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All anabolic steroids are forms of exogenous testosterone. However, due to modifications in chemical structure, different steroids produce different outcomes, in regards to body composition and athletic performance.
Below are the different types, or categories of anabolic steroids, used by bodybuilders:

Bulking steroids
Cutting steroids
Oral steroids
Injectable steroids

Bulking steroids are used to build exceptional amounts of muscle and strength. These compounds are typically used in the off-season (winter period), where bodybuilders eat in a calorie surplus.
Cutting steroids are instead used for enhanced fat burning, increasing muscle definition and retaining hypertrophy (size); when in a calorie deficit. These compounds are often utilized in the final weeks leading up to a competition, or in the summer for maximum aesthetics on the beach.
In this guide, we will list the different types of bulking and cutting steroids used by bodybuilders today, comprehensively detailing their benefits and side effects. We will list in brackets whether they are oral or injectable steroids. 

Bulking Steroids

Anadrol
Dianabol
Testosterone
Trenbolone
Deca Durabolin

1. Anadrol (Oral)
Anadrol (Oxymetholone) is an oral steroid used in bulking cycles, to build large amounts of muscle size (hypertrophy).
Anadrol is also one of the most powerful compounds for enhancing strength, making it very popular among strongmen and powerlifters.
Anadrol will cause hefty weight gain, being approximately 30lbs from a cycle, due it being a ‘wet steroid’; as well as anabolic.
Thus, users can expect a remarkable increase in fat-free mass, but also a significant amount of (temporary) water retention.
This can cause a huge and smooth look to a user’s physique, with very full and potentially puffy-looking muscles.
Any excess fluid gained on Anadrol will be flushed out when a cycle finishes and estrogen levels regulate back to normal.
Anadrol Side Effects
Anadrol may be a potent mass-building steroid; however, it’s also one of the most toxic AAS.
Anadrol will cause notable cardiac hypertrophy (enlargement of the heart), increasing the risk of heart disease. Out of all the anabolic steroids, Anadrol is among the worst from a cardiovascular perspective, due to its negative effects on hepatic lipase in the liver; contributing to drastic fluctuations in cholesterol.
Also, Anadrol is very hepatotoxic, thus high levels of liver strain/damage are to be expected. This can be measured on-cycle by checking AST (aspartate transaminase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) enzymes. When these shoot up, it is evidence of liver stress, thus regular checkups with a doctor should be taken to closely monitor these scores.
Anadrol is a DHT-derived anabolic steroid, thus it often produces androgenic effects in men, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement), acne vulgaris and androgenic alopecia (hair loss on the scalp).
2. Dianabol (Oral)
Dianabol (Methandrostenolone) is another powerful bulking compound and the most coveted oral steroid by bodybuilders.
This is due to its exceptional muscle-building and strength enhancing effects (similar to Anadrol), yet with slightly fewer side effects.
Dianabol is also considered a ‘wet’ steroid, due to it also causing water retention. Fluid retention accumulates differently on Dianabol compared to Anadrol, with serum testosterone being converted into estrogen (via the aromatase enzyme).
Thus, bodybuilders have the choice to use an AI (aromatase inhibitor) to inhibit estrogenic-related side effects on Dianabol, preventing: gynecomastia and water weight. Common AI’s used are Anastrozole and Letrozole, however they are likely to reduce estrogen at the expense of worsening blood pressure levels.
Dianabol Side Effects
Dianabol is also toxic from a cardiovascular and hepatic perspective. Dianabol raises blood pressure like all anabolic steroids, albeit to a more notable degree, due to its vast effect on water retention (making blood volume increasingly viscous).
Dianabol is also liver toxic, being a c-17 alpha-alkylated steroid, thus having to pass through the liver in order to become active.
Dianabol has a low affinity to bind with the 5α-reductase enzyme, thus reducing the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Thus, androgenic effects are mild, helping users to come out of a Dianabol cycle unscathed in relation to oily skin, acne vulgaris and prostate enlargement.
3. Testosterone (Injectable)
Testosterone is usually the first steroid a bodybuilder will take, due to its mild nature and safety (in terms of side effects).
Despite not being the most ‘powerful’ anabolic steroid, it still produces impressive gains in size and strength.
Testosterone is predominantly administered via intramuscular injection; however, it is also available as an oral (known as Testosterone Undecanoate).
