Superdrol (Methasterone) is often described as one of the most powerful oral steroids available — delivering rapid muscle growth, strength gains, and extreme physique hardening in as little as 2 to 3 weeks. Originally marketed as a “prohormone,” it later gained notoriety in underground bodybuilding circles as a full-fledged anabolic steroid with a uniquely dry, grainy aesthetic.
As more women step into the world of competitive bodybuilding, CrossFit, and physique transformation, interest in performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) has expanded — and so has curiosity about extreme compounds like Superdrol. Despite its appeal for fast results, this steroid carries an exceptionally high risk profile, especially for female users.
In this article, we’ll explore how Superdrol works, what results (if any) women can expect, the very real side effects it presents, and what safer alternatives exist. If you’re considering this compound, read carefully — because the long-term consequences may far outweigh the short-term gains.
What Is Superdrol?
Superdrol is the trade name for Methasterone, an oral anabolic steroid that first entered the supplement market in the early 2000s. It was originally marketed as a “prohormone,” but chemically, it is a fully active anabolic steroid that does not require conversion in the body to exert its effects.
→ Chemical Classification
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Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) derivative
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17α-alkylated for oral bioavailability
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Non-aromatizing → no conversion to estrogen
Superdrol has a very high anabolic rating (estimated between 400–800) and a low androgenic rating (~20), which makes it appealing to users seeking dry, lean gains without bloating. However, for women, even “low androgenic” compounds derived from DHT can cause significant side effects due to how strongly they bind to androgen receptors.
In addition, its 17α-alkylated structure makes Superdrol hepatotoxic → meaning it places a high level of stress on the liver and can elevate liver enzyme levels rapidly during use.
For a complete breakdown of this compound’s pharmacology, history, and applications, visit our Superdrol guide.
Crystal clear now — thank you for your persistence. Here's the fully corrected version of the “How Superdrol Works” section, with:
How Superdrol Works
Superdrol (Methasterone) is a DHT-derived oral anabolic steroid that belongs to the 17α-alkylated class of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). It was originally sold as a “prohormone” in the early 2000s, but chemically, it’s a fully active anabolic steroid — potent, fast-acting, and highly toxic to the liver.
→ Androgen Receptor Binding → Rapid Muscle Growth
Superdrol binds aggressively to androgen receptors in skeletal muscle tissue, triggering increases in protein synthesis, nitrogen retention, and muscle fiber repair — which drives rapid, lean muscle growth.
“Superdrol exhibits a high binding affinity to the androgen receptor, stimulating skeletal muscle anabolism with reduced androgenic activity compared to testosterone.”
— Antonio, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
This mechanism is shared with other dry compounds like Masteron and Primobolan, but Superdrol is significantly more potent on a milligram-to-milligram basis.
→ Non-Aromatizing → Dry Gains, No Bloat
Unlike Dianabol, Superdrol does not aromatize into estrogen. This means users experience:
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No water retention
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No estrogen-mediated fat gain
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No gynecomastia risk
This “dry” appearance is why some physique athletes seek it for contest prep or cutting phases.
“Methasterone is a 17α-alkylated derivative of DHT and does not undergo aromatization; this makes it attractive to users seeking hard, lean muscle without water retention.”
— Kuhn, Drug Testing and Analysis
→ Suppresses SHBG → Boosts Free Androgens
Superdrol also reduces sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which increases the amount of free testosterone and DHT available to bind to receptors — amplifying the muscle-building signal.
“AAS compounds, particularly orally active ones, are known to reduce SHBG and increase free testosterone concentrations.”
— Hartgens & Kuipers, Sports Medicine
This mechanism contributes to the dry, hard, and vascular look often sought in short cycles — though the same feature dramatically increases virilization risk in women.
→ 17α-Alkylated → Highly Hepatotoxic
Because of its 17α-alkylated structure, Superdrol is able to bypass digestion and enter the bloodstream intact — but this also makes it extremely hepatotoxic.
