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Oxandrolone Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 10, 2024.

Applies to oxandrolone: oral tablets.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

    Peliosis Hepatis
  • Peliosis hepatis, a condition in which the liver contains blood-filled cysts, reported with androgen therapy.1 4 30 31 34 May present with minimal hepatic dysfunction,1 4 34 or effects may not be apparent until complicated by life-threatening liver failure or rupture of the cysts resulting in intra-abdominal hemorrhage.1 4 5 7 31 34

  • Discontinuance of androgen therapy usually results in resolution of liver lesions.1 4 32 34

    Hepatic Adenoma and Carcinoma
  • Liver cell tumors reported with androgen therapy.1 4 5 7 30 31 34 Tumors are usually benign and androgen dependent; hepatocellular carcinoma, sometimes fatal, also reported.1 4 5 7 34

  • Liver cell tumors associated with androgens are more vascular than other hepatic tumors; hepatic effects may not be apparent until complicated by life-threatening intra-abdominal hemorrhage.1 4 5 34

  • Discontinuance of androgen therapy often but not always results in regression or cessation of progression of the tumor.1 4 5 34

    Lipid Abnormalities
  • May markedly alter serum lipoprotein concentrations; decreased HDL- and increased LDL-cholesterol reported with androgen therapy.1 4 30 31 34 Consider increased risk of cardiovascular disease (e.g., atherosclerosis and CAD).1 4 31 34

Side effects include:

Elevated aminotransferases (ALT, AST), lipid abnormalities (e.g., decreased HDL cholesterol concentrations).

For healthcare professionals

Applies to oxandrolone: oral tablet.

Dermatologic adverse events

Gastrointestinal

Genitourinary

Frequency not reported:

Prepubertal Males: Phallic enlargement and increased frequency or persistence of erections

Postpubertal Males: Inhibition of testicular function, testicular atrophy and oligospermia, impotence, chronic priapism, epididymitis, and bladder irritability

Females: Clitoral enlargement, menstrual irregularities[Ref]

Hematologic

Hepatic

Musculoskeletal

Metabolic

Oncologic

Other

Psychiatric

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Oxandrin (oxandrolone)." Bio-Tech

Further information

Oxandrolone side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.