Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) is important after an Anavar cycle. Anavar, like other Androgenic Anabolic Steroids (AASs), has androgenic and anabolic effects. Thus, PCT is often considered crucial. Here, the significance of a PCT cycle for Anavar will be explored in depth.
Anavar or Oxandrolone is a mild AAS that is used for lean muscle growth during cutting phases. Despite it being mild, the anabolic and androgenic effects of this compound can still affect users. Will this really require PCT for mitigation? This blog will find that out.
Understanding Anavar and Its Effects on the Body
Anavar is one of the most popular AASs. It has been considered a choice for bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts for higher muscle gain and reducing fat tissue at the same time.
An Anavar cycle is considered by athletes for lean and dry gains that help in the preservation of a defined and aesthetic physique. It is for this reason that it is a popular supplement during cutting cycles.
Another reason for its popularity is its mild nature. It has a very lenient side effect profile. This is characterised by its low androgenic property. At 10:1 anabolic to androgenic, it promotes muscle growth without the masculinising side effects.
The challenges that Anavar users may face are:
- Mild testosterone suppression
- Reducing HDL cholesterol and elevating LDL cholesterol
- Mild hepatotoxicity
These side effects will be delved into more deeply in the next few sections:
Does Anavar Suppress Natural Testosterone?
While three types of side effects of Anavar usage have been discussed, here, Anavar’s hormone suppression effect will be focused on. Why? Because this suppression level is what makes PCT very urgent.
Anavar does suppress natural testosterone production. However, Anavar’s suppression is mild, and it is highly unlikely to cause a complete testosterone shutdown in your body. Anavar only suppresses natural testosterone production when taken in higher doses and over extended periods.
To understand the appropriate and safe amount of dosage to manage, here’s a list for both male and female athletes:
| User Type | Men | Women | Cycle Timeline |
| Beginners | 20 mg/day | 5 mg/day | 4-6 weeks |
| Intermediate | 20-30 mg/day | 5-10 mg/day | 6-8 weeks |
| Advanced | 50-80 mg/day | 10-15 mg/day | 8 weeks max. |
Table: Appropriate Anavar Dosage
Risks of Skipping PCT After Anavar
So, does Anavar require post-cycle therapy? The natural testosterone suppression property of Anavar makes PCT an urgent requirement.
Without PCT, some men taking this AAS can experience long-term:
- Testicular shrinkage
- Reduced libido
- Increased mood swings
Meanwhile, women might experience:
- Menstrual irregularities
- Suppression of natural oestrogen production
- The potential for temporary infertility
And these effects can have a long-term impact on health if PCT is continuously ignored.
When PCT May Be Necessary
While Anavar is a DHT-derived AAS, implying that it does not get easily converted into oestrogen. However, it can still lead to the suppression of your body’s natural testosterone production levels. Even in the case of 15-30 mg/day dosages, the testosterone suppression effect can harm both men and women.
Without Anavar post-cycle treatment, it can take up to 12 weeks for your body to reset its testosterone production. And within this period, the suppression might lead you to lose your gains.
Moreover, in case you are on a long Anavar cycle, especially if your cycle lasts for more than 8 weeks, you would need to start a PCT.
Also, if you are stacking Anavar with a stronger AAS compound, such as Dianabol, you should definitely consider PCT.
Finally, if your natural testosterone levels are low, you should consider PCT as essential after Anavar cycles.
Common PCT Protocols After Anavar
The primary PCT protocol for Anavar states that the ideal time to start your PCT will be 2-3 days after ending your cycle. This is because Anavar has a short half-life. Here is a list of PCTs for Anavar:
Clomid-Based PCT:
For Week 1-2: 50 mg/day
For Week 3-4: 25 mg/day
Nolvadex-Based PCT:
For Week 1-2: 40 mg/day
For Week 3-4: 20 mg/day
Add-on for Recovery Optimisation:
DHEA – 100 mg/day (It helps support recovery and improve libido)
However, for women, at lower doses (5-10 mg) for 4-6 weeks, PCT is generally not recommended. But that depends on how your body reacted to the Anavar.
Also, if you are considering PCT after an Anavar cycle, it is essential that you first speak to a physician. The physician is knowledgeable and equipped to give you the correct information on the accurate dosage that will be suited for your body. This is especially true if you are a woman opting for higher dosages.
Alternatives to Traditional PCT
In case you are not comfortable with traditional PCT after an Anavar Cycle, and if your physician does not recommend any of the PCT options for you, there are alternative choices that you can take. These choices may include:
- Natural Testosterone Boosters: Natural boosters include taking supplements or changing food habits. Some of the notable testosterone booster examples include Vitamin D, Zinc, Ginger, and Fenugreek.
- Bloodwork Monitoring: Bloodwork monitoring can be critical to understanding the testosterone levels in your system. This can help your physician identify some guided treatments for you. These guided treatments will be suitable as they are tailored to your needs.
- Lifestyle Interventions: Lifestyle changes can be extremely effective in maintaining hormonal balance. An important part of this practice can be changes in your training regimen or intensity. Even changes in your usual activities can help your body regain its natural testosterone production levels.
Expert Opinions & Medical Guidance
In the case of any PCT cycle that you need to undertake, it is essential that you follow guidance and expert advice from medical professionals. Thus, you can:
- Take healthy bits of advice from endocrinologists and physicians who are experts in sports medicine.
- Consider evidence-based studies and understand the suppression profile of Anavar.
- Constructive and objective evaluation of your condition can be an additional support when seeking post-cycle therapy for Anavar.
To Summarise
Anavar might be a mild AAS, but it has some negative implications to your body due to its ability to suppress natural testosterone production. Therefore, PCT is crucial. To consider PCT, follow your doctor’s advice and either take Clomid/Nolvadex or go for a more natural remedy. Either way, forgetting PCT is not an option.
Looking for PCT Advice for your Anavar Cycle?
PCT is a must for your Anavar cycle. So, visit a physician and the right vendors for your AAS needs. They will provide you with expert advice regarding what is most suited to your body. So, make an appropriate PCT plan, and obtain your dream body!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Take Anavar if I Have a Lifestyle Where I Don’t Get Much Sleep?
No. Sleep and rest are very important for both your Anavar cycle and for PCT cycle. Without sufficient sleep, the side effects may be compounded.
2. If I Keep Working Out for the 12-week Period After the Cycle, Would I Still Require the PCT?
That will not be advisable. Your post-cycle issues can lead to severe health defects in the next 12 weeks. And the muscle loss during that time will require you to restart your regimen.
3. Do I Absolutely Need a Nutritional Plan While Taking Clomid After an Anavar Cycle?
The nutritional plan will be helpful for you in supporting the medication. This is important due to the potential side effects of the medication. And that can be managed with the right diet.
4. Is Extreme Caloric Deficiency Required to Support an Anavar Cycle?
While caloric deficiency can help in your cutting cycle, taking it to extreme measures will lead to muscle loss and other potential challenges.
