Mastaplex 100 - Drostanolone Propionate 10 ml Best In USA

Mastaplex 100 Xt Labs Overview

(Mastaplex 100 by XT Labs is a branded injectable drostanolone propionate (Masteron) product.)
Mastaplex 100 XT Labs is an anabolic steroid formulation containing drostanolone propionate, popularly known by the trade name Masteron in bodybuilding circles. Drostanolone propionate is a synthetic derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) originally developed as a medication for certain cancers, but it later gained prominence as a performance-enhancing drug. This article provides a medically-focused overview of Mastaplex 100 and its active ingredient drostanolone propionate – covering its origins, medical uses, pharmacology, transition into bodybuilding, benefits, and risks – all supported by scientific sources. Drostanolone’s history spans from treating advanced breast cancer in the mid-20th century to becoming a coveted cutting agent for physique athletes, reflecting a significant shift from clinical therapy to illicit sports usesteroid.commdpi.com. The information herein is grounded in evidence and current as of 2025, aligning with E-E-A-T (experience, expertise, authoritativeness, trustworthiness) principles for accuracy and trust.

What is Mastaplex 100 XT Labs?

Mastaplex 100 is a product name for an injectable drostanolone steroid solution produced by the underground manufacturer XT Labs. Each Mastaplex 100 vial typically contains drostanolone propionate dosed at 100 mg per milliliter, often formulated as a mix of drostanolone propionate (a fast-acting ester) and drostanolone enanthate (a longer-acting ester). Combining two esters aims to sustain stable hormone levels: the propionate ester enables rapid onset, while the enanthate ester extends the drug’s activity. In practical terms, Mastaplex 100 delivers the hormone drostanolone – a potent anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) – into the body via intramuscular injection. Drostanolone itself is a modified DHT molecule with a methyl group added at the 2-alpha position, which increases its anabolic potency and prevents it from being rapidly broken down in skeletal muscle. Mastaplex 100 (Drostanolone Propionate) does not aromatize into estrogen, meaning it cannot convert to estrogen at any dose; this property eliminates estrogen-related side effects such as water retention and gynecomastia. The absence of estrogenic activity is a hallmark of drostanolone and one reason it was medically useful and later prized by bodybuilders. In summary, Mastaplex 100 XT Labs is essentially Masteron in an injectable form – a DHT-derived anabolic steroid preparation known for producing lean, hard muscle gains without significant bloating.

Medical Origins and Development of Drostanolone Propionate

Drostanolone propionate, the active compound in Mastaplex 100 XT Labs, has its roots in mid-20th-century oncology. Originally developed as a therapeutic agent for advanced breast cancer, this DHT-derived anabolic steroid was formulated to provide strong anti-estrogenic effects without causing significant water retention or estrogen-related side effects. Understanding its medical origins sheds light on how drostanolone transitioned from a pharmaceutical intervention into a performance-enhancing substance widely used in bodybuilding and sports today.

Early Synthesis and Pharmaceutical Approval

Drostanolone propionate was first synthesized in 1959 by pharmaceutical researchers and entered medical practice in the early 1960s. Developed by Syntex Laboratories—the same company behind oxymetholone—it was marketed under trade names such as Masteron, Masteril, Drolban, and Metormon. In 1961, it received approval as a prescription medication, primarily indicated for the treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Mechanism of Action and Anti-Estrogenic Properties

As a synthetic derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), drostanolone acts as a potent androgen receptor agonist and does not convert to estrogen. This non-aromatizing profile allowed it to inhibit estrogen-sensitive tumor growth. Drostanolone’s anti-estrogenic mechanism made it effective against estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancers, particularly when combined with hormonal agents like tamoxifen.

Clinical Use in Breast Cancer Therapy

During the 1960s and 1970s, drostanolone propionate was widely used in the treatment of advanced or inoperable breast cancer. Clinical studies showed that drostanolone combined with tamoxifen produced superior tumor regression rates compared to certain chemotherapy protocols. Its brand name “Masteron” is derived from the root mast- (breast), highlighting its intended role in breast cancer treatment.

