention | None | Possible (intracellular, not subcutaneous) |
| Gynecomastia | Unlikely | Indirect risk (via estrogen/progesterone imbalance) |
| Acne / Oily Skin | Rare | Moderate |
| Aggression / Mood | Low incidence | More pronounced |
| Hair Loss (DHT-related) | Possible in sensitive users | More likely at higher doses |
While both drugs are non-aromatizing, Superdrol’s potency may lead to progesterone-mediated side effects or estrogen rebound if not followed by proper PCT.
5. Female-Specific Risks
Anavar is considered the most female-friendly anabolic steroid due to its low androgenic activity. Superdrol, however, is never recommended for women under any circumstance due to:
-
High virilization risk
-
Unpredictable androgenic effects
-
Severe suppression and toxicity
Recommended Dosages and Cycle Design: Anavar vs. Superdrol
Designing a safe and effective cycle with Anavar or Superdrol depends on your goals, experience level, and tolerance for side effects. While both are orally bioavailable and fast-acting, their cycle durations, support requirements, and stacking strategies differ significantly due to their unique profiles.
Anavar Dosage and Cycle Length
Standard Dose Range (Men):
-
Beginner: 20–30 mg/day
-
Intermediate: 40–50 mg/day
-
Advanced: 60–80 mg/day (only with supervision)
Standard Dose Range (Women):
-
Beginner: 5–10 mg/day
-
Advanced: 10–20 mg/day (max)
Cycle Length:
-
6–8 weeks (typical)
-
Can be extended to 10 weeks in experienced users with health markers in range
“Oxandrolone demonstrates a favorable safety profile at 20–50 mg/day over 6–8 weeks, with relatively low liver strain in healthy users.”
— Kicman, British Journal of Pharmacology
Common Anavar Stacks:
-
Anavar + Testosterone (HRT dose: 100–200 mg/week)
-
Anavar + Winstrol (dry, contest-prep stack)
-
Anavar + Primobolan (mild, lean gain cycle)
Superdrol Dosage and Cycle Length
Standard Dose Range (Men Only):
-
Beginner: 10 mg/day
-
Intermediate: 20 mg/day
-
Advanced: 30 mg/day (never exceed without clinical supervision)
Cycle Length:
-
3–4 weeks maximum
-
Due to severe hepatotoxicity, longer durations are strongly discouraged
“Methasterone should be cycled cautiously due to rapid hepatic stress. Most users cap usage at 21–28 days with liver enzyme monitoring.”
— Basaria et al., JCEM (2006)
Common Superdrol Stacks:
-
Superdrol + Testosterone (Test E or Cypionate 300–500 mg/week)
-
Superdrol (kickstart) + Nandrolone (long ester bulking base)
-
Superdrol (bridge) + Injectable AAS (very advanced users only)
Key Dosage and Cycle Comparison Table
| Compound | Dose Range (Men) | Women | Cycle Length | Onset of Results | Liver Toxicity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anavar | 20–80 mg/day | 5–20 mg/day | 6–8 weeks | Subtle, 7–10 days | Mild to moderate |
| Superdrol | 10–30 mg/day | Not recommended | 3–4 weeks | Immediate (3–5 days) | Severe |
Administration Tips:
-
Both compounds have short half-lives (~8–10 hours); split doses 2x per day for stable plasma levels
-
Always monitor blood pressure, liver enzymes (ALT/AST), and lipids mid-cycle
-
Avoid stacking two orals simultaneously (e.g., Superdrol + Anavar) due to compounded liver strain
-
Use TUDCA, NAC, or milk thistle during cycle for liver support, especially with Superdrol
Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) After Anavar or Superdrol
Whether you’re running a mild compound like Anavar or a highly suppressive oral like Superdrol, proper Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) is essential to restore natural testosterone production, maintain muscle gains, and minimize hormonal imbalances.
Both compounds suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis (HPTA) to varying degrees. Superdrol tends to completely shut down endogenous testosterone, while Anavar causes mild to moderate suppression—though it still requires a complete PCT to ensure full hormonal recovery.
Goals of PCT
-
Stimulate luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
-
Reactivate Leydig cells for natural testosterone synthesis
-
Prevent estrogen rebound or post-cycle gynecomastia
-
Normalize mood, libido, and energy levels
-
Retain hard-earned muscle mass and strength post-cycle
“Even mild suppression from oral steroids can persist for weeks post-cycle, leading to hypogonadism and muscle wasting if not properly managed.”