Bodybuilders generally opt for the injectable form, with it being considerably cheaper and more potent than oral Testosterone.
Testosterone is less anabolic than Dianabol, yet more androgenic. In practice, testosterone may result in slightly less weight gain than Dianabol — but will build a similar amount of lean muscle tissue. The other main difference is Testosterone has a stronger reaction with the 5α-reductase enzyme, resulting in heightened levels of DHT.
Testosterone Side Effects
Thus, male pattern baldness, acne vulgaris and prostate issues are more likely to develop.
Despite Testosterone’s potent anabolic (muscle building) effects, it can also be taken as a cutting steroid. This is due to Testosterone simultaneously burning fat, due to its androgenicity causing adipose tissue atrophy.
Androgen receptors are present in fat cells and thus when stimulated, lipolysis increases (1).
Testosterone is the most cardiovascular-friendly anabolic steroid on the market, causing only mild increases in cholesterol scores.
A Testosterone-only cycle is often utilized by first-time steroid-users, ranging from dosages between 200-350mg per week — and taken for 8 weeks.
Testosterone Enanthate or Cypionate are preferred injectable esters, due to their longer half-lives, meaning users don’t have to inject as regularly as a fast-acting ester (like Propionate or Suspension).
Testosterone is often stacked with other bulking steroids, such as Trenbolone, Anadrol and Deca Durabolin. When utilized for cutting purposes it is commonly taken with Anavar.
4. Trenbolone (Injectable)
Trenbolone is arguably the most powerful steroid available to bodybuilders, causing rapid changes in body composition that take place within the first week of use.
Trenbolone builds exceptional amounts of muscle tissue, whilst simultaneously lowering body fat.
It enhances fat burning in the same way as testosterone, with its high androgenicity stimulating lipolysis, causing a reduction in fat stores.
Trenbolone’s androgen score of 500 vs testosterone’s 100, demonstrates its raw power in this regard.
Also, Trenbolone is not estrogenic (failing to aromatize), making it a dry compound and thus a very desirable cutting agent.
Trenbolone is a steroid that if someone is using, people can usually tell, due to dramatic changes in body composition, extreme muscle dryness and rapid growth in the deltoid and trapezius muscle regions. These three components combined can make a bodybuilder appear photoshopped in real-life.
Trenbolone Side Effects
Trenbolone is one of the harshest anabolic steroids a bodybuilder can take, having potentially devastating effects on a user’s health.
Trenbolone is not particularly hepatotoxic, due to it being an injectable instead of a C-17 alpha alkylated steroid.
However, AST and ALT liver enzymes still may rise, due to trenbolone passing through the liver upon exit.
Trenbolone will have a drastic effect on blood lipids, causing an increase in heart hypertrophy (size); resulting in a higher chance of atherosclerosis.
Trenbolone’s inability to convert into estrogen does not do trenbolone-users any favours in regards to regulating HDL cholesterol levels (exacerbating blood pressure levels).
Trenbolone’s high androgenicity is partly responsible for its impressive results; however, this will cause acne vulgaris (and cystic acne) in some users. Hair loss is likely to accelerate due to DHT levels spiraling to high levels, causing inflammation and damage to hair follicle health. Difficulty urinating may also become an issue, due to an enlarged prostate gland.
5. Deca Durabolin (Injectable)
Deca Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate) is an effective anabolic bulking agent.
It causes surges in protein synthesis and nitrogen uptake in the muscle cells, causing dramatic increases in muscle size/strength. However, its anabolic nature is not the equivalent of more power compounds, such as Anadrol, Dianabol or Trenbolone.
Thus, Deca Durabolin is often taken as a stack and ran simultaneously with other bulking steroids.
Deca Durabolin causes an extremely full, 3D look, due to high levels of intracellular water retention filling the muscle cells on-cycle.
Deca Durabolin may not be the most potent mass-building anabolic steroid; however, it is among the mildest compounds available; being well-tolerated by many users (especially in terms of cardiovascular health). Deca Durabolin also poses no threat to the liver.
Deca Durabolin Side Effects
Deca Durabolin has minimal adverse effects on vital organs; however, it can be disadvantageous in terms of sexual health, causing erectile dysfunction in many users (when used alone).
This is due to Deca Durabolin reducing libido, via stimulation of the lactating hormone, prolactin.
Thus, some bodybuilders will take Cabergoline alongside Deca Durabolin; which essentially is a supplement to inhibit prolactin production. This enables bodybuilders to cycle Deca and maintain their sexual health.
Cutting Steroids

