Stanozolol, widely recognized under the brand name Winstrol (oral) and Winstrol Depot (injectable), is one of the most popular anabolic steroids used in cutting cycles. While compounds like Dianabol and Anadrol are better suited for bulking, Winstrol excels in enhancing muscle definition without significant weight gain.
Why Winstrol Is Not for Bulking
Winstrol is primarily a cutting steroid—it offers minimal mass gain but contributes to a dry, hardened physique. While it can add strength, the gains are modest compared to bulking agents. Most users avoid Winstrol in bulking stacks; however, some include it at low doses due to its unique ability to lower SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin). A dose of 2 mg/kg has been shown to significantly reduce SHBG, thereby increasing free testosterone levels in the body.
If you stack Winstrol with any testosterone-based compound, post-cycle support is essential to avoid suppression side effects like libido issues.
Winstrol and SHBG Suppression
Lowering SHBG is one of Winstrol’s most notable benefits. SHBG binds to testosterone, rendering it inactive. By lowering SHBG, more free testosterone becomes available—boosting performance, recovery, and fat-burning potential. For bulking users seeking to enhance free T without bloating, a microdose of Winstrol may be strategically used, but caution is advised due to its hepatotoxicity.
Winstrol Side Effects and Liver Toxicity
Stanozolol is a 17-alpha-alkylated compound, meaning it survives the first liver pass and can be taken orally. However, this also makes it highly hepatotoxic. In fact, Stanozolol ranks among the most liver-straining steroids per milligram. This is why most users limit its use to no more than 6 weeks, especially if they’re not combining it with injectable forms that bypass first-pass metabolism.
Side effects include:
- Liver stress and elevated liver enzymes
- Adverse cholesterol profiles (HDL suppression, LDL elevation)
- Dry joints or tendon discomfort (may increase injury risk)
- Testosterone suppression (requires PCT like Nolvadex or Clomid)
We recommend pairing Winstrol with liver support supplements like Liv 52 or TUDCA to mitigate hepatic strain.
Winstrol Effects on Physique and Performance
Stanozolol helps deliver a “dry” appearance by reducing subcutaneous water retention. This makes it ideal for pre-contest prep or summer shredding phases. Many bodybuilders rely on it during final weeks to achieve that tight, vascular look. Note, however, that joint discomfort may be a concern for athletes in contact or high-impact sports, as Winstrol can weaken collagen and tendon structure in some individuals.
Winstrol Profile (Stanozolol)
- Chemical Name: 17beta-Hydroxy-17-methyl-5alpha-androstano[3,2-c]pyrazole
- Molecular Weight: 344.54 g/mol
- Molecular Formula: C22H36N2O
- Effective Dose (Men): 50–100 mg/day
- Effective Dose (Women): 2.5–10 mg/day
- Active Life: ~8 hours
- Detection Time: 3 weeks (oral) / 9 weeks (injectable)
- Androgenic / Anabolic Ratio: 30:320
Conclusion
Winstrol is best used in short cutting cycles to achieve muscle hardness and a lean look. If used correctly—with proper cycle length, support supplements, and a solid PCT protocol—Stanozolol can be a powerful tool for physique transformation. However, due to its impact on liver and cholesterol, it’s not for casual or year-round use. Know your body, and cycle wisely.