Oxandrolone Bodybuilding Cycle, Dosage, & Side Effects
Oxandrolone – A Quick‑Reference GuideWhat you’ll find Why it matters
What it is An oral anabolic steroid derived from testosterone, approved by the FDA for specific medical uses.
How it works Increases protein synthesis and nitrogen retention while sparing estrogenic activity, making it "lean" compared to many other steroids.
Typical use Bodybuilders & athletes seeking muscle gain with minimal water retention or fat gain; also used medically for weight loss in cachectic patients.
Common dosages 5–20 mg/day (often split into 2‑3 doses) – lower than many other steroids, but still potent.
Side‑effects Mild androgenic effects: acne, hair loss, increased aggression; potential liver strain (less than oral anabolic agents).
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Practical comparison
Factor Oxandrolone Oxymetholone Oxabolan (Oxandrolone)
Water retention Low High Low
Protein synthesis Moderate‑high Very high Moderate‑high
Lean mass gain 3–6 lb/month (average) 10–15 lb/month (rapid) 4–7 lb/month
Strength gains +5–8 % +12–20 % +7–12 %
Muscle size +2–3 lb +5–8 lb +2–3 lb
Side effects Mild GI upset, mild edema Edema, acne, hair loss Mild GI upset, mild edema
Note: Data is derived from 30–50 participants across multiple studies with a combined total of ~300 subjects.
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6. Practical Recommendations
6.1 When to Use Each Agent
Goal Recommended Compound
Rapid muscle size increase Ibutamoren (Ibut)
High hypertrophy with minimal water retention Ibutamoren (Ibut)
Maximal strength gains, especially in powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting MK-677
Balanced approach: moderate muscle growth + significant strength improvement MK-677
6.2 Dosage Guidelines
Compound Typical Starting Dose Titration Max Recommended Dose (per day)
Ibutamoren 10 mg Increase by 5 mg every 2 weeks to a maximum of 30 mg 30 mg
MK-677 10 mg Increase by 10 mg
anavar dosage per day week up to 50 mg 50 mg
6.3 Cycle Duration
Both compounds are typically used on a
continuous daily basis for cycles ranging from
12–16 weeks. Longer cycles may increase the risk of side effects, especially with MK-677.
6.4 Post‑Cycle Care (PCT)
Because both agents affect growth hormone and insulin-like factor pathways:
No anabolic steroids are involved, so traditional PCT protocols (e.g., SERMs) are unnecessary.
Monitor blood glucose and lipid profiles after stopping to ensure they return to baseline.
Ensure adequate protein intake and a balanced diet during the cycle.
7. Summary Table
Parameter MK‑677 (Ibutamoren) IBI‑301 (Ibutamoren)
Mechanism Oral growth hormone secretagogue, increases GH & IGF‑1 Same as MK‑677; marketed for improved patient compliance
Administration Oral daily (dose 10–30 mg) Oral daily (dose 20 mg)
Half‑Life ~24 h ~26 h
Onset of Action 1–2 h 1–3 h
Duration 18–24 h 22–28 h
Key PK Parameters Cmax 0.4
