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Stanozolol

Generic name: stanozolol [ stah-NO-zo-lall ]
Brand name: Winstrol
Drug class: Androgens and anabolic steroids

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Aug 23, 2023.

What is stanozolol?

Stanozolol is a man-made steroid, similar to the a naturally occurring steroid testosterone.

Stanozolol is used in the treatment of hereditary angioedema, which causes episodes of swelling of the face, extremities, genitals, bowel wall, and throat. Stanozolol may decrease the frequency and severity of these attacks.

Stanozolol reduces bradykinin production and could potentially reduce the impact of a bradykinin storm. Bradykinin storms may be responsible for some of the complications experienced by COVID-19 patients.

Warnings

In rare cases, serious and even fatal cases of liver problems have developed during treatment with stanozolol. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience abdominal pain, light colored stools, dark colored urine, unusual fatigue, nausea or vomiting, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These may be early signs of liver problems.

Before taking this medicine

Do not take stanozolol without first talking to your doctor if you have

To make sure stanozolol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

You may not be able to take stanozolol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Stanozolol is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether stanozolol passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take stanozolol?

Take stanozolol exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Stanozolol can be taken with or without food.

It is important to take this medicine regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with this medicine to monitor progress and side effects.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct light.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Angioedema:

Prophylactic use to decrease freguency and severity of attacks of hereditary angioedema.

Initial dose: 2 mg orally 3 times a day.

Dose Adjustments:

Decrease dose at intervals of 1 to 3 months to a maintenance dose of 2 mg/day.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to threaten life. Contact an emergency room or poison control center for advice if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an stanozolol overdose are not known.

What to avoid

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking stanozolol unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Stanozolol side effects

In rare cases, serious and even fatal cases of liver problems have developed during treatment with stanozolol. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience abdominal pain, light colored stools, dark colored urine, unusual fatigue, nausea or vomiting, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These may be early signs of liver problems.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:

Common stanozolol side effects may include:

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect stanozolol?

Before taking stanozolol, talk to your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with stanozolol. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Further information

What does my medication look like?

Stanozolol is available with a prescription under the brand name Winstrol. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.