Winstrol is a brand of stanozolol, an anabolic steroid that mimics the natural hormone testosterone. Anabolic steroids help build muscle, but can also be used for medical conditions that are characterized by hormonal abnormalities or weakness. Drugs.com states that women who take Winstrol as a medical treatment should be aware of side effects that could occur, such as a deepening of the voice and menstrual irregularities.
Hereditary Angioedema
Hereditary angioedema, abbreviated HAE, is a rare genetic disease. An attack of HAE causes a portion of the body to swell up to many times its normal size, which can become life-threatening in some cases. Areas of the body that are commonly involved are the face, hands and gastrointestinal tract, according to the U.S. Hereditary Angioedema Association. Winstrol is one medication that is used to treat adults during an attack of HAE, but is more effective in men. Dangers of using the drug in an HAE patient is decreased liver function and high cholesterol.
Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a disease in which you don't produce enough blood cells. The Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation explains that this form of anemia is likely an autoimmune disease; your body attacks the bone marrow and restricts production of platelets, white and red blood cells. Winstrol can be one component of supportive care for people with the disease, according to MayoClinic.com.
Breast Cancer
Women whose breast cancer has not responded to other forms of treatment may benefit from Winstrol, according to a 1991 issue of the journal "Cancer." Studies summarized in the journal reported that patients whose advanced cancer has metastasized showed partial improvement or stability after a regimen of the anabolic steroid.
Weight Gain
Anabolic steroids like Winstrol are sometimes used by athletes to bulk up and increase strength. This type of use is not supported by the medical community, and may be considered illegal by certain sports federations and authorities. However, MayoClinic.com explains that in some cases, taking Winstrol to gain weight and muscle is medically warranted, such as if you are suffering from a serious illness during which you lose too much weight. Ask your doctor if Winstrol may be an appropriate medication for you to take in order to regain some strength and body mass.
Turner Syndrome
Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder that is wide in scope and may affect a number of bodily systems, including physical development leading to puberty, overall height, heart and kidney function and cognitive abilities, according to the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Abnormalities on the X chromosome cause people with Turner syndrome to be of short stature and to lose ovarian function during childhood. MayoClinic.com explains that Winstrol may be used to treat and correct symptoms of Turner syndrome. The medication is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this specific use, though the drug may be prescribed off-label for Turner syndrome.
