From the FDA Drug Label
Oxandrin is indicated as adjunctive therapy to promote weight gain after weight loss following extensive surgery, chronic infections, or severe trauma, and in some patients who without definite pathophysiologic reasons fail to gain or to maintain normal weight
- Oxandrolone is recommended as a medical treatment for increasing weight in certain situations, such as:
- After weight loss following extensive surgery
- After chronic infections
- After severe trauma
- In patients who fail to gain or maintain normal weight without a clear medical reason
- To offset protein catabolism associated with prolonged corticosteroid administration 1
From the Research
For healthy weight gain, a comprehensive approach combining increased caloric intake with resistance training is recommended rather than medication. This approach prioritizes morbidity, mortality, and quality of life as outcomes. The goal is to consume 300-500 calories above daily maintenance needs, focusing on nutrient-dense foods like lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein-rich dairy products 2.
Key Components of Healthy Weight Gain
- Eat 4-6 smaller meals throughout the day rather than three large ones to make increased intake more manageable
- Incorporate strength training 3-4 times weekly to ensure weight gained is primarily muscle rather than fat
- Protein supplements like whey protein (20-25g per serving) can help meet increased protein needs of 1.6-2.0g per kg of body weight daily
- For those struggling with appetite, eating calorie-dense foods and drinking calories through smoothies can be helpful
Importance of Medical Supervision
Medical supervision is important, especially for those with underlying health conditions, as medications for weight gain are generally not prescribed for healthy individuals due to potential side effects and are reserved for specific medical conditions causing unhealthy weight loss 3, 4, 5.
Prioritizing Recent and High-Quality Evidence
The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021, emphasizes the importance of individualized strategies for weight management, considering factors such as patient preferences and the complexity of weight loss and maintenance 2. This approach aligns with the recommendation for a comprehensive approach to healthy weight gain, combining increased caloric intake with resistance training.