— Scally, HPTA Recovery Protocols
Recommended PCT Stack
| PCT Component | Dosage & Duration | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Clomid (Clomiphene Citrate) | 50 mg/day (weeks 1–2), then 25 mg/day (weeks 3–4) | Stimulates LH/FSH to trigger natural testosterone production |
| Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) | 40 mg/day (weeks 1–2), then 20 mg/day (weeks 3–4) | Blocks estrogen receptors and prevents gynecomastia |
| hCG (optional) | 500 IU every other day for 2–3 weeks (start final week of cycle or first week of PCT) | Mimics LH to maintain testicular size and function |
| ZMT by Swolverine | 2 capsules nightly for 4–6 weeks | Supports natural test production, cortisol control, estrogen balance, and sleep quality |
| DHEA by Swolverine | 25–50 mg/day for 4–6 weeks | Restores androgen precursors to support libido, energy, and recovery |
Timing Guidelines
| Compound Used | Begin PCT | Total Duration | PCT Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anavar | 3–5 days after final dose | 4 weeks | Mild to Moderate |
| Superdrol | 3 days after final dose | 4–6 weeks | Aggressive |
| Stack with Test Base | 10–14 days after last Test injection | 4–6 weeks | Aggressive |
Additional Recovery Tips
-
Conduct pre- and post-cycle bloodwork (testosterone, LH, FSH, estradiol, prolactin)
-
Continue high protein intake, sleep optimization, and moderate training volume
-
Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine
-
Maintain cardiovascular health with omega-3s, fiber, and daily activity
“Supplements like ZMT and DHEA serve as powerful adjuncts during PCT to ease the transition from synthetic to natural hormonal function.”
— O'Connor, The Anabolic Doc
Legal Status of Anavar and Superdrol
While both Anavar and Superdrol are widely discussed and used in athletic communities, their legal status varies by country, and they are controlled substances in most regions. Possession, distribution, or use without a valid medical prescription may result in legal consequences.
| Country | Anavar (Oxandrolone) | Superdrol (Methasterone) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Schedule III controlled substance. Prescription-only. | Schedule III controlled substance. No FDA-approved uses. |
| United Kingdom | Class C drug. Illegal to possess without a prescription. | Same classification. Regulated under the Misuse of Drugs Act. |
| Canada | Schedule IV. Prescription-only. | Considered an unscheduled but illegal drug. Banned since 2012. |
| Australia | Schedule 4 prescription-only. | Not approved for human use. Considered illegal to possess/import. |
| Mexico | Available by prescription. Limited regulation. | Often available OTC but illegal to import/export in the U.S. |
Legal Use Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. The use, possession, or distribution of anabolic steroids without a valid prescription is illegal in many countries and may pose serious legal and health risks.
You should always consult with a licensed medical professional and understand your country’s laws before considering the use of any anabolic steroid. Neither Swolverine nor The Swole Kitchen promotes or condones illegal use of performance-enhancing drugs.
“Even with growing information online, the personal and legal consequences of unsupervised steroid use remain high. Responsible guidance is essential.”
— FDA, Anabolic Steroid Control Act
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is safer: Anavar or Superdrol?
Anavar is significantly safer. It has lower hepatotoxicity, milder testosterone suppression, and a more favorable cardiovascular profile compared to Superdrol.
Which is better for strength?
Superdrol delivers faster and more dramatic strength increases, but at the cost of more side effects. Anavar supports strength gains more gradually and sustainably.
Can I take both in the same cycle?
No. Stacking two oral C17α-alkylated steroids like Anavar and Superdrol is strongly discouraged due to compounded liver strain.
Do I need testosterone with these?
Yes. Both suppress natural testosterone—Superdrol significantly, Anavar moderately. A testosterone base prevents symptoms of low-T and supports muscle retention.
Is PCT required after both?
Yes. Clomid, Nolvadex, and supportive supplements like ZMT and DHEA are strongly recommended to restore hormonal function.
Anavar vs Superdrol: Comparison Table
| Category | Anavar (Oxandrolone) | Superdrol (Methasterone) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Oral | Oral |
| Primary Use | Cutting, recomposition | Bulking, strength boost |
| Anabolic Rating | 322–630 | ~400–800 |
| Androgenic Rating | ~24 | ~20 |
| Aromatization | No | No |
| Water Retention | None | Intracellular only |
| Strength Gains | Moderate | Extreme |
| Mass Gains | Clean, lean mass | Rapid, dense gains |
| Liver Toxicity | Mild to moderate | Severe |
| Test Suppression | Mild to moderate | High (rapid shutdown) |
| Cycle Length | 6–8 weeks | 3–4 weeks |
| Female Friendly | Yes (low dose) | No |
| PCT Required | Yes | Absolutely |
Final Thoughts: Choosing Between Anavar and Superdrol
The decision between Anavar and Superdrol ultimately comes down to your training goals, risk tolerance, and overall health priorities.
Choose Anavar if:
-
You want lean muscle, aesthetic definition, and long-term safety
-
You’re in a cutting phase or focused on recomposition
-
You’re seeking a low-risk steroid with fewer side effects
-
You’re a female athlete, a first-time user, or planning an extended oral cycle
Choose Superdrol if:
-
You’re an experienced user looking for short-term mass and strength explosion
-
You’re willing to accept more risk for faster results
-
You have strict cycle support, liver protection, and aggressive PCT protocols in place
-
You’re using it as a kickstart, bridge, or peak strength enhancer for advanced training blocks
“Anavar is about long-game, strategic refinement. Superdrol is about high-risk, high-reward power—used best with precision and discipline.”
— Llewellyn, Anabolics
