Molecular Formula
C19H30O3
Smiles
C[C@]12CC[C@H]3[C@H]([C@@H]1CC[C@]2(C)O)CC[C@@H]4[C@@]3(COC(=O)C4)C
Appearance
White crystalline powder
General Description
Oxandrolone is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) derived from dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by structural modification at the C-17 alpha position. It is characterized by an exceptionally high anabolic-to-androgenic activity ratio (approximately 10:1) and oral bioavailability, making it one of the most selective anabolic steroids available. Its use of a methyl group at C-17 prevents first-pass hepatic metabolism.
Mechanism of Action
Oxandrolone binds to the androgen receptor (AR) and exerts tissue-selective anabolic effects. Unlike testosterone derivatives, it is not subject to 5-alpha reduction to a more potent androgen, which minimizes androgenic side effects in non-target tissues. It increases nitrogen retention, enhances protein synthesis rates, and has moderate effects on hepatic enzyme induction. Its structural modifications result in minimal to no aromatization (conversion to estrogen), eliminating estrogen-related side effects such as gynecomastia.
Application
Oxandrolone is indicated for the promotion of weight gain after involuntary weight loss due to major surgery, severe trauma, chronic infections, or prolonged corticosteroid therapy. It is also used in the treatment of constitutional delay of growth and puberty, Turner syndrome, and HIV-associated wasting.
Oxandrolone was evaluated across 24 randomized controlled trials (1905 participants). In children with burns, it increased bone mineral content, preserved lean body mass, and reduced intensive care stay. In Klinefelter syndrome, it improved lean mass and cardiometabolic health. In Turner syndrome, it enhanced working memory and final height. In adults with HIV, oxandrolone improved weight and well-being. Older adults gained lean mass and strength. No consensus on optimal dosing was identified. Oxandrolone appears effective for improving body composition and reducing hospitalization time across various conditions. Further standardized research is needed to confirm benefits for specific diseases.
Fig. 1 Oxandrolone in populations with main reported outcomes for specific diseases. (de Mello Gindri I.; et al. 2025)
References
- de Mello Gindri I, et al. The safety and effectiveness of oxandrolone on different clinical conditions: A systematic review. Endocrine and Metabolic Science, 2025, 18: 100246.
What is the recommended storage condition for Oxandrolone?
It should be stored at controlled room temperature in a well-sealed container, protected from moisture and direct light, to maintain its chemical integrity throughout the shelf life.
Can we obtain batch-specific analytical data for Oxandrolone?
Batch-specific COA documents are standard with every shipment. Additional analytical reports, including HPLC chromatograms or spectral data, may be provided upon request.
Does your company offer custom packaging for Oxandrolone?
Yes, custom pack sizes are available. Specific quantity requirements can be discussed directly with our team to align with your production or research scale.
What regulatory status does Oxandrolone hold for export?
Regulatory documentation including DMF or CEP may be available depending on target market; please contact us with your specific regulatory requirements.