Anavar, also known as Oxandrolone, is a synthetic androgen and anabolic steroid medication that is used to help promote weight gain in various situations, to help offset protein catabolism caused by long-term corticosteroid therapy, to support recovery from severe burns, to treat bone pain associated with osteoporosis, to aid in the development of girls with Turner syndrome, and for other indications. It is taken orally, usually 2 to 4 times daily, and dosage is based on the medical condition and response to treatment.
Anavar belongs to a class of drugs known as anabolic steroids, which are similar to hormones made by the body. It works by increasing the amount of protein made by the body and has been shown to decrease visceral fat and total body fat, increase protein synthesis in skeletal muscle, increase dietary energy and protein intake, and increase nitrogen retention.
While Anavar can be effective in promoting weight gain and muscle growth, it can also have side effects. These include an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad cholesterol") and a decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good cholesterol"), as well as a decrease in the natural pituitary axis necessary to maintain testosterone production in men.
It is important to take Anavar only as directed by a doctor and to properly discard the medication when it is expired or no longer needed. As with any medication, it is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.