Winstrol
Anavar

1. Winstrol (Oral & Injectable)
Winstrol (Stanozolol), is available in various forms, although mostly taken as an oral steroid.
Winstrol promotes moderate increases in lean mass, whilst reducing fat-free mass.
Winstrol’s simultaneous anabolic (muscle-building) and fat-burning effects are similar to Trenbolone; albeit less potent.
Winstrol is generally used in cutting cycles to retain muscle, promote fat loss and create a dry/vascular appearance displaying full muscle definition.
Winstrol’s power lies in its low affinity to bind to SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), freeing up more active testosterone that is utilized for triggering lipolysis and increases in skeletal muscle.
The only downside to Winstrol in regards to body composition is it can sometimes deflate the muscles, due to it lowering glycogen levels. This can be attributed to its diuretic properties, caused by a lack of aromatase enzyme; resulting in less intracellular fluid.
Winstrol Side Effects
Winstrol is hepatotoxic, thus users often take a liver support supplement (such as TUDCA) to prevent liver enzymes rising to high levels. Also, cycles should be kept short (6 weeks) and alcohol should be avoided for maximum hepatic protection.
Winstrol will also cause significant cardiovascular strain, due to substantial increases in LDL cholesterol/decreases in HDL. This may cause a flushed appearance to the skin in some users, signifying a spike in blood pressure and thus a higher body temperature.
Winstrol can also be troublesome for the joints, due to its drying out effects, providing less cushion and lubrication. Thus, Winstrol may not be a suitable steroid for aged bodybuilders who regularly lift heavy weights, with it potentially causing aches or severe pain.
Winstrol often causes virilization (masculine) effects to occur in women when taken in moderate dosages; thus it is not considered a female-friendly steroid. However, if very small dosages are consumed (5mg per day), side effects may be kept at bay.
2. Anavar (Oral)
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is a very popular anabolic steroid among men and women. Despite its high market price, it is often coveted due to its versatility.
It can be taken by beginners as a mild steroid that increases muscle-building, without causing notable side effects.
Anavar can also be utilized by experienced steroid-users when cutting to maximize fat loss, whilst retaining muscle tissue.
Women can also take Anavar safely without developing virilization symptoms. Thus, it has many benefits that are advantageous for both sexes.
Anavar only produces moderate increases in lean mass, hence how it’s used for cutting. Its ability to burn subcutaneous fat is surpassed by few steroids, due to its profound effect on T3 (triiodothyronine) levels.
Anavar is also effective in reducing visceral fat, with it improving insulin sensitivity. This can also suppress appetite leading to further fat loss; by increasing the likelihood of users eating in a calorie deficit.
Anavar has diuretic properties; however, unlike Winstrol, muscles will remain looking full; as only extracellular water is flushed out (not intracellular).
Glycogen uptake within the muscles increases on Anavar, thus causing huge pumps in the gym and exceptional muscle thickness in a relaxed state.
Anavar Side Effects
Despite being a C-17 alpha alkylated steroid, Anavar does not have a drastic effect on liver enzymes. This is most likely due to it being a mild compound and the kidneys processing part of the compound (in conjunction with the liver).
Thus, liver health is not likely to deteriorate unless taking excessive cycles or mega dosages; however, ALT/AST enzymes should be monitored regularly as a precaution.
Anavar will not cause gynecomastia, as it does not aromatize (inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into estrogen).
Anavar will have a negative effect on cholesterol, causing a mild to moderate increase in blood pressure. However, this adverse effect is considered to be significantly less troublesome compared to different anabolic steroids.
Summary
There are several other anabolic steroids not listed in this article, such as:

Superdrol
Halotestin
Primobolan
Proviron
Equipoise

However, the profiles mentioned are the most commonly used AAS among bodybuilders today to enhance their physiques.

An array of questions often surrounds the topic of anabolic steroids, with people either thinking about taking them or curious about their effects.
Asking questions can be a great method of learning; however, there remains a scarce amount of information online, due to the taboo nature of steroids; causing much misinformation and bro-science.
Sadly this may lead to vulnerable people causing themselves harm, due to a lack of expert content being published.
Thus, in this guide, we will answer the most common questions regarding anabolic steroids (strictly for harm reduction purposes), so our readers can understand how they truly affect over 3 million people in America today.

1. Are Steroids Bad For You?
Yes, anabolic steroids are bad for you in the sense that cardiovascular side effects are certain, at least to some degree, no matter what compound you are taking.
This is due to all steroids being forms of exogenous testosterone and thus having a negative effect on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
Other side effects (unrelated to the heart), are also likely, including:

Liver damage
Acne vulgaris
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement)
Hypogonadism (low testosterone)
Androgenic alopecia (hair loss)
Water retention
Gynecomastia

There are steroids that can cause fewer effects, are well tolerated and even approved by the FDA (such as Anavar, Deca Durabolin and Testosterone).
There are also harsh steroids that have a detrimental effect on various organs and can even lead to death.
Therefore, a better question could be “are steroids worth the risk?”. In which case this will depend on a person’s individual goals and what they are willing to risk.
To someone with a history of heart disease in their family, who is thinking of taking toxic steroids such as Dianabol or Anadrol on a regular basis; then this is most likely a bad idea.
However, to someone else who understands the risks and is happy to put their health (or life) at risk in order to win a bodybuilding trophy — steroids may be worth it to them (at least in the short term).
2. Are Steroids Illegal?
Yes, anabolic steroids are illegal to use for cosmetic purposes in almost every country in the world; with a couple of exceptions, such as Mexico and Thailand.
In America, they are classed as Schedule III controlled substances and in the UK are Class C drugs.
However, steroids are legal to use when a person has been prescribed them for medicinal purposes.
For example, a man suffering from hypogonadism can be prescribed testosterone cypionate for TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), to bring his levels back into a normal range.
Anabolic steroids used to be legal for recreational purposes, with bodybuilders from the golden era simply making an appointment with their doctor (if they wanted to take Dianabol) to build more muscle.
However, little was known regarding the side effects in these initial stages and thus were not banned by the FDA.
3. Did Arnold Schwarzenegger Take Steroids?
Yes, Arnold Schwarzenegger has admitted to taking steroids, mentioning that 60 years ago bodybuilders were naïve to the long-term effects of these drugs.
Bodybuilders in Arnold’s era have hinted at the certain compounds used, being: Dianabol, Primobolan and Deca Durabolin.
Arnold wrote the following in his book, Total Recall:
“I read everything I could find about the training methods of the East Germans and the Soviets. Increasingly, there were rumors that they were using performance-enhancing drugs to get superior results from their weight lifters, shot-putters and swimmers. As soon as I found out that steroids were the drugs in question, I went to the doctor to try them myself”.
Arnold also mentioned there weren’t any rules surrounding steroids, thus they weren’t banned or considered taboo like in sports today.
Arnold later recalls the conversation with his doctor who prescribed him steroids:
“Can you let me try it?” I asked, and he said sure. He prescribed an injection every two weeks and pills to take in between. He told me, “Take these for three months and stop the day the competition is over”.
From this conversation, we have a very good idea about the specific steroids given to Arnold during his first cycle.
In the context of this passage in Arnold’s book, his main objective was to build significantly more muscle and to look huge on stage, blowing away the crowd and judges.
Therefore, we know that these were mass-building agents, with one being an injectable and another an oral.
We also know the injectable was administered every 2 weeks, with at least one compound producing water retention (as Arnold mentions in the next passage that his gains were ‘mostly water weight’).
Dianabol (methandrostenolone) perfectly describes the oral pill that Arnold was prescribed.
The injectable steroid was thought to be Primobolan, a popular injectable in the ’60s and ’70s. This is practically confirmed in Frank Zane’s training diary: ‘Mind, Body, Spirit’ (see below):

