Stanozolol (also known as Winstrol) is an orally effective C17-alpha-alkylated derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) with low androgenic qualities yet highly anabolic. Sterling-Winthrop released stanozolol to the prescription drug market in 1962 under the brand name Winstrol. Stanozolol has been prescribed as a medication for a variety of purposes, including bone mass preservation during osteoporosis and increasing muscle mass in cases of weight loss associated with medical conditions. Bodybuilders find its profound ability to reduce sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) an interesting peculiarity; by significantly lowering SHBG levels, it greatly increases the efficiency of other steroids in a stack. As a DHT derivative, stanozolol cannot be aromatized into estrogens. Hence, stanozolol does not cause water retention; it may even possess a diuretic effect. This makes it an excellent steroid to use throughout cutting cycles to reduce excessive water and fat, as well as anytime achieving hard and defined muscularity is a major goal. Stanozolol’s ability to promote strength and muscle growth without water retention makes it highly valued by dieting bodybuilders and competitive athletes in strength and speed sports.

WARNING: Stanozolol is known for its ability to dry out the joint fluid, which can lead to joint pain and damage. Don’t work with maximum weights while taking stanozolol. Testosterone stacked with stanozolol may help alleviate this effect by retaining some water. Also, stanozolol has been noted to provoke adverse changes in the lipid profile. Cholesterol levels (both HDL and LDL) should be kept under control when on cycle. Due to its C17-alpha-alkylation, stanozolol may exert stress on the liver. The recommended stanozolol cycle duration should be no longer than 6–8 weeks.