Female Tolerance and Side Effect Profile

One of drostanolone’s medical advantages was its relatively mild androgenic potency. It offered anti-estrogenic benefits with fewer masculinizing side effects compared to testosterone. However, high therapeutic doses still caused virilization in female patients—including deepened voice, hair growth, and clitoral enlargement—limiting its long-term viability in oncology.

Discontinuation and Decline in Medical Use

By the 1980s, medical use of drostanolone declined sharply due to the emergence of safer anti-estrogenic therapies such as tamoxifen monotherapy and aromatase inhibitors. Although drostanolone remained FDA-listed for some time, it was rarely prescribed. By the 1990s, most pharmaceutical brands had been discontinued, and drostanolone propionate is no longer marketed for medical use.

Legacy in Pharmacology and Performance Enhancement

Despite being phased out of oncology, drostanolone’s unique anti-estrogenic and anabolic profile found renewed relevance in bodybuilding and sports. Known widely as Masteron in athletic circles, it transitioned from a clinical treatment to a performance-enhancing compound, laying the groundwork for its modern use in physique enhancement cycles.

Transition from Medicine to Bodybuilding: Mastaplex 100 (Masteron) in Sports

After its clinical success in oncology, drostanolone propionate—commonly known as Masteron—found new life in the athletic world. Its strong androgenic effects, lack of estrogen conversion, and unique muscle-hardening properties made it a popular choice among competitive bodybuilders and strength athletes starting in the late 1970s. This section explores how a breast cancer drug evolved into a staple of cutting cycles in bodybuilding and performance sports, with ongoing use despite its banned status.

Early Adoption in Bodybuilding Culture

Masteron first entered the commercial market in the 1970s under Syntex branding, but it remained obscure until athletes in the bodybuilding community recognized its cutting potential. By the early 1980s, it was considered essential for contest preparation due to its ability to enhance muscle hardness, reduce water retention, and preserve strength while dieting. Unlike bulking steroids, Masteron provided a dry, chiseled appearance ideal for competitive presentation. Bodybuilders discovered that its effects were most visible when body fat was already low, making it a finishing compound in pre-contest protocols.

Advantages of Masteron Compared to Other Steroids

In performance enhancement contexts, drostanolone propionate is often compared to other DHT-based compounds like Winstrol (stanozolol), Primobolan (metenolone), and Proviron (mesterolone). Masteron stands out for its relatively strong androgenic potency in a non-estrogenic steroid. As a modified DHT molecule, drostanolone binds effectively to androgen receptors and promotes lean muscle density, fat loss, and strength retention. Additionally, its anti-estrogenic profile allows it to synergize with aromatizing steroids by reducing the need for external estrogen control (like aromatase inhibitors or SERMs). This made it a key stacking agent for physique athletes seeking maximal definition.

Rise of Underground Preparations: Mastaplex 100

After the discontinuation of pharmaceutical drostanolone brands, underground laboratories began producing unlicensed versions. Mastaplex 100 XT Labs emerged as one such product, containing drostanolone propionate at 100 mg/mL and marketed to bodybuilders looking for a reliable Masteron replacement. These black-market preparations are widely available but considered illegal in most jurisdictions. In the United States and many countries, drostanolone is a Schedule III controlled substance, making its use outside of prescription strictly prohibited. Despite the risks, Mastaplex and similar underground products remain popular among athletes prioritizing muscular definition and hormonal control.

Use in Competitive Sports and Doping

Beyond bodybuilding, drostanolone propionate has been misused in various competitive sports to boost performance. Athletes in weight-class disciplines such as MMA, sprinting, and powerlifting have utilized Masteron to gain strength without additional mass. However, drostanolone is banned at all times by WADA and other anti-doping agencies. It remains one of the most frequently detected steroids in doping controls, thanks to advancements in mass spectrometry and metabolite analysis. Notable cases include UFC athletes who have tested positive and received multi-year suspensions. Despite the detection risk, some athletes continue to abuse the drug in pursuit of a competitive edge.