Diana bowl = Dianabol
Prima bowl = Primobolan

We also know the dosages used from this cryptic poem, with ‘100 miles’ representing 100mg’s of Primobolan per week. And 15 ‘milly Gramola’ representing 15mg of Dianabol per day.
4. How Much Do Steroids Cost?
The following prices were obtained from an (anonymous) trusted source within the bodybuilding community.
These are UK prices; however, we have added the US dollar equivalent in brackets.
Cost of injectable steroids

Testosterone Enanthate 250mg/ml (25 amps) – £120 / $167
Testosterone Propionate 100mg/ml 10ml vial (25 amps) – £45 / $63

Thus, a testosterone enanthate cycle, dosed at 300mg for 8 weeks would cost roughly £50 / $69.
Cost of oral steroids

Anavar 100 x 20mg tablets – £165 / $229
Dianabol 1000 x 5mg – £190 / $264
Winstrol 100 x 25mg tablets – £65 / $90

Cost of PCT drugs

Clomid 50 (50mg) tablets – £35 / $49
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) 50 (20mg) tablets – £35 / $49

Cost of Fat Loss Drugs

Clenbuterol 400 (20mcg) tablets – £70 / $97
Ephedrine 100 (30mg) tablets – £25 / $35

Readers should be cautious of sellers offering prices at a fraction of these, as the product is likely to be diluted or a placebo.
5. How Much Muscle Will I Gain on Steroids?
The amount of muscle a person will gain on steroids will depend on the compounds used, their genetics, training and nutrition.
Anavar is moderately anabolic, thus may only result in 15lbs of muscle gain.
However, Trenbolone can produce 30lbs of lean muscle tissue from a single cycle.
Bulking agents are the type of steroids that will produce the most muscle and weight gain, as opposed to cutting agents.
Here is a list of bulking steroids:

Anadrol
Dianabol
Testosterone
Deca Durabolin
Trenbolone
Superdrol

Generally, a man can gain 50-70lbs from using anabolic steroids, after administering several cycles.
6. Are The Effects of Steroids Permanent?
There is clinical evidence to suggest that steroids do have a permanent effect on myonuclei inside the muscle cells (1).
In one study, a group of untrained mice was administered steroids (testosterone), causing exceptional muscle growth.
Then when the steroid cycle ended, they returned back to their original size.
However, when these mice later performed weight training (without any steroids), they grew 30% more compared to the group that had never used anabolics.
This indicates that muscle gains will be lost from taking steroids if a person becomes sedentary.
However, steroid gains may be kept later on (naturally), if users continue lifting weights.
Arnold Schwarzenegger may be a perfect example of this permanent effect, displaying exceptional muscularity when training in old age.

