The one word that would describe
Proviron is “unique.” Proviron is an oral anabolic steroid of the generic compound
mesterolone,
but behaves as an anti-aromatase agent Thus, Proviron is classified as
an androgenic steroid and anti-aromatization prescription drug.
Speculations abound on how Proviron exerts this activity. Some
steroid
experts say it may be attributed to estrogen receptor downregulation.
There is a generally accepted theory, however, which says that
Proviron’s anti-estrogenic characteristics are due to its ability to
prevent the production of
estrogens. And since
Proviron
is considered a weak anabolic, it is more popular for its ability to
prevent gyno and fluid retention. In fact, if you’re to take a look at
Proviron’s history you’d know that this has always been the case with
Proviron. Bodybuilders during the 1970s to 1980s used Proviron mostly
for its anti-aromatase properties. Drugs like
Arimidex and Aromasin were not yet available at that time.
Proviron
binds well with androgen receptors, but it has also strong affinity for
the hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3HSD), an enzyme that downgrades
steroids by removing their 3-keto group. This is the reason why this
steroid displays weak anabolic effects.
Proviron,
however, is well known as a “helper” steroid. This compound has high
affinity for the sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which is why it
is often stacked in a cycle to potentiate the efficacy of the other
steroids being used. SHBG, particularly those produced by the testes,
have high affinity for androgens thus they are sometimes called
androgen-binding protein. Consequently, when Proviron binds with SHBG,
androgens are free to exert their anabolic effects.
Proviron is
preferred in a cycle wherein highly aromatizable agents are used.
Aromatizable drugs are notorious for causing excessive water retention
and gynecomastia. Proviron is also used post cycle since it is
effective in inhibiting the activity, as well as preventing the
production of estrogen. Remember that even when you stop taking
exogenous androgens, aka steroids, your body is still unable to produce
its own androgens. As such, there are more circulating estrogens in
your body than androgens. This is why
Proviron is also a good drug to use in post-cycle therapy as it can hasten sperm production to restore sexual functions.
This
is not to say, however, that estrogen is the baddest of all hormones.
This hormone is also necessary for muscle growth to occur. A moderately
elevated estrogen level is, in fact, much desired by bodybuilders who
are after a more pronounced muscle mass. And it is not only estrogen
that can cause gynecomastia and fluid retention; progestin can also
exhibit side effects similar to those observed with excessive estrogen
level.
The most common complaint with
Proviron
by male users is erectile dysfunction, specifically prolonged and
frequent erections. The potential side effect for female users with
Proviron use is disruption of menstrual cycles.
Liver damage, the
most talked-about side effect of steroid use, will not be a problem
with Proviron since it has not been modified at the 4th ring; meaning,
it is not alpha-alkylated. Most orals have this alteration for them to
survive the first-pass metabolism.
Recommended daily dosage of Proviron is 25mg-200mg daily for males and 25mg-50mg for females.