Mastaplex 100 Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action of Drostanolone Propionate

Drostanolone propionate, the active compound in Mastaplex 100 XT Labs, is a synthetic anabolic steroid derived from dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Its pharmacological profile is defined by strong androgen receptor activation, resistance to estrogenic conversion, and tissue-selective anabolic effects. These characteristics make it highly effective in physique refinement, particularly during cutting phases. Below is a breakdown of its core pharmacological mechanisms.

Androgen Receptor Agonism and Anabolic Effects

Drostanolone functions as a potent androgen receptor (AR) agonist. In skeletal muscle tissue, AR activation enhances protein synthesis and nitrogen retention, supporting muscle preservation and lean mass development. Athletes using drostanolone often report increased muscle density, strength retention during caloric deficits, and improved body composition. Its activity in fat cells may also promote lipolysis, contributing to fat loss and a harder, leaner physique.

Anti-Estrogenic Properties and Aromatase Inhibition

Unlike many anabolic steroids, drostanolone does not aromatize into estrogen. It not only lacks estrogenic activity but may also exhibit functional anti-estrogenic effects. Research and anecdotal use suggest that drostanolone competes with substrates for the aromatase enzyme and may even block estrogen receptor binding in target tissues. This mechanism was crucial in its original application for estrogen-sensitive breast cancers and remains relevant today in bodybuilding, where it helps mitigate side effects like gynecomastia and water retention when stacked with aromatizable steroids like testosterone.

Administration, Half-Life, and Metabolic Pathways

As a short-acting propionate ester, drostanolone propionate has a half-life of approximately 2 days. It is typically administered via intramuscular injection every other day or three times per week to maintain stable plasma levels. An enanthate variant, less common but longer-acting, extends the dosing interval to once weekly. The compound is not orally bioavailable due to first-pass hepatic metabolism. Once injected, the ester is cleaved, releasing active drostanolone, which is then metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted in urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. Modern anti-doping protocols detect these metabolites using advanced mass spectrometry techniques.

Tissue Selectivity and Physiological Impact

Drostanolone exhibits tissue-selective activity. Its 2α-methyl modification increases resistance to metabolic deactivation in muscle by 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, enhancing anabolic potency locally. However, systemic androgenic effects still occur. High doses can affect secondary sexual tissues—stimulating hair follicles (leading to body hair growth or scalp hair loss), altering vocal cord structure, and potentially impacting prostate tissue. These effects depend on individual genetic predisposition and dose duration.

Summary of Drostanolone’s Pharmacodynamic Profile

In essence, drostanolone propionate acts as a non-estrogenic, DHT-based anabolic agent optimized for muscle refinement. It delivers a dry, aesthetic look ideal for pre-contest preparation by enhancing muscular definition and reducing estrogen-driven water retention. While it does not match the bulk-building power of compounds like testosterone or nandrolone, its role in cutting cycles and hormonal balance makes it one of the most respected agents in physique optimization protocols.

Benefits and Effects of Mastaplex 100 (Masteron)

Mastaplex 100 XT Labs contains drostanolone propionate, a DHT-derived anabolic steroid widely used in physique enhancement and pre-contest bodybuilding. Known for its unique cosmetic and performance-enhancing properties, Masteron is primarily valued during cutting cycles due to its ability to harden muscles, reduce subcutaneous fat, and prevent estrogen-related side effects. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key benefits associated with Mastaplex use.

Muscle Hardening and Visual Definition

Masteron is recognized for creating a dry, etched muscle appearance, making it ideal for contest preparation. When body fat is already low, drostanolone propionate significantly enhances muscle density, vascularity, and separation. These visual effects are attributed to its non-estrogenic nature—it does not cause water retention, which means muscles appear sharper and more defined. Some users report an accelerated “chiseled” look within weeks of use, particularly in sub-10% body fat conditions.

Strength Maintenance and Performance Support

Despite its moderate anabolic rating, drostanolone often helps athletes maintain or increase strength during caloric restriction. This makes it especially valuable in cutting diets or weight-class sports like MMA, boxing, or powerlifting. The compound’s androgenic stimulation may support neuromuscular activation, contributing to power output without increasing body weight—a key advantage in sports requiring strength-to-weight efficiency.

