(Mesterolone)

Proviron represents one of the oldest anabolic androgenic steroids on the market. A product of the giant pharmaceutical company Schering, it would first appear in 1934. Officially known as Mesterolone, it has appeared under numerous brand names over the years, but the Proviron name has continually remained dominant. It has also remained one of the most misunderstood anabolic steroids among steroid users.

In many ways, Proviron is a very unique anabolic steroid. It shares some strong similarities to Masteron (Drostanolone) and to a degree Anavar (Oxandrolone) and Winstrol (Stanozolol) but in totality it is its own unique animal. In a performance capacity, Proviron is not used to promote large buildups in mass, although it can serve an important purpose during such a phase of training. We will, however, find Proviron to be far more common in cutting cycles, but once again its purpose will be somewhat unique.

As a therapeutic agent, Proviron is one of the most commonly used anabolic steroids in modern medicine. However, the Mesterolone hormone has never been approved by the U.S. FDA. It will primarily be found in European medicine, especially in Western Europe. The primary purpose of use is treating androgen deficiencies, age being the most common culprit of the condition. It is, however, also used in pre-pubescent males as well. The hormone is also used as a fertility aid in men and this alone makes it a very unique anabolic steroid as most anabolic steroids tend to have the opposite effect.

Proviron Functions & Traits:

Mesterolone is a dihydrotestosterone (DHT) derived anabolic androgenic steroid. Specifically it is a structurally altered DHT hormone possessing the addition of a methyl group at the carbon one position. This allows the hormone to survive oral ingestion by protecting it from hepatic breakdown. This is one of the only oral anabolic steroids that is not C17-alpha alkylated (C17-aa) but instead carries the added methyl group. Oral Primobolan is the other most well-known oral steroid that carries this same methyl group. While the added methyl group does in fact protect it from breakdown, the total bioavailability of Proviron will be far less than most all C17-aa oral steroids. For this reason it has fallen out of popularity among many performance enhancing athletes but as we will see perhaps unjustifiably so.

Proviron carries an androgenic rating of 30-40 and an anabolic rating of 100-150. All ratings derive from and are measured against testosterone, which carries a rating of 100 in both categories. Despite having an anabolic rating that is potentially greater than testosterone, Proviron will display very low anabolic traits. This is very similar to Halotestin (Fluoxymesterone), which carries a massive anabolic rating but very little translatable anabolic activity. In the case of Proviron, while structurally very anabolic, the Mesterolone hormone converts and reduces to Diol metabolites, in turn reducing anabolic activity. However, Proviron’s androgenic rating is a different story. In fact, its translatable androgenic activity appears to commonly be higher than its structural rating would imply.

On a functional basis, Proviron carries four primary traits that largely define its mode of action. First and foremost the Mesterolone hormone has a strong binding affinity to Sex-Hormone-Binding-Globulin (SHBG). In fact, it appears to be one of the strongest anabolic steroids in this regard. By binding to SHBG, a hormone partially responsible for reducing free testosterone, binding SHBG will enhance the amount of circulating free testosterone. More importantly for the anabolic steroid user, it will make a larger percentage of the anabolic steroids used available in a free rather than bound state. A simple way to look at it is the anabolic steroids you’re taking become more powerful and potent.

Proviron also has the ability to interact with the aromatase enzyme, the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone to estrogen. By binding to the aromatase enzyme, Proviron can actually inhibit aromatase activity, thereby offering protection against estrogenic side effects. It will not carry an anti-estrogenic effect near the level of power of an Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) but it will be notable. Depending on the nature of the cycle the individual undertakes it is quite possible for Proviron to take care of all your anti-estrogen needs.

The Mesterolone hormone will also carry a strong binding affinity to the androgen receptor. Once again this will promote the functionality of other steroids to a degree but more importantly promote enhanced metabolic activity through direct lipolysis. Then we’re left with the final issue that surrounds Proviron as a fertility medication. This is an anabolic steroid that does not suppress gonadotropins similarly to other anabolic steroids. With minimal suppression and its extremely strong androgenicity, this will enhance sperm production as androgens are necessary to spermatogenesis stimulation. This not only enhances the amount of sperm produced but greatly and equally important enhances the quality of the sperm. Before we go any further understand Proviron does have the ability to suppress gonadotropins, but there’s a line that has to be crossed for notable suppression to interfere with sperm production. This will make sense once we dive into the side effects section.