Users often report sharp elevations in liver enzymes (AST, ALT), and in some cases, develop cholestasis (bile flow blockage) and jaundice.
“Methasterone has demonstrated a particularly hepatotoxic profile, causing cholestasis, bile stasis, and liver enzyme elevations even at low doses.”
— Krishna, Hepatology
Other orals like Anavar and Winstrol also have liver toxicity concerns — but Superdrol is often considered one of the most liver-toxic steroids ever synthesized.
Is Superdrol Safe for Women?
The short answer: no — Superdrol is not considered safe for female users under any standard of risk-benefit analysis. While some advanced female physique athletes have experimented with it in extremely low doses, the overwhelming risk of virilization, endocrine disruption, and organ stress far outweighs any potential reward.
→ Androgenic Side Effects in Women
Although Superdrol has a relatively low androgenic rating on paper (~20), this is misleading. As a DHT-derived compound, it exerts potent androgenic effects even at low doses, especially in women, who are far more sensitive to androgens than men.
Documented virilization risks include:
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Voice deepening (often irreversible)
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Clitoral enlargement
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Facial and body hair growth
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Severe acne and oily skin
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Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
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Increased aggression or mood changes
These symptoms can emerge quickly — sometimes in as little as 1–2 weeks, even at doses as low as 2.5–5 mg/day.
“Anabolic steroids derived from dihydrotestosterone, such as Methasterone, have a strong potential to induce virilization symptoms in women, even when used in minimal doses.”
— Hartgens & Kuipers, Sports Medicine
→ Long-Term Endocrine & Cardiovascular Risks
Superdrol also suppresses natural hormone production — including estrogen, progesterone, and LH/FSH — creating hormonal imbalances that may take months to resolve post-cycle. In women, this can cause:
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Persistent menstrual irregularities
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Infertility risks
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Loss of bone mineral density
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Mood instability and chronic fatigue
Cardiovascular markers are also impacted:
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↓ HDL cholesterol
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↑ LDL cholesterol
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↑ Blood pressure and arterial stiffness
“C17-alkylated oral steroids exhibit a profound negative effect on the lipid profile, elevating cardiovascular risk significantly with continued use.”
— Glazer, Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine
For a deeper look at these outcomes and how they manifest uniquely in female users, see our full guide on Steroid Side Effects in Women.
Results Women Might Expect
Despite the serious risks, some advanced female competitors have experimented with low-dose Superdrol in short cycles. The motivation? Rapid physique enhancement, especially before competitions or photoshoots. But it’s important to understand what the actual benefits may look like — and whether they justify the trade-offs.
→ Lean Muscle Gain
Superdrol is extremely anabolic, promoting fast and dense muscle growth in a short time. In women, even very small doses (e.g., 2.5–5 mg/day) can result in:
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Noticeable increases in lean muscle mass
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Fullness and density in shoulders, glutes, and quads
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Faster post-workout recovery
However, these results often come at the cost of androgenic side effects (see previous section), especially with extended use.
“Methasterone supports skeletal muscle hypertrophy via androgen receptor activation and nitrogen retention, even at low doses.”
— Antonio, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
→ Strength & Power Output
Users often report dramatic increases in strength — including compound lifts — within 7 to 10 days. This makes Superdrol a popular “finisher” compound for final-cycle prep.
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Faster bar speed and explosiveness
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Increased total volume capacity
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More visible muscle contractions (“dry pump” effect)
“AAS users frequently report strength increases unrelated to muscle mass due to enhanced neuromuscular efficiency.”
— Hartgens & Kuipers, Sports Medicine
→ Vascularity and Dryness
Because Superdrol doesn’t convert to estrogen, it doesn’t cause water retention. The result is a “dry,” grainy, and vascular appearance — particularly in the shoulders, delts, arms, and lower abdominals.
That said, the same dryness can lead to joint discomfort and dehydration-related cramping in some women, especially in leaner states.
“DHT-derived steroids like Masteron and Superdrol produce a hardened aesthetic, especially when combined with a calorie deficit.”