There is also evidence to suggest that steroids’ adverse effects on visceral fat (VF) are permanent.
One study found that men who had previously taken steroids had higher levels of VF, compared to non-steroid-users (2). This is fat that surrounds the organs and cannot be seen by the naked eye, but high levels can push the abdomen out, creating a ‘protruding’ appearance. This is also known as ‘steroid gut’ in the bodybuilding community and is initially caused by impaired insulin sensitivity.
Thus, even if someone stops using steroids, they will maintain a higher visceral body fat percentage later in life.
7. Will I Get Acne?
Acne vulgaris is a common androgenic side effect. Some compounds are worse at aggravating acne in users, with prone individuals usually deciding to avoid such compounds. They also may opt for a compound with a reduced 5α-reductase conversion. 
Treatment with anti-bacterial creams containing Benzoyl Peroxide may aid in reducing acne, via the removal of dead skin cells. If acne persists then a visit to your doctor is recommended; with the employment of an antibiotic course being successful in some cases.
Some may opt to source Accutane, a drug that has potent effects in reducing activity in the sebaceous glands. Such glands are responsible for producing excess amounts of an oily substance, known as sebum. Accutane thus helps in treating the root cause of acne (excess sebum production blocking the pores).
Accutane (also known as Roaccutane by manufacturers ‘Roche’) is a very potent drug; however, and its use should not be taken lightly. It has been linked with various side effects, including mental health issues and suicide. Many users however typically notice mild effects such as drying of the nose, skin, ears, eyes or joints.
Accutane is often not easy to obtain on the black market, and its high market price reflects this.
8. Will Steroids Affect my Sex Drive?
Yes, the use of strong androgens will likely produce a state of increased libido in many users.
However, weak androgen compounds (such as Deca Durabolin) can have a reverse effect.
In this case, stacking Deca Durabolin with an androgenic compound (such as Testosterone, Anadrol or Trenbolone) can help to mitigate any decreases in sexual interest.
Note: After a steroid cycle ceases, sex drive may decrease due to decreased endogenous testosterone. These symptoms may persist for several weeks or months, depending on the compounds used and the PCT (post cycle therapy) protocol.
9. Do I Need to Run a PCT (Post Cycle Therapy)?
Steroid users do not necessarily need to run a PCT, especially if mild compounds are utilized, such as Primobolan and Anavar. Such steroids only have a moderate lowering effect on endogenous testosterone levels.
However, in many cases, a PCT will help users recover physiologically and psychologically after a cycle.
No bodybuilder wants to experience low testosterone for several months after a cycle, thus an effective PCT can significantly reduce this waiting period.
From a physical perspective, a PCT will ensure the body stays in an anabolic (muscle-building) state, cementing results made from a cycle. Also, it will improve sexual health, which can often deteriorate post-cycle, causing less sexual desire and weaker erections.
Men can often report feeling fatigued and having low energy post-cycle, which is a common side effect of low testosterone.
Psychologically, a PCT can help a man feel more confident and experience greater well-being, due to testosterone increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that makes a person feel good; however, when low it can contribute to depression or anxiety.
10. Can Anabolic Steroids Make You Depressed?
Yes, anabolic steroids are capable of producing depression in certain individuals, due to their lowering of endogenous testosterone. As explained in the above section, testosterone increases dopamine, an important neurotransmitter for mental health. After a cycle ends, a man’s testosterone levels become shut down and thus mental health can suffer (at least temporarily).
11. Are Steroids Addictive?
Anabolic steroids are addictive in many individuals, due to their remarkable effects on body composition and mental well-being.
Research suggests that roughly 1 million Americans have experienced a dependence for anabolic-androgenic steroids (3).
Such dependency may cause users to regret taking steroids later in life, with Sergio Oliva (one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time) reportedly stating that steroids were a “monkey on his back” (4).
12. Where Do I Inject Steroids?
The gluteus maximus, otherwise known as the back-side, is a common choice for injections, due it being a large and deep muscle.
This is a favorable injection site for beginner steroid users, due to it requiring less precision.
It is important to inject intra-muscularly, i.e. into the muscle.
Bodybuilders should avoid injecting into the vein, as this can result in serious implications, such as paralysis or death.

13. Do Steroids Make Your Penis Smaller?
No, contrary to bodybuilding mythology, anabolic steroids do not cause penis shrinkage.
Equally, anabolic steroids do not cause any notable increase in penis size.
However, steroids do cause testicular atrophy (testicular shrinkage), due to them shutting down endogenous testosterone levels. This effect is often temporary and when testosterone levels return back to normal (post-cycle), the testes are restored to their previous size.
14. How to Prevent Gynecomastia (Gyno)?
Gynecomastia is caused by excess estrogen levels. This female sex hormone rises to exceptionally high levels on steroids, due to high levels of aromatization (converting testosterone into estrogen).
In a bid to prevent gynecomastia, bodybuilders often take an AI (aromatase inhibitor) or a SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulator).
AI’s work by blocking the conversion of testosterone into estrogen, whereas SERMs do not stop this conversion, but instead directly inhibit estrogen’s effects in the mammary glands.
SERMs are often preferred, due to AI’s potentially worsening hypertension; with high estrogen levels having a positive impact on HDL cholesterol.
15. Which Steroids Don’t Cause Gyno?
Any steroid that doesn’t provoke surges in female hormones, including estrogen or progesterone, is very unlikely to cause gynecomastia.
Some of the safer compounds for gyno are:

Anavar (Oxandrolone)
Winstrol (Stanozolol)
Turinabol (Chlorodehydromethyltestosterone)
Superdrol (Methasterone)