Effects of Proviron:

During a bulking phase Proviron is not going to be a foundational steroid, and for most men it will not have a place in an off-season cycle. There are exceptions and we’ll go over those here. Adding in Proviron could possibly help the individual breakthrough a sticking point during his cycle. At some point and time in all cycles the progress begins to wane, and in some cases come to a complete halt. By the way Proviron enhances the total free state of the other steroids being used in a stack, it could possibly help the individual breakthrough this sticking point. During the off-season, this is where most will use the largest amount of testosterone. Many will use large amounts during cutting cycles too, especially competitive bodybuilders but lower testosterone plans are more common during the cutting phase. However, there are those for numerous reasons who choose to run off-season cycles with limited testosterone doses. In such plans, including Proviron could give them a slight needed androgen boost. While it may not always be necessary it could prove to be beneficial.

Without question the best time to use Proviron will be during the cutting phase. This steroid has the ability to provide a bit of a hardening effect similar to Masteron, but more importantly the hardening effects of other steroids will be enhanced. Then we consider its strong binding to the androgen receptor, which will in fact enable the individual to burn body fat at a far more efficient rate. From here we must consider the anti-estrogen effect of Proviron. This will ensure the individual is less prone to water retention and as discussed, depending on the total cycle, it could negate the need for a traditional anti-estrogen. Then we’re once again left with the enhancement of circulating free testosterone. This can be a tremendous benefit when testosterone levels are often much lower during this phase of anabolic steroid use. In fact, with a low dosed testosterone cycle that includes other anabolic steroids, we can confidently say the total results will be greater for the individual who includes Proviron compared to the one who does not. In the end, the primary base benefit is the increased androgenicity of other steroids being used in order to promote a much harder and far more defined physique. It should be noted while Proviron can most certainly provide these traits they will not be noticeable unless you are lean.

Side Effects of Proviron:

There are possible side effects of Proviron use; however, this steroid carries one of the highest safety ratings among all anabolic steroids. Most men will be able to use this steroid without any negative issue, but possible side effects do exist despite a low probability. When it comes to female use, in a therapeutic or performance capacity this steroid cannot be recommended. The rate of virilization is much to high and should be avoided by females who wish to protect their femininity. In order to help you understand the possible side effects of Proviron, we have broken them down into their separate categories along with everything you need to know.

[1] Estrogenic:

The Mesterolone hormone is not estrogenic. It does not aromatize and it carries no progestin nature. As a result, the side effects of Proviron will not include any related effects such as gynecomastia or excess water retention. Such adverse effects are impossible with this steroid. This will also greatly reduce the risk of high blood pressure as high blood pressure associated with anabolic steroid use is often due to extreme water retention. In fact, Proviron should provide an anti-estrogenic effect by preventing testosterone to estrogen conversion or at least tremendously slow it down.

[2] Androgenic:

The side effects of Proviron can include those of an androgenic nature. This shouldn’t be surprising when we consider androgenic action is this steroid’s primary purpose. Such side effects of Proviron can include acne, accelerated hair loss in those predisposed to male pattern baldness and body hair growth. Such effects are highly dependent on genetic predispositions. For example, those who are not genetically prone to male pattern baldness will not lose any hair. Those who are not sensitive to acne should not have any issues with breakouts. It’s also important to note that the 5-alpha reductase enzyme does not metabolize the Mesterolone hormone. There is no conversion to DHT, it’s already DHT and as a result 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like Finasteride will have very little to no affect on the steroid’s androgenicity.
Due to the potent androgenicity of Proviron, it will lead to severe virilization in women. This can and will more than likely include body hair growth, a deepening of the vocal chords and clitoral enlargement. Women are highly cautioned against using this anabolic steroid. There are several steroids that carry much lower virilization ratings such as Anavar and Primobolan. Such steroids should always be a female’s first choice.