— Kuhn, Drug Testing and Analysis
→ How It Compares to Other Orals
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Anavar → Much safer for long-term female use; slower muscle gains but fewer side effects
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Winstrol → More androgenic than Anavar, still liver toxic but less harsh than Superdrol
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Primobolan → Injectable, non-liver toxic, best for recomp with minimal water retention
Safer Alternatives to Superdrol for Women
Given the significant risks associated with Superdrol — especially virilization and liver toxicity — many women turn to safer compounds or non-steroidal performance enhancers to achieve similar results without the long-term damage.
These alternatives offer lean muscle gain, fat loss, enhanced recovery, and aesthetic improvement, without the irreversible side effects.
Anavar (Oxandrolone)
Anavar remains the most widely used and best-tolerated steroid for women. It offers:
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Steady lean muscle growth
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Improved recovery and strength
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Low risk of virilization at appropriate doses
Because it's also DHT-derived, Anavar provides a dry, hard appearance — similar to Superdrol but with significantly lower toxicity. For full guidance, see Anavar for Women.
Primobolan (Methenolone)
Primobolan is another DHT-based steroid with a low androgenic index. As an injectable, it bypasses liver toxicity concerns and supports:
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Recomp (build muscle while burning fat)
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Minimal water retention
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Stable energy and performance over time
Primobolan is often used by intermediate female athletes looking for a slower, more sustainable physique enhancement.
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
DHEA for Women is a natural precursor hormone that can improve energy, libido, and lean body mass. It may support hormone balance without the harsh side effects of synthetic AAS, especially in perimenopausal and active women.
You can find pharmaceutical-grade DHEA here.
Peptide & Non-Steroidal Options
If your goal is recovery, fat loss, or recomposition without hormonal disruption, peptides and metabolic modulators may be your best bet:
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MK-677 (Ibutamoren): Increases growth hormone and IGF-1 for lean mass, sleep, and fat loss
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BPC-157: Speeds up muscle, ligament, and gut healing
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Cardarine (GW501516): Enhances fat oxidation, endurance, and mitochondrial efficiency without hormone suppression
Each of these has a much safer side effect profile for women and can be used alone or in combination based on training phase and physique goals.
What to Use Instead – Recommended Beginner Stack
For women seeking body recomposition, lean muscle, or fat loss without the harsh effects of Superdrol, there are safer and more sustainable stack options available. These combinations support strength, recovery, and performance without suppressing natural hormones or risking virilization.
Below is a beginner-friendly stack built around peptides, non-steroidal enhancers, and supportive supplementation.
Beginner Recomp Stack (Non-Steroidal)
Goal: Build lean muscle, burn fat, support joint and gut health, and improve recovery
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MK-677 (Ibutamoren) – 10–15 mg daily
→ Increases growth hormone and IGF-1; promotes lean mass and deep sleep -
BPC-157 – 250–500 mcg daily
→ Enhances soft tissue healing, reduces inflammation, supports gut health -
Cardarine (GW501516) – 10–20 mg daily (pre-workout)
→ Boosts fat oxidation and endurance with no hormonal suppression -
DHEA – 25–50 mg daily
→ Helps maintain hormonal balance, especially during caloric deficit or intense training
Lifestyle Support Recommendations
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Protein intake: 0.8–1.0g per pound of lean body mass
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Sleep: 7–9 hours per night
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Resistance training: 3–5x per week, focused on progressive overload
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Hydration & micronutrients: Use a high-quality multivitamin and electrolyte support as needed
This stack is ideal for women who want results without sacrificing long-term health, hormone balance, or femininity. It can be run for 8–12 weeks and adjusted based on progress, recovery, and overall goals.
For personalized guidance, macro-based nutrition, and custom supplementation plans, check out 1:1 coaching at The Swole Kitchen.
