What are the optimal Oxandrolone (Anavar) dosages that minimize testosterone suppression?

From the Guidelines

Optimal Oxandrolone (Anavar) dosages that minimize testosterone suppression are typically in the range of 2.5-20 mg/day.

Key Considerations

• The dosage of oxandrolone should be adjusted to the lowest possible amount consistent with freedom from attacks, as higher doses are associated with increased side effects 1.
• The required dose of oxandrolone may range from 2.5 mg taken alternate days to up to 20 mg daily, depending on individual patient requirements 1.
• Treatment with low-to-moderate doses of anabolic androgens, such as oxandrolone, provides effective and relatively safe long-term HAE prophylaxis for many patients 1.
• It is critical to adjust the dosage to the lowest dose that provides effective control of HAE, as the beneficial effects of 17a-alkylated androgens accrue slowly 1.

Dosage Recommendations

• For adults, a typical dosage range is 2.5-20 mg/day, with some patients requiring higher or lower doses depending on their individual needs 1.
• For pediatric patients, the dosage is typically 0.1 mg/kg/day, with a range of 2.5-7.5 mg/day 1.

Important Notes

• Oxandrolone is a 17a-alkylated androgen, which can increase intrinsic production of C1-INH and provide effective prophylaxis for HAE attacks 1.
• The side-effect profile of oxandrolone, especially at higher doses, is a limiting factor for use as long-term prophylaxis, and includes weight gain, acne, virilization, and hepatic abnormalities 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

The daily adult dosage is 2. 5 mg to 20 mg given in 2 to 4 divided doses. The desired response may be achieved with as little as 2.5 mg or as much as 20 mg daily. The optimal Oxandrolone (Anavar) dosages that minimize testosterone suppression are not explicitly stated in the drug label.

• The label provides a dosage range of 2.5 mg to 20 mg per day for adults, but does not specify which dosage within this range is optimal for minimizing testosterone suppression.
• It is recommended to use the lowest effective dose, which may be as little as 2.5 mg daily, to minimize potential side effects, including testosterone suppression 2.

From the Research

Optimal Oxandrolone Dosages

The optimal Oxandrolone (Anavar) dosages that minimize testosterone suppression are not clearly established, but several studies provide insight into the effects of different dosages on testosterone levels and other hormonal parameters.

• A study published in 1996 3 found that Oxandrolone at doses of 5 mg/day and 15 mg/day had a positive impact on weight and well-being in HIV-seropositive patients, but did not report on testosterone suppression.
• A study published in 2006 4 found that Oxandrolone at doses of 20,40, and 80 mg/day suppressed testosterone levels, with the highest dose having the greatest suppressive effect.
• A case report published in 2008 5 found that long-term use of Oxandrolone at unknown doses was associated with low testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels, and erectile dysfunction.
• A study published in 1997 6 found that low-dose Oxandrolone (2.5 mg/day) transiently suppressed the pituitary-testicular axis and altered growth hormone (GH) pulsatility in boys with constitutional delay of growth and puberty.

Dosage-Dependent Effects

The effects of Oxandrolone on testosterone levels and other hormonal parameters appear to be dose-dependent, with higher doses having greater suppressive effects on testosterone.

• The 2006 study 4 found that the 40-mg/day dose of Oxandrolone had a greater suppressive effect on testosterone levels than the 20-mg/day dose.
• The 1997 study 6 found that low-dose Oxandrolone (2.5 mg/day) had a transient suppressive effect on the pituitary-testicular axis, suggesting that lower doses may have less pronounced effects on testosterone levels.

Clinical Considerations

The optimal dosage of Oxandrolone that minimizes testosterone suppression will depend on the individual patient's needs and clinical context.

• The 2009 study 7 suggests that Oxandrolone 10 mg orally twice/day may be effective in promoting lean body mass accretion and restoring body weight in adult patients with severe thermal injury, but does not report on testosterone suppression.
• The 1996 study 3 suggests that Oxandrolone at doses of 5 mg/day and 15 mg/day may be effective in promoting weight gain and improving well-being in HIV-seropositive patients, but does not report on testosterone suppression.