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02/27/09
So you’re ready to run your first steroid cycle? Before you do, let’s take a simple quiz. Below are seven concepts you need to fully understand before you should start your first cycle. You probably have a fairly good ida what some of these concepts are, but it’s better to completely clarify so you don’t make any costly mistakes. Feel free to conduct further research on any of these concepts you don’t fully understand.
Steroid
Any anabolic or androgenic compound which is injected into the body or consumed orally with the purpose of increasing muscle size or strength is called a steroid. Their effects may be temporary or permanent. Steroids are a controlled substance and therefore illegal for use by most Americans, unless you have a prescription written by a doctor. Many people locate steroids overseas via the internet and have their steroids mailed to them.
Cycle
Any period of time that you consistently use steroids is called a cycle. A single dose of steroids won’t do much for you. They need to be used from 4 to 12 weeks consistently to be effective. Longer cycles, such as permanent hormone dosing, are used in some patients lacking natural production. Most young, healthy steroid users should opt for a 3 month on, 2 months off schedule when using artificial hormones.
Stack
This is simply the use of 2 or more steroids at the same time. They have a synergistic effect when taken in conjunction with one another. This works both ways, however. You will enjoy the “1 + 1 = 3” positive synergy, but you’ll also have to deal with the increased likelihood of increased negative side effects.
Desired effects
Muscle and strength gain, as well as a decrease in body fat, are those result of taking steroids which are desired. Red blood cell count increases, joint pain subsides, energy levels spike, and sexual prowess certainly increases.
Side effects
There are the unintended consequences of taking steroids. These effects can include hair loss, acne, increased aggression, liver damage, and testosterone production shutdown. If you’re planning to start a family, the use of steroids should be postponed, as your natural sperm count will be decreased when you run artificial testosterone. The more effective a steroid is, the greater its side effects will be.
Mg
Injectable and oral steroids are measured in milligrams. An oral cycle of 50 to 200 mg per week is more than adequate. An injectable cycle of 400 to 1000 mg per week will usually suffice. Some users will go heavier, up to 2000 mg per week. Cycles of this intensity often lead to major negative side effects, as the recovery resources of your body are too busy fighting infection and side effects to actually allow for growth.
PCT
Post-cycle therapy involves the use of drugs to help prepare your body for the adjustment period that comes when steroid use is halted. Without PCT, your natural testosterone levels would come crashing down and your estrogen levels would spike, leaving you feeling weak, your muscles shrinking, and your estrogen levels through the roof, which would lead to Gynecomastia. PCT should be used following every steroid cycle.