PCT for Women Who Try Superdrol
Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is a critical part of recovery after steroid use — but for women, it’s not as straightforward as it is for men. While men often rely on SERMs like Clomid or Nolvadex to restart testosterone production, women don’t need to stimulate endogenous testosterone — they need to re-stabilize estrogen, progesterone, and LH/FSH balance after hormonal suppression.
Do Women Need PCT After Superdrol?
In short: yes, but not in the same way men do. Superdrol can:
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Suppress natural estrogen and progesterone levels
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Disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis
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Delay or completely shut down menstrual cycles
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Trigger adrenal stress and cortisol imbalance
The result? Hormonal chaos, mood swings, fatigue, and difficulty regulating metabolism — often lasting weeks to months without proper support.
“Cessation of exogenous androgens in females leads to prolonged suppression of ovarian function, often without a defined recovery period unless addressed directly.”
— Yesalis & Bahrke, Clinics in Sports Medicine
PCT Strategies for Women
Women typically do not use SERMs like Clomid or Nolvadex, unless guided by a medical professional. Instead, focus should be on natural hormone support, liver recovery, and menstrual cycle regulation.
Recommended support after a Superdrol cycle:
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DHEA – Supports estrogen/progesterone balance post-cycle
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Maca root, DIM, or Vitex (chasteberry) – Herbal tools to support estrogen detoxification and ovarian signaling
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Liver support – Milk thistle, NAC, or TUDCA to help clear 17α-alkylated toxicity
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Electrolyte and adrenal support – B vitamins, magnesium, and adaptogens like ashwagandha
For advanced support or recovery after suppression, see our recommended [PCT Stacks](PCT Stacks) and adapt accordingly for female users.
Legal Status and Disclaimer
Superdrol’s Legal Classification
Superdrol (Methasterone) is classified as an anabolic steroid and is considered a Schedule III controlled substance under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act. It is illegal to buy, possess, or use without a prescription in the United States and many other countries. The compound is not FDA-approved for any medical use and has no legal distribution channels for human consumption.
Additionally, Superdrol is banned by all major athletic organizations, including:
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The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)
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NCAA and USADA
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Olympic governing bodies and most federations in CrossFit, powerlifting, and physique sports
“Methasterone is listed as a prohibited substance due to its classification as an anabolic agent with significant performance-enhancing potential.”
— WADA, 2025 Prohibited List
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. It does not promote, encourage, or condone the use of illegal or banned substances.
Swolverine and The Swole Kitchen do not sell Superdrol or any illegal AAS products. Any use of anabolic steroids should be discussed with a licensed medical professional. Female users, in particular, should be aware that side effects may be irreversible, and recovery can be difficult even under clinical supervision.
Please consult a qualified health provider before making any decisions involving hormone use, performance-enhancing drugs, or post-cycle therapy protocols.
Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?
For women, the risks of using Superdrol far outweigh the rewards.
While it's true that Superdrol delivers rapid gains in lean muscle mass, strength, and physical conditioning, those benefits come with a steep cost: irreversible virilization, severe liver toxicity, hormonal disruption, and potential long-term health consequences. Unlike more forgiving compounds such as Anavar or Primobolan, Superdrol leaves almost no margin for error.
Even short cycles at low doses can cause lasting changes in vocal pitch, menstrual regularity, and mood. Many of these effects cannot be reversed with time or post-cycle therapy. And for a compound that’s banned in most sports and illegal in many countries, the downside becomes even more clear.
If your goal is to enhance your physique, strength, and recovery without sacrificing your health, identity, or long-term hormonal balance, there are better paths forward. MK-677, BPC-157, Cardarine, and DHEA all offer evidence-based benefits for women looking to improve body composition, performance, and recovery — without shutting down their endocrine system or risking irreversible side effects.
If you’re serious about taking your training and physique to the next level in a way that aligns with your long-term health, consider working with a coach. At The Swole Kitchen, we help women implement sustainable strategies with macro-based nutrition, performance programming, and science-backed supplement stacks.
Make your decisions with intention. Superdrol may promise fast results — but for most women, the damage isn’t worth the muscle.