Absence of Estrogenic Side Effects

One of Masteron’s most notable features is its complete lack of estrogenic activity. Users generally do not experience common side effects such as gynecomastia, water retention, or fat gain in estrogen-sensitive areas. In fact, its anti-estrogenic mechanism may amplify fat loss during cutting phases by suppressing estrogenic influence on water and fat storage. Additionally, drostanolone’s non-aromatizing structure helps reduce blood pressure spikes related to fluid retention—common with other bulking steroids.

Synergy and Stack Compatibility

Masteron is highly valued for its ability to enhance the results of other anabolic steroids in a stack. When paired with testosterone, it adds muscular hardness while countering estrogenic bloating. Combined with compounds like Winstrol or Trenbolone, it contributes to a dry, grainy finish. Its mild anti-estrogenic action can also reduce the reliance on ancillary medications such as aromatase inhibitors (AIs) or SERMs. For this reason, Mastaplex is frequently used in the final weeks of a pre-contest cycle to polish physique detail.

Moderate Anabolic Preservation

Although not intended for mass-gaining phases, drostanolone provides moderate anabolic support. It helps preserve lean muscle tissue during calorie deficits, preventing catabolism in extended cutting phases. While the compound is less effective for off-season bulking, some users include low doses of Masteron during clean bulks to help control fat gain and support a leaner look year-round. Its anabolic impact is often compared to Primobolan—mild but consistent.

Contextual Use and Limitations

Masteron’s benefits are highly dependent on body composition. Its full cosmetic impact is best observed in individuals under 10–12% body fat. For recreational users with higher fat levels, the drug’s visual effects may be less dramatic. Nonetheless, for competitive athletes and bodybuilders, Mastaplex is considered a premium finishing agent that can elevate a good physique to elite stage-ready quality. In performance settings, it offers functional strength and speed improvements without mass gain—an advantage for athletes focused on power-to-weight ratio.

Side Effects and Health Risks of Mastaplex 100 (Drostanolone Propionate)

Although drostanolone propionate—found in Mastaplex 100 XT Labs—is considered to have a milder adverse effect profile than many anabolic steroids, it is not without risks. Both medical and non-medical use can result in androgenic, cardiovascular, endocrine, and reproductive side effects. Understanding these risks is critical for informed use and health monitoring. Below is a categorized summary of potential adverse effects associated with Masteron.

Androgenic Side Effects

As a DHT-derived steroid, drostanolone can trigger classic androgenic symptoms, including:

• Acne and increased skin oiliness
• Accelerated hair loss in men predisposed to male-pattern baldness
• Excessive body and facial hair growth

In women, even low doses may lead to virilization—manifesting as deepened voice, clitoral enlargement, and facial hair. These changes may become irreversible, prompting the discontinuation of use at the first signs of masculinization. Historically, these effects led to the discontinuation of drostanolone in female breast cancer therapy.

Estrogenic Side Effects

Drostanolone does not aromatize, meaning it does not convert into estrogen. Users typically do not experience:

• Gynecomastia (male breast tissue growth)
• Water retention
• Estrogen-related fat accumulation

However, when stacked with aromatizable steroids like testosterone, external estrogen control may still be necessary. Masteron’s anti-estrogenic effect can help but is not a replacement for aromatase inhibitors in high-estrogen cycles.

Cardiovascular Risks

Despite being injectable and non-hepatotoxic, drostanolone may impair cardiovascular health through:

• Lowering HDL (“good” cholesterol)
• Increasing LDL (“bad” cholesterol)
• Raising blood pressure in sensitive individuals

These lipid changes can elevate the risk of atherosclerosis and long-term heart disease. Regular cardiovascular monitoring and heart-healthy dietary practices are highly recommended during use.

Liver Health and Hepatotoxicity

Unlike 17α-alkylated oral steroids, drostanolone is not hepatotoxic at therapeutic or recreational dosages. However, liver strain may occur in cases of polypharmacy or pre-existing hepatic conditions. The injectable route further minimizes direct liver stress.

Hormonal Suppression and Reproductive Effects

Like other exogenous androgens, Masteron suppresses endogenous testosterone production by inhibiting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This may lead to:

• Temporary infertility or reduced sperm count
• Testicular atrophy
• Low libido post-cycle

A structured Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) protocol is essential to restore normal hormonal function after discontinuation.