[3] Cardiovascular:

Cardiovascular strain, particularly cholesterol issues will be the most concerning side effect of Proviron. This anabolic steroid can negatively affect cholesterol at a far more pronounced rate than most anabolic steroids. If you suffer from high cholesterol you should not touch this steroid. If you are healthy enough for use you will need to keep a close eye on your levels.
The Mesterolone hormone has the ability to greatly affect HDL and LDL cholesterol. Studies have shown that this steroid has the ability to reduce HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) by more than 30% and increase LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) by more than 60%. It is very possible to use Proviron without harsh cholesterol issues becoming a concern, but it will take some effort. A very cholesterol friendly diet is imperative. This should include an abundant amount of omega fatty acids; you should be supplementing with large amounts of fish oils every day. The individual’s diet should also be extremely limited in saturated fats as well as simple sugars. A cholesterol antioxidant is also recommended when using Proviron. While annoying to some, you should also include plenty of cardiovascular training into your routine. If you’re going to use this steroid you are highly recommended to follow these recommendations. If for some reason you can’t then you should not use this anabolic steroid.

[4] Testosterone:

All anabolic androgenic steroids are suppressive to natural testosterone on some level. The rate of suppression varies greatly between steroids and with Proviron it can be very minimal. Studies have shown that it’s more than possible to use the Mesterolone hormone without any significant reduction in natural testosterone production. This doesn’t mean it’s not suppressed at all, it simply means it’s minimal and rather inconsequential. A total dosing of 150mg per day or less should not have a notable effect on natural testosterone production. As the total dose begins to increase beyond this marking so will the rate of suppression. However, there really is no benefit in increasing the dose above 150mg per day for any man.
Due to minimal testosterone suppression, it is possible to use this anabolic steroid without exogenous testosterone or at least with a very minimal amount. An individual could implement a cycle of Anavar along with Proviron and keep his testosterone levels from falling to a very low range. However, most will be using other anabolic steroids that are highly suppressive to natural testosterone production along with Proviron making the use of exogenous testosterone imperative. Those who do not include it will put their body into a low testosterone state. Such a state can come with numerous bothersome symptoms and is extremely unhealthy.
Regardless of the specifics of the cycle, once all anabolic steroid use has come to an end natural testosterone production will begin again. Most are encouraged to implement a Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) plan at this stage. A PCT plan will speed up the recovery process; however, it will not return you to normal on its own. Total recovery will take time but it will take much longer without a PCT plan. With a PCT plan, you will ensure you have enough testosterone for proper bodily function while your levels continue to naturally rise over time. It should be noted; natural recovery assumes no prior existing low testosterone condition. It also assumes no severe damage was done to the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular-Axis (HPTA) due to improper anabolic steroid use.

[5] Hepatotoxicity:

Despite being an oral anabolic steroid, Proviron is not hepatotoxic. This is not a C17-aa anabolic steroid and will not burden the liver with any stress or damage.

Proviron Administration:

Standard Proviron doses to treat androgen or male fertility will normally fall in the 50-75mg per day range. Normally the total dosing is split into 2-3 25mg doses per day. In androgen deficiency plans, the total dosing almost always starts at 75mg per day and slowly reduces to 25-50mg per day depending on patient need.

In a performance capacity, Proviron doses normally range from 50-150mg per day. Most men, however, will find 100mg per day to be the minimum beneficial dose with both 100mg and 150mg being highly effective. Total use will normally last between 8-12 weeks. However, in an effort to breakthrough a sticking point in a cycle, say towards the end of a cycle a 6 week course of Proviron may do the trick.

When you’re planning your Proviron use, you will find it stacks well with all anabolic steroids. During the cutting phase it will be most beneficial in conjunction with steroids like Anavar, Masteron and Winstrol as well as Primobolan. It will greatly promote the androgenicity of these steroids in order to provide and promote the hard look desired. In a bulking phase, while it will stack well with all anabolic steroids it’s hard to say if you’ll need it or not. Some will simply keep it on hand and include it when it proves to be possibly necessarily beneficial.