Chemical Formula: C21H32O3 Description Oxymetholone is a synthetic anabolic steroid marketed under the brand name Anapolon by Hoffmann La Roche Limitedand used in the treatment of osteoporosis, anaemia, and as an agent to stimulate muscle growth in malnourished or underdeveloped patients. Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), such as oxymetholone, have been abused by bodybuilders and athletes. The uncontrolled misuse of oxymetholone can lead to a large variety of detrimental effects, the most often reported of which are cardiovascular events. In 2009, no producers of oxymetholone were identified worldwide (SRI 2009), but it was available from 14 suppliers, including 8 U.S. suppliers (ChemSources 2009).
Mechanism of action Oxymethalone is a 17 alpha-alkylated anabolic-androgenic steroid and a synthetic derivative of testosterone, whose anabolic effects are used to treat muscle wasting in HIV patients. The effects of testosterone in humans and other vertebrates occur by way of two main mechanisms: by activation of the androgen receptor (directly or as DHT), and by conversion to estradiol and activation of certain estrogen receptors. Free testosterone (T) is transported into the cytoplasm of target tissue cells, where it can bind to the androgen receptor, or can be reduced to 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the cytoplasmic enzyme 5α-reductase. DHT binds to the same androgen receptor even more strongly than T, so that its androgenic potency is about 2.5 times that of T. The T-receptor or DHT-receptor complex undergoes a structural change that allows it to move into the cell nucleus and bind directly to specific nucleotide sequences of the chromosomal DNA. The areas of binding are called hormone response elements (HREs), and influence transcriptional activity of certain genes, producing the androgen effects. Side effects Diarrhea, excitation, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, swelling of the ankles/feet, unusual or rapid weight gain, trouble breathing, decreased/increased interest in sex, new or worsening acne. Males before puberty – tell your doctor right away if any of these signs of maturation occur while taking this drug: enlargement of the penis, more frequent erections. Adult males – tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: hair loss, trouble urinating, changes in testicle size, impotence, breast tenderness/swelling.