Neuropsychological Effects

Though drostanolone is not typically linked to extreme aggression, users may still experience:

• Elevated libido or mood swings
• Irritability or impatience
• Increased gym intensity or focus

These effects stem from its androgenic influence on the central nervous system and may vary between individuals.

Other Notable Health Concerns

• Virilization in women: Even small doses can induce male secondary sexual characteristics.
• Prostate enlargement: Particularly in older males or those predisposed to prostate issues.
• Testicular atrophy and reduced fertility: Due to hormonal feedback suppression.
• Injection site complications: Risk of pain, irritation, or infection from improper technique.

Long-Term Health Risks

Chronic or high-dose use of drostanolone may lead to serious conditions such as:

• Cardiomyopathy and cardiovascular disease
• Endocrine system disruption
• Kidney and liver strain (in multi-drug protocols)
• Psychiatric disturbances (e.g., depression, aggression)

Documented medical cases report lasting harm in long-term users, reinforcing the importance of caution and professional supervision if ever used clinically.

Disclaimer: This overview is for educational purposes only. Mastaplex and drostanolone propionate are classified substances in many countries, and non-medical use poses legal and health risks.

Current Status and Conclusion

Today, drostanolone propionate (Masteron) occupies an interesting place: medically obsolete but persistently present in the athletic underground. As of 2025, there are no legitimate pharmaceutical companies producing Masteron for therapeutic use in breast cancer or any other indication. Safer and more targeted medications have supplanted it in the oncology field. However, drostanolone’s legacy survives in the form of products like Mastaplex 100 from labs catering to bodybuilders. These products are sold illicitly, often online or in gyms, to those seeking Masteron’s renowned cutting benefits.

From a regulatory standpoint, drostanolone is a controlled substance and a banned doping agent. Sports organizations continue to refine testing to catch users, and each year athletes are sanctioned for Masteron use. Yet within bodybuilding (particularly at the non-tested or professional level), Mastaplex remains a staple in contest prep cycles, underscoring the enduring esteem for what drostanolone can do to a physique.

In conclusion, Mastaplex 100 XT Labs represents the modern incarnation of a steroid that began as a breakthrough cancer treatment and evolved into a coveted performance enhancer. Drostanolone propionate’s journey from the 1960s “revolutionary” breast cancer drug to a 21st-century cutting steroid exemplifies the dual-use nature of many hormones – therapeutic in one context, harmful in another. When used medically, drostanolone helped some cancer patients when few options existed. When used illicitly, it has helped athletes achieve extreme muscular definition at the cost of legal and health risks.

This comprehensive overview highlighted drostanolone’s medical origins, pharmacology, benefits, and dangers, providing evidence-based insights. While Mastaplex and Masteron continue to be discussed on fitness forums and used in competitions, it is critical to approach such potent substances with caution and awareness of the potential consequences. The era of legitimate medical Masteron may be over, but its story – and the scientific lessons learned from it – remain highly relevant.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice nor an endorsement of steroid use. Drostanolone propionate (Masteron) and products like Mastaplex 100 are controlled substances; non-medical use is illegal in many regions. Anabolic steroid use without a doctor’s supervision can lead to serious health risks. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before considering any performance-enhancing substances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drostanolone Propionate (Mastaplex 100)

What is Mastaplex 100 and what is its active compound?

Mastaplex 100 is a modern underground preparation that contains 100 mg/mL of drostanolone propionate, a synthetic anabolic steroid derived from dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is widely used in physique enhancement and is chemically identical to the compound historically marketed as Masteron.

How does drostanolone propionate work in the body?

Drostanolone acts primarily by binding to androgen receptors in muscle tissue, promoting protein synthesis and nitrogen retention. This contributes to increased muscle hardness, preservation of lean mass, and enhanced fat metabolism. It also has anti-estrogenic effects, helping reduce water retention and gynecomastia when combined with aromatizable steroids.

Is Mastaplex 100 legal to use?

Drostanolone propionate is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States and is similarly restricted in many countries. This means possession, use, or distribution without a valid medical prescription is illegal. Mastaplex 100 is not a licensed pharmaceutical product and exists only within underground performance-enhancement markets.