Anadrol, Dianabol and Testosterone are particularly estrogenic steroids, thus are likely to cause breast tissue expansion in sensitive individuals.
16. Can Steroids Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
Although steroids are likely to improve erection quality, yes it is possible to experience erectile dysfunction with some compounds. Deca Durabolin is notorious for causing ED when used by itself, due to its reduced androgenicity.
Weak androgenic steroids like Deca Durabolin reduce nitric oxide production, which is responsible for optimal blood flow to the penis. However, users may stack testosterone with Deca Durabolin, for some additional androgenicity, keeping optimal circulation to the penis.
17. Are Oral Steroids Worse Than Injectable Steroids?
Many oral steroids are hepatotoxic, thus making them worse than injectable steroids from a hepatic health perspective.
Also, oral steroids can present more issues in relation to cardiovascular health, due to their negative impact on hepatic lipase when being processed by the liver. This often causes greater fluctuations in cholesterol, increasing the risk of cardiac hypertrophy and heart disease.
However, there are a few oral steroids that do not pose serious risks to the liver and heart and are well-tolerated among users. Anavar, Primobolan (Methenolone Acetate) and Testosterone Undecanoate are examples of such compounds.
Equally, some injectable steroids can have detrimental effects on the heart, such as Trenbolone, thus the statement of oral steroids are worse than injectable steroids isn’t strictly true and only partially accurate.
18. Can Anabolic Steroids Be Used Safely?
Yes, physicians throughout the world agree that certain anabolic steroids can be used in a safe manner when administered in a controlled medical environment in therapeutic dosages.
This is why there are several FDA-approved steroids utilized in medicine, such as Testosterone, Deca Durabolin and Anavar.
However, other steroids used in bodybuilding have high levels of toxicity and are not FDA-approved.
Bodybuilders obtaining anabolic steroids for cosmetic purposes and utilizing them without the supervision of a doctor is likely to be an unsafe practice.
Furthermore, when a patient is prescribed an FDA-approved steroid, it is guaranteed to be the real compound, being synthesized by a certified pharmaceutical company.
However, bodybuilders buying steroids through the black market carries its own risks and dangers, due to illegalities and lack of regulations.
19. How Fast Do Steroids Work?
Some anabolic steroids work fast, with Testosterone Undecanoate peaking serum testosterone levels within 5 hours of the first dose.
Fast-acting steroids are made up of short esters and do not need to be cycled for long durations in order to see significant results.
However, other steroids, such as Deca Durabolin, are made up of longer esters and are slower to have an effect.
Testosterone Enanthate and Cypionate are two more compounds that have longer half-lives and thus need to be cycled for at least 8 weeks, enabling enough time for them to kick in and users to see maximum results.
20. Do Steroids Make You Angry?
Anabolic steroids can make users increasingly angry and cause ‘roid rage’ in certain individuals.
This is due to significantly higher testosterone levels, the male hormone that is responsible for added levels of aggression.
However, steroids affect people in different ways and some users do not experience increased outbursts of anger, but instead more regular cases of irritation and grumpiness.
21. Do Steroids Show Up on a Drugs Test?
Anabolic steroids are banned substances by sporting federations such as WADA, thus they will almost certainly show up on a drugs test unless measures are put in place to mask their presence.
Army and police drug tests are generally designed to detect marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and opiates (not steroid metabolites). This is due to anabolic steroid tests being costly.
However, steroid tests may be specifically ordered if someone in the army or police force was to regularly talk about their steroid use. However, if a person was discreet this is unlikely to be a problem, with some police officers showing obvious signs of steroid use.

22. Do Steroids Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, anabolic steroids can cause hair loss, due to significantly higher testosterone levels converting to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), via the 5α-reductase enzyme.
DHT is known to damage hair follicles, due to its inflammatory effects on the scalp, causing miniaturization or loss of hair.
Androgenic steroids will be the worst for accelerating hair loss, due to them being DHT-derivatives or having high levels of the 5α-reductase enzyme present.
A few examples of such compounds are:

Anadrol
Testosterone
Trenbolone

However, androgenic alopecia (hair loss) is often genetic and thus some users may experience hair loss that they were already predisposed to, due to their DNA.
Whereas, other users may not experience any notable loss of hair, due to strong genetics in regards to follicle health and reduced natural levels of 5 AR.
Weak androgenic steroids can also be utilized to reduce/prevent hair loss during a cycle, such as: Dianabol, Deca Durabolin or Primobolan. These are compounds regularly used throughout the golden era, where many classic bodybuilders had thick hair.
Note: It is also common for users to notice any hair thinning or loss to reverse post-cycle, as DHT levels drop back into a normal range. However, such a reversal may not take place if ample time isn’t taken off in between AAS cycles, to reduce inflammation on the scalp.
23. Can Steroids Make You Infertile?
Yes, there is evidence to suggest anabolic steroids have a direct damaging effect on the testicles (5), decreasing sperm count and quality.
This is an evolutionary irony, known as the Mossman-Pacey paradox, where men take steroids to increase their sexual attractiveness; but end up lowering their fertility.
Anabolic steroids cause the pituitary gland to cease producing LH and FSH, due to excessive testosterone levels. These two endogenous hormones are crucial in the production and health of sperm, thus a deficiency may result in men becoming a sterile
Professor Alan Pacey says:
“I would say more anabolic steroid users are likely to become sterile than you would think – 90 per cent probably.”

Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.

Sustanon 250, produced by Organon, is a popular anabolic that contains a distinctive blend of four testosterone esters; delivering a unique, staggered release of the hormone post-injection.
In this guide, we take a closer look at the pros and cons of this renowned testosterone mix, plus Sustanon 250 cycle information and stacks used by bodybuilders today.
Firstly, when you inject Sustanon 250 (often abbreviated to “Sust”), the anabolic hormone you are administering is testosterone.
Sustanon 250 is a blend of different testosterone esters; however, it is still essentially testosterone; like cypionate or enanthate.
Therefore, in terms of muscle gains, it does not matter what form of testosterone you use, as it is the same compound and thus will produce an identical end result.
Thus, as with any testosterone product, Sustanon 250 is an excellent steroid for increasing muscle mass, strength and power.
The main difference between Sustanon 250 and other testosterone products, is that it has 4 esters, instead of 1.

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What is an “Ester” and Why Does it Matter?

