Anadrol, or oxymetholone, is an anabolic steroid that is used to treat certain forms of anemia. Anadrol is a synthetic hormone similar to testosterone. Oral forms of Anadrol are the only anabolic steroid that has received FDA approval to be used in the treatment of anemia. Most anabolic steroids come in liquid form and must be injected. Anadrol, however, comes in tablet form.
Who Should Not Take Anadrol
Anadrol should not be used by men or women fighting breast cancer, liver disease or severe kidney disease. People with high cholesterol, heart disease, or coronary artery disease may need to have regular testing to ensure Anadrol can be taken safely. Dosages may need to be adjusted throughout the duration of the treatment.
Even though Anadrol is an anabolic steroid, it should not be used in an attempt to enhance athletic performance.
Taking Anadrol
It may be necessary to take Anadrol for at least six months before there is any noticeable change in the production of red blood cells. Regular blood tests will show whether Anadrol is working. Anadrol should only be taken in the amount prescribed by the doctor. After reviewing the results of the blood tests, a doctor may change the dosage according to the amount of red blood cells that are being produced.
If the patient's red blood cell counts rise sufficiently, the use of Anadrol may be discontinued. In some cases, a small maintenance dose may be needed to keep blood levels within a normal range.
Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant should not take Anadrol. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately so that alternative treatment can be looked into. Anadrol can cause birth defects as well as delay bone growth in children. There is a possibility that Anadrol can be passed through breast milk to a nursing baby.
Drug Interactions
Doctors need to be made aware of all medications that a patient is taking before starting treatment with Anadrol. Coumadin and other blood thinners may lose effectiveness when taken with Anadrol.
Diabetics who take insulin or other diabetes medications by mouth should also be aware of possible interactions and contraindications.
Side Effects
Anadrol may cause rapid weight gain and swelling in parts of the body. Stomach pain, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting are known side effects, according to Drugs.com.
Women who take Anadrol may develop male characteristics. Changes in monthly periods, male pattern baldness or hair growth on the chin, chest or face, and a deepened voice are possible side effects of Anadrol.
Signs of a severe allergic reaction to Anadrol should be treated immediately by a physician. Swelling of the face, mouth, lips or tongue combined with hives and difficulty breathing are signs of a severe reaction and should receive emergency medical attention.