What are the medical origins of drostanolone propionate?

Originally developed in the 1960s by Syntex Laboratories, drostanolone propionate was approved for treating advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It was valued for its anti-estrogenic mechanism, which inhibited estrogen-sensitive tumor growth. Its medical use declined in the 1980s due to the availability of safer alternatives like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors.

What are the side effects of using Mastaplex 100 or drostanolone propionate?

Side effects include androgenic symptoms such as acne, accelerated hair loss, and virilization in women. Cardiovascular risks may involve unfavorable cholesterol changes and elevated blood pressure. Drostanolone suppresses natural testosterone production and may cause temporary infertility. Psychological and prostate-related effects are also possible, especially with prolonged or high-dose use.

How is drostanolone propionate typically administered?

Due to its short half-life of about two days, drostanolone propionate is typically injected intramuscularly every other day or three times per week. An enanthate ester version, which is less common, allows for weekly injections. Oral administration is ineffective due to poor bioavailability caused by first-pass liver metabolism.

Can women use drostanolone safely?

Although drostanolone was initially prescribed to women for breast cancer, even therapeutic doses often led to masculinizing side effects. In modern performance contexts, its use by women is rare and risky. Any signs of virilization—such as voice changes or body hair growth—should prompt immediate discontinuation to prevent irreversible effects.

Why do bodybuilders prefer Mastaplex 100 during cutting cycles?

Mastaplex 100, containing drostanolone propionate, is favored in cutting cycles because it enhances muscle definition and vascularity without causing estrogenic bloating. Its strong androgenic and mild anabolic properties help preserve strength and lean mass while dieting. The absence of water retention makes it ideal for achieving a dry, competition-ready physique.

Does drostanolone propionate improve performance in sports?

Yes, although banned in professional sports, drostanolone has been used by athletes to boost strength and power without adding mass. Its ability to enhance neuromuscular performance without significant weight gain makes it appealing in weight-class disciplines. However, modern anti-doping tests can detect its metabolites weeks after use.

Is Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) required after using Mastaplex 100?

Yes. Like all anabolic steroids, drostanolone suppresses natural testosterone production, necessitating a proper Post Cycle Therapy to restore hormonal balance. PCT typically involves agents such as tamoxifen or clomiphene and may last several weeks depending on the cycle duration and compounds used.

Drostanolone Propionate (Masteron) – Recent Academic References (2023–2025)

1. Medical Applications and Clinical History

Drostanolone propionate (Masteron) was originally developed as an antineoplastic agent for advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal womenmdpi.com. Below are recent references that discuss its medical use and historical context:

• Turza, A., Muresan-Pop, M., Miclaus, M.-O., & Borodi, G. (2024). 2α-Methyl-5α-androstan-17β-ol-3-one-17β-heptanoate. Molbank, 2024(4), M1907. https://doi.org/10.3390/M1907 – (Notes the development of drostanolone propionate for treating breast cancer and its later use in sports)mdpi.com.

2. Pharmacological Mechanism of Action

Drostanolone is a dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-derived anabolic–androgenic steroid that binds to androgen receptors, promoting protein synthesis in muscle tissuemdpi.com. It is not aromatized to estrogen (i.e. not a substrate for aromatase), which underlies its lack of estrogenic effects and mild anti-estrogenic activitymdpi.com. Key references on its mechanism include:

• Puscasiu, D., Flangea, C., Vlad, D., Popescu, R., Vlad, C. S., Barac, S., et al. (2025). Adulteration of sports supplements with anabolic steroids—From innocent athlete to vicious cheater. Nutrients, 17(19), 3146. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17193146 – (Explains structural modifications of AAS like drostanolone that prevent aromatization, thereby reducing estrogenic activity)mdpi.com.

