CoachP

Effect

Muscle growth

Gains in muscle size and strength. In this guide that means anabolic steroids, which act on the androgen receptor.

12 compounds in the guide

Educational only. A summary of published research, not medical advice or a recommendation. No doses are listed. Compounds are listed from the strongest evidence to the weakest. Being listed isn't a recommendation.

Related pathways

The receptors and pathways behind this effect.

Compounds

  • Testosterone

    FDA-approved

    Anabolic steroids · Large human trials

    The main male sex hormone. Prescribed as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for diagnosed low testosterone, and the most widely used anabolic steroid outside medicine.

  • Nandrolone

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An injectable steroid closely related to testosterone (a “19-nor” steroid), once used medically to treat anemia and muscle wasting.

  • Methandrostenolone

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    One of the first oral steroids, known for fast weight gain, much of it water.

  • Oxandrolone

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An oral steroid often described as “mild”, though its US approval was pulled in 2023 and it still strains the liver and cholesterol.

  • Oxymetholone

    FDA-approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    A strong oral steroid used medically for certain anemias, known in bodybuilding for rapid weight and water gain.

  • Stanozolol

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An oral and injectable steroid known for a lean, “dry” look, and for sharply lowering HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

  • Drostanolone

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An injectable DHT-derived steroid, used in bodybuilding mostly during cutting phases.

  • Methenolone

    Not approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    A DHT-derived steroid, injected or taken as a tablet, often described by users as mild, though it still shuts down natural testosterone and worsens cholesterol.

  • Turinabol

    Not approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An oral steroid derived from Dianabol, with a chlorine atom that stops it converting to estrogen.

  • Trenbolone

    Veterinary only

    Anabolic steroids · Mostly animal & lab studies

    A veterinary steroid made for cattle, known for strong effects on muscle and fat and for frequent, severe side effects.

  • Boldenone

    Veterinary only

    Anabolic steroids · Mostly animal & lab studies

    A long-acting veterinary injectable related to testosterone, known among users for raising appetite and red blood cell counts.

  • Methasterone

    Not approved

    Anabolic steroids · Mostly animal & lab studies

    A potent oral “designer” steroid once sold as a supplement, and linked to serious liver injury.

Other effects