An ester is a carbon chain attached to the testosterone molecule that slows the release of the hormone in the body.
At one end of the spectrum is pure testosterone with no esters attached, such as testosterone suspension.
Once injected, the hormone is quickly released in the body and causes a fairly rapid spike in serum testosterone, which remains elevated for only a short period of time.
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the likes of testosterone enanthate and cypionate which contain long ester chains, resulting in a slower release of testosterone after injection; and subsequently, an elevated level of the hormone remains for a couple of weeks.
In between these two are various other esters. The propionate ester is a popular choice for users who want a fairly quick elevation of the steroid, that lasts only several days.
For bodybuilders and athletes, an important requirement is the need to keep a relatively stable concentration of testosterone in the bloodstream. Doing so produces the desired anabolic benefits, whilst avoiding the undesirable side effects that stem from volatile hormone levels (which excessively peak and dip).
With this in mind, shorter esters require regular injections (daily or every other day), whereas longer esters, such as enanthate, typically only require injections once or twice a week.
This is where sustanon 250 is unique, with it containing quick releasing propionate and phenylpropionate esters, and slower releasing decanoate and isocaproate esters – resulting in a blend that effectively produces a quick, yet enduring release of testosterone.
How Often Do You Need to Inject Sustanon 250?
Like Testosterone enanthate, Sustanon 250 can be injected once or twice per week.
It is always advisable to opt for the original Organon product (pharmaceutical grade) and avoid underground versions that try to mimic the Sustanon blend.
Sustanon 250 is usually fairly easy and inexpensive to source.
Each ampule contains 250mg of testosterone, comprised as follows:

100mg testosterone decanoate
60mg testosterone isocaproate
60mg testosterone phenylpropionate
30mg of testosterone propionate.

What Results Can I Expect?
Being the primary, naturally occurring male hormone; testosterone is the number one compound in the world of anabolic-androgenic steroids.
It is generally well-tolerated and widely considered the best choice for someone’s first cycle, as well as providing the perfect base compound for experienced bodybuilders when stacking several hormones together.
While results vary from person to person and depend on various other variables, users can expect testosterone to cause significant increases in muscle size and strength.
Those who are fairly new to anabolics and want to gain muscle mass, typically report Sustanon 250 cycles producing 20+lbs of weight gain over the course of a cycle; with roughly two-thirds of such weight being kept (once a cycle ceases and water retention normalizes).
Enanthate and cypionate are the most popular testosterone esters, as they do not need to be injected frequently. However, the downside is, they take a while to kick in and produce results. However, with Sustanon 250 users can experience fast results in the early stages of a cycle, due to the presence of propionate and phenylpropionate esters (yet inject at the same frequency as enanthate/cypionate)
For those who have already cycled other testosterone esters, there should be in theory little difference between swapping those esters for Sustanon 250, in terms of dosage guidelines and stacking options.
Sensitive individuals that are prone to side effects on testosterone are likely to experience the same outcome with sustanon 250.
Sustanon 250 Cycles and Stacks
Testosterone is a versatile hormone, suitable for both bulking and cutting cycles alike; due to its simultaneous anabolic and fat-burning effects.
However, Sustanon 250 is typically used in bulking cycles where maximum muscle gain is the goal. Great results can be achieved from running Sustanon on its own, yet many choose to stack it with other steroids that are also suited for adding mass, such as Anadrol.
Sustanon 250 is effective on its own during cutting cycles, promoting muscle retention and decreasing fat mass.
Many bodybuilders are afraid of losing muscle tissue when cutting, due to the catabolic environment that occurs with a calorie deficit; however, testosterone can alleviate such worries of diminished muscle hypertrophy.
A moderate dose of Sustanon 250 (350mg/week) will successfully preserve lean tissue during a cut, especially when stacked with other compounds that aid fat loss and muscle hardening (such as Anavar or Trenbolone).
Additionally, when using Sustanon for a cutting cycle, the use of an anti-aromatase in low doses can prove particularly useful for preventing water retention and gynecomastia.
For informational purposes, here are some common Sustanon 250 cycles and stacks, utilized by bodybuilders today:
Sustanon 250 Beginner Cycle

Note: Large gains in hypertrophy (size) and strength can be experienced on lower dosages among beginners, due to the muscles being particularly receptive to exogenous testosterone. Thus, beginners should avoid utilizing high dosages, allowing more potential for growth in future cycles, where higher dosages may be incorporated.
A PCT should begin 4 weeks following the final dosage, with decanoate’s half-life being 15 days and thus taking considerably longer to exit the body. Such PCT timing can also be applied to the steroid cycles below.
Sustanon 250 Intermediate Cycle

This Sustanon 250 cycle will continue adding mass in users who have already taken a cautious dosed testosterone cycle previously.
However, running higher dosages will also produce more pronounced side effects, which we will detail in the side effects section of this guide (further down).
Sustanon 250 and Anavar Cycle (Cutting)
Anavar is an oral steroid, predominantly used for cutting to enhance fat burning and muscle gains.
Thus, users will burn more subcutaneous fat with this cycle and experience additional lean mass; compared to running Sustanon 250 by itself.
Anavar does not aromatize, thus providing a dry and ripped appearance in users who are already relatively low in body fat.
Anavar is a mild steroid, thus cholesterol, blood pressure and liver enzymes will only rise moderately.

Note: Users wanting to avoid water retention or bloat on this cutting cycle can take anastrozole. 0.5mg taken every other day will successfully prevent oestrogen levels from rising.

