Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone designed to enhance muscle mass, strength, and performance. But not all steroids are the same — each has its own power, purpose, and side effect profile. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular steroids, what they’re used for, and what you can expect from each.
1. Testosterone (Cypionate / Enanthate / Propionate)
Main Effects:
- Muscle growth
- Strength gain
- Libido boost
- Fat loss support
Use: The base of nearly all cycles. Ideal for both bulking and cutting.
Side Effects: Estrogen conversion (bloat, gyno), acne, hair loss.
Half-life:
- Cypionate: 8 days
- Enanthate: 5–7 days
- Propionate: 2–3 days
2. Dianabol (Methandrostenolone)
Main Effects:
- Massive strength and size gains
- Quick muscle pumps
- Increased nitrogen retention
Use: Bulking cycles, often in the first 4–6 weeks of a stack.
Side Effects: Water retention, liver toxicity, mood swings.
Form: Oral
Cycle Duration: 4–6 weeks max
3. Trenbolone (Tren A / Tren E)
Main Effects:
- Extreme strength and lean mass
- Hard, dry physique
- No estrogen conversion
Use: Experienced users during cutting or hard bulking cycles.
Side Effects: Night sweats, aggression, insomnia, “tren cough.”
Potency: 5x more androgenic than testosterone
Warning: Not for beginners!
4. Anavar (Oxandrolone)
Main Effects:
- Lean muscle preservation
- Strength with minimal weight gain
- Fat loss support
Use: Cutting and recomposition, great for women. https://labsteroid.com/
Side Effects: Mild liver toxicity, minimal estrogen issues.
Cycle Length: 6–8 weeks
Stack Tip: Often paired with Test or Winstrol
5. Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate)
Main Effects:
- Joint pain relief
- Steady muscle gain
- Improved recovery
Use: Long bulking cycles
Side Effects: “Deca dick” (libido suppression), estrogen buildup
Half-life: Long (up to 15 days)
Stack Tip: Always stack with Testosterone
6. Winstrol (Stanozolol)
Main Effects:
- Hard, dry muscle appearance
- Strength and speed enhancement
- Fat loss
Use: Cutting or pre-competition
Side Effects: Joint dryness, hair loss, liver strain
Form: Oral or injectable
Popular In: Athletic sports for explosive power
7. Masteron (Drostanolone Propionate)
Main Effects:
- Dry, grainy muscle look
- Anti-estrogen properties
- Mild fat-burning
Use: Cutting, photoshoots, competition prep
Side Effects: Mild, but androgenic effects possible
Great for: Final weeks before stage or summer beach cut
Choosing the Right Steroid
Goal | Best Steroid |
Bulking | Testosterone, Dianabol, Deca |
Cutting | Anavar, Winstrol, Masteron |
Strength | Trenbolone, Dianabol |
Lean Gains | Anavar, Masteron |
Final Thoughts: Use with Caution
Steroids can offer serious gains, but they come with serious risks too. Always use:
- Proper dosage and cycle length
- Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)
- Bloodwork monitoring
- Legitimate sources only