What is Clenbuterol?
Clenbuterol is a drug that belongs to a class of medications known as beta2-agonists. These drugs can cause dilation of the bronchial muscles and are often used to treat asthma [1]. It is prescribed overseas as a bronchodilator but is not approved for use in humans in the United States [2].
What is Anavar?
Anavar, also known as Oxandrolone, is a type of anabolic steroid that is a synthetic derivative of testosterone. Anabolic steroids like Anavar are used to promote the growth of skeletal muscle and to enhance secondary sexual characteristics.[3]
Clenbuterol vs Anavar: Uses
Uses of Clenbuterol
Clenbuterol is primarily used for treating asthma but has recently gained popularity as a weight loss supplement due to its effect on muscle growth and fat reduction [3]. It has properties similar to anabolic steroids, such as promoting an increase in muscle mass [1].
Clenbuterol is also used in veterinary medicine, particularly for treating airway obstruction in horses [1]. It has been used in livestock to increase the amount of lean muscle [1].
Uses of Anavar
Anavar has been used since the 1930s to promote muscle growth, improve athletic performance, and enhance cosmetic appearance [1].
It is used for a variety of health and athletic purposes. It is used to gain body mass, lower overall body fat percentage, increase muscle strength and endurance and improve performance in strength-related sports. It is also used for maintaining muscle mass in conditions like liver disease or cancer that cause muscles to waste away [4].
In the medical field, anabolic steroids like Anavar are used to treat various hormone problems in men, delayed puberty, and muscle loss from some diseases [5].
However, it's important to note that the misuse of anabolic steroids can lead to significant adverse physical and psychological effects, including addiction. Therefore, their use should be under the supervision of a healthcare provider [5]
Anavar vs Clenbuterol: Side effects
Side effects of Clenbuterol
Clenbuterol can lead to:
- increased heart rate,
- rapid breathing,
- heart palpitations,
- chest pain,
- tremors,
- anxiety,
- and electrolyte imbalance when overused or misused [1].
In some cases, it has been associated with myocardial infarction, even in otherwise healthy individuals [6]. Long-term use can lead to muscle fatigue and decreased expression of beta 2-adrenergic receptors, which may limit the expected functional improvement [7]. Other side effects include hyperglycemia, hepatomegaly, and even death [8].
Side effects of Anavar
Anavar can cause a plethora of severe side effects. These include:
- cardiomyopathy,
- atherosclerosis,
- hypercoagulopathy,
- hepatic dysfunction,
- psychiatric and behavioural disturbances [9].
Other side effects include thromboembolic disorders, cardiac disorders, and reproductive disorders [10]. Anabolic steroids can also lead to body dysmorphia, liver damage, gynecomastia in men, hypogonadism, reduced sperm production, and early-onset male-pattern baldness [4].
It's important to note that these substances can affect different individuals differently, and a healthcare professional should always monitor their use.
Are Clenbuterol and Anavar safe?
Given the potential for severe side effects, the misuse of these substances can be dangerous. It's also worth noting that both clenbuterol and anabolic steroids like Anavar are banned substances in many sports due to their performance-enhancing effects.
In conclusion, while these substances may have some effects that are desirable to athletes and bodybuilders, their potential for serious side effects and the legal and ethical issues surrounding their use make them unsafe for non-medical use.