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Sustanon 250 and Deca Durabolin Cycle
This is a powerful bulking cycle, yet one of the mildest stacks in terms of side effects.
This cycle may be utilized after running several testosterone cycles; promoting further muscle growth.

Deca Durabolin has long esters and thus is a slow-acting steroid, hence the lengthy 10-week cycle.
Deca Durabolin is typically injected once per week.
Both testosterone and Deca Durabolin remain FDA-approved steroids in the world of medicine today, showcasing their safety when used under medical supervision and in therapeutic dosages.
Sustanon 250 and Trenbolone Cycle
Sustanon 250 and trenbolone are a potent combination, used for either bulking or cutting purposes.
This duo will cause exceptional muscle gains, whilst simultaneously stimulating rapid fat loss; due to high levels of androgens (causing a direct fat burning effect in adipose tissue).
These two compounds are perhaps the best steroids for increasing lean mass when run simultaneously.

However, this cycle is only suitable for advanced steroid users due to trenbolone’s toxic nature, in regards to cardiovascular health.
If this cycle is utilized for cutting purposes, an anti-oestrogen such as anastrozole may be used to prevent water retention, however doing so may exacerbate high blood pressure; due to it inhibiting the aromatase enzyme and thus worsening cholesterol ratios.
Sustanon 250 / Anadrol / Trenbolone Cycle
Note: This cycle is only typically performed by experienced steroid users.
This is by far the most potent bulking cycle a bodybuilder can take, causing unrivalled increases in mass.
Even users who have taken steroids for decades are likely to make impressive gains from this cycle, due to the sheer power of this trio.

This cycle should only be taken on rare occasions, with it having devastating effects on the heart and liver.
Liver strain will be significant (albeit most likely tolerable), due to Anadrol being the only hepatotoxic compound present.
However, cholesterol levels change drastically, almost certainly causing some level of hypertension. The risk of developing arteriosclerosis and heart disease is high with this cycle, thus if users have a history of such in their family; it may be wise to avoid such an extreme cycle.
Testosterone suppression will almost certainly shut down, requiring the most aggressive PCT possible; ideally a trio of Clomid, Nolvadex and hCG.
Although the above cycles are the most popular protocols, testosterone can also be successfully stacked with other anabolic steroids, such as:

Sustanon 250 Results – Before & After

This before and after picture demonstrates the typical results in users after their first testosterone/Sustanon 250 cycle.
Testosterone’s fat-burning effects are often underappreciated, with them being arguably as powerful as testosterone’s anabolic properties.
Thus, weight gain may not be the best method for tracking results on testosterone; with before and after pictures being more telling.
Users may lose some weight post-cycle, signifying a decrease in estrogen and thus a loss in extracellular fluid.
However, lean muscle tissue will be retained after a cycle finishes, should users continue lifting weights regularly.
Strength gains of 50+lbs are common (on main compound lifts) when taking testosterone for the first time.
Sustanon 250 Side Effects
As with other testosterone products, Sustanon 250 can produce several undesirable side effects.
Firstly, androgenic-related side effects, including oily skin, acne, accelerated baldness and increased aggressiveness are fairly common.
As with all steroids, tolerance differs from person to person. It is only possible to gauge such sensitivity once a cycle is embarked upon.
That said, if users are particularly prone to acne breakouts or currently suffer from male pattern baldness, testosterone and other androgenic steroids can be expected to worsen such conditions.
Further unwanted side effects can be experienced due to heightened oestrogen levels, that build up during a Sustanon 250 cycle, due to aromatization (the conversion of testosterone into oestrogen).
Heightened oestrogen levels can cause increased water retention and gynecomastia – the formation of breast tissue.
The initial stages of gynecomastia typically involve itchy or sore nipples, developing into a notable mass of tissue behind the nipple. If left unchecked, such tissue can continue to expand and is only rectifiable with surgery.
Thankfully, most users find testosterone tolerable and do not suffer from gynecomastia. For those that do, such oestrogen-related side effects can usually be controlled with either an anti-oestrogen or AI (aromatase inhibitor).
Anti-oestrogen products (such as Nolvadex and Clomid) actively compete with oestrogen at a receptor level, reducing their effects.
Both Nolvadex and Clomid are inexpensive and easy to source – it is always advisable to have an ample supply on hand during and after a cycle. They are also the primary drugs used during post cycle therapy (PCT), to kickstart endogenous testosterone production.
It is also possible to reduce oestrogen levels by taking an anti-aromatase drug, such as Letrozole or Anastrozole. These drugs reduce the conversion of testosterone into oestrogen and are typically taken during a cycle by those prone to oestrogenic side effects.
Testosterone will also suppress endogenous testosterone levels, causing potential testicular atrophy (shrinkage). Thus, at the end of any cycle always ensure to run a proper post cycle therapy aiding the recovery of natural hormone production.
Sustanon 250 does not cause any hepatic (liver) implications due to it being an injectable steroid.
Sustanon 250, and other testosterone esters, will raise LDL cholesterol levels; however, this effect is acute compared to other AAS.
In fact, testosterone appears to be one of the least destructive steroids from a cardiovascular standpoint; however, precautions should still be taken; including fish oil supplementation (4g/day), regular cardio and frequent checkups with your doctor to monitor blood lipids.