Proviron, or mesterolone, is a classic oral anabolic steroid that may not shine on its own, but its value shines when incorporated into steroid cycles. Interestingly, it’s not an FDA-approved prescription in the United States and is generally unavailable in American medicine. However, in Europe, it serves medical purposes to address androgen deficiencies and male fertility issues.
Old School Bodybuilding
Back in the 70s and 80s, bodybuilders didn’t have access to SERMs or AIs. In those pre-SERM/AI times, bodybuilders relied on Proviron to combat the increase in estrogen due to the aromatization process caused by certain anabolic steroids. While not as potent as today’s AIs, Proviron proved beneficial and was the go-to option for many steroid users. Veteran bodybuilders still favor it today, unaware of the existence of AIs.
Proviron and Estrogen Control
Proviron should not replace AIs for estrogen control, but it does have its benefits. It attaches to estrogen receptors and aromatase enzymes without activating estrogen, effectively reducing estrogenic activity. Additionally, Proviron occupies aromatase molecules, preventing testosterone from converting into estrogen, especially when used with aromatizing compounds like testosterone or dianabol.
Boosting Libido
Proviron enhances libido, thanks to its role as a dihydrotestosterone (DHT) derivative. This makes it a perfect match for compounds like deca durabolin, balancing the potential loss of sex drive associated with these steroids.
Minimal Liver Impact
Proviron is often considered a liver-toxic oral steroid, but it’s not 17alpha-alkylated, sparing the liver from significant stress. It’s structurally modified with a methyl group at carbon 1, allowing it to pass through the liver without substantial harm.
SHBG
Proviron effectively binds to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), increasing free testosterone levels compared to total testosterone. This higher free testosterone ratio enhances the effectiveness of the steroids used in your cycle.
Not for Solo Use
Using Proviron as a standalone compound is ineffective. It’s best utilized as an addition to your cycle, where it can enhance the results of other compounds.
Post Cycle Therapy
In the bodybuilding community, opinions on the use of Proviron during post-cycle therapy (PCT) vary. In the past, when SERMs were unavailable, Proviron played a role in PCT. Today, with various supplements and ancillary drugs accessible, it’s not an essential component of PCT. While Proviron isn’t as suppressive as other compounds, using it during PCT or as a bridge may not be the most productive choice.
Dosage Recommendations
Proviron dosage typically ranges from 25 to 50 milligrams per day, with an active life of 12 hours. It’s crucial to be aware that Proviron can be detectable for up to two months, making it a substance with a relatively long detection window. For a typical 12-week cycle, you can safely incorporate Proviron due to its non-liver toxic nature.
In conclusion, Proviron, the ‘old school’ legend of oral anabolic steroids, continues to hold a special place in the world of bodybuilding. While not intended as a stand-alone anabolic powerhouse, its ability to complement other compounds in a cycle is where it truly shines.
Proviron’s historical significance is notable, dating back to an era before the advent of modern SERMs and AIs. Bodybuilders depended on this compound to manage the rise in estrogen during a steroid cycle, given its anti-estrogen properties. It helped many users avoid estrogenic side effects, such as water retention, elevated blood pressure, and gynecomastia, making it a staple in the arsenal of those who relied on luck to navigate the pitfalls of aromatizing anabolic steroids.
But Proviron’s benefits extend beyond estrogen control. It’s prized for its libido-enhancing properties, thanks to its DHT derivative status, making it a fantastic addition to cycles with compounds like deca durabolin.
Proviron’s liver-friendly nature is a reassuring feature. Unlike many other oral steroids, it doesn’t place undue stress on the liver, allowing for long-term use without concerns about potential harm.
The impact on sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is another valuable aspect of Proviron. By binding to SHBG, it boosts the ratio of free testosterone to total testosterone, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of the steroids already in use.
In contrast, using Proviron on its own is not recommended, as it’s primarily meant to amplify the results of other compounds in your cycle. Moreover, its role in post-cycle therapy (PCT) has become less significant due to the availability of newer supplements and ancillary drugs.
Dosage guidelines for Proviron suggest a range of 25-50 milligrams per day, with an active life of 12 hours. It’s worth noting that Proviron can remain detectable in the body for up to two months, making it important for athletes who are subject to drug testing. [addtoany]