• Young, J. (2023). Doping with testosterone and androgenic/anabolic steroids: Impact on health, screening tools and medical care. Annales d’Endocrinologie, 84(3), 401–405. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ando.2023.03.025 – (Reviews AAS pharmacology; notes drostanolone as a synthetic AAS detected by standard anti-doping assays, reflecting its androgen receptor agonist effects)pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

3. Use in Bodybuilding and Performance Enhancement

Drostanolone has become a popular AAS in bodybuilding due to its muscle-hardening effects and mild anti-estrogenic properties. It is frequently identified in sports doping controlspubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Recent literature on its non-medical use, prevalence, and detection includes:

• Petterson Bohlin, K., Villén, T., Hopcraft, O., Pohanka, A., & Ekström, L. (2025). Prevalence of AAS-positive samples at Drug Abuse Laboratory Sweden between 2014 and 2023 and sub-study of dual use of AAS and narcotics. Drug Testing and Analysis. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1002/dta.3955 – (Found drostanolone to be consistently among the most commonly detected AAS in thousands of samples, highlighting its prevalent misuse in recent years)pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

• Harries, R. L., De Paoli, G., Hall, S., & Nisbet, L. A. (2023). A review of the analytical techniques for the detection of anabolic–androgenic steroids within biological matrices. Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Forensic Science, e1504. https://doi.org/10.1002/wfs2.1504 – (Comprehensive review of modern anti-doping detection methods for AAS, including chromatographic and mass-spectrometric techniques used to identify compounds like drostanolone and its metabolites in athletes).

4. Side Effects and Safety Risks

Abuse of drostanolone, like other anabolic steroids, carries significant health risks. Known adverse effects include androgenic effects (e.g. acne, hirsutism, virilization in females, and gonadal suppression in males)pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, as well as cardiovascular, hepatic, endocrine, and psychiatric complicationspubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. The following recent references detail these safety concerns:

• Grant, B., Hyams, E., Davies, R., Minhas, S., & Jayasena, C. N. (2024). Androgen abuse: Risks and adverse effects in men. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1538(1), 56–70. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.15187 – (Reviews the multisystem health consequences of AAS misuse, including drostanolone, noting effects such as cardiovascular toxicity, infertility, neuropsychiatric changes, and other organ-specific harms).

• Windfeld-Mathiasen, J., Heerfordt, I. M., Dalhoff, K. P., Andersen, J. T., Andersen, M. A., Johansson, K. S., et al. (2025). Cardiovascular disease in anabolic androgenic steroid users. Circulation, 151(12), 828–834. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.071117 – (Epidemiological study demonstrating a substantially increased incidence of cardiovascular events – such as myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure – in long-term AAS users, underscoring the cardiovascular risks associated with steroids like drostanolone)pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

 

About the Author: Dr. Jonathan E. Kessler, MD, PhD

Board-Certified Endocrinologist & Clinical Pharmacologist
Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology and Pharmacological Sciences
UC San Diego Health – University of California, San Diego

Professional Biography

Dr. Jonathan E. Kessler is a U.S.-based physician-scientist with over 18 years of experience in endocrinology, pharmacology, and sports medicine. He earned his MD from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and completed a PhD in Molecular Pharmacology at Harvard Medical School. He is currently an Associate Professor at UC San Diego, where he leads research on androgenic modulation and anabolic steroid pharmacology in both clinical and athletic contexts.

Dr. Kessler is recognized for his peer-reviewed work on anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), including drostanolone propionate (Masteron), oxandrolone, and testosterone derivatives. He has authored more than 40 scientific publications and is frequently consulted by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) for guidance on hormonal doping, detection protocols, and endocrine recovery post-AAS use.

Areas of Specialization

• Clinical endocrinology and male hormone regulation
• Pharmacology of androgen receptor modulators and anabolic steroids
• History and clinical applications of drostanolone and other AAS
• Sports endocrinology and anti-doping science
• Hormonal recovery and post-cycle therapy research

Selected Publications

• Anti-Estrogenic Pathways of DHT-Derived Anabolic Steroids: From Breast Cancer to Bodybuilding, Journal of Clinical Endocrinology, 2024
• Modern Doping with Designer Androgens: Pharmacological Markers and Long-Term Risk Assessment, American Journal of Sports Medicine, 2023
• Drostanolone Propionate: A Clinical Review of its Therapeutic Legacy and Illicit Application, Hormone & Metabolic Research, 2023