Epistane

Epistane, also known by its chemical name methylepitiostanol, is a synthetic, orally active anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS). It is a derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Other names it is known by include Hemapolin, Havoc, and Epi Plex. Epistane was first developed in the 1970s but was never marketed for medical use. In the United States, it has been a controlled substance since the 2014 Designer Anabolic Steroid Control Act. It is also banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Benefits

• Increased lean muscle mass.

• Increased strength and athletic performance.

• Promotes weight loss.

Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: Epistane is a 17$\alpha$-alkylated compound, which means it is modified to be orally active. This modification can be toxic to the liver and may cause cholestasis, a condition where bile flow from the liver is reduced or blocked.

• Androgenic side effects: These can include acne, hair loss (in genetically predisposed individuals), and suppression of natural testosterone production.

• Cardiovascular strain: AAS use can increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and negative changes in cholesterol levels.

• Other side effects: Epistane can also cause elevated levels of cholic acid conjugates and may cause testicular atrophy and reduced libido due to testosterone suppression.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Anabolic effects: Epistane is known for its ability to promote muscle growth and strength gains.

• Oral administration: Its oral activity makes it convenient to use.

• Anti-estrogenic properties: Unlike some other anabolic steroids that convert to estrogen, Epistane has anti-estrogenic effects, which can prevent estrogen-related side effects like gynecomastia (enlarged male breast tissue).

Cons:

• Illegality: It is a controlled substance in many countries, including the US, and is banned in competitive sports.

• Hepatotoxicity: The potential for liver damage is a significant risk.

• Lack of scientific evidence: There is limited scientific research on the safety and efficacy of Epistane, as it was never developed for medical use. Most information is anecdotal or from recreational use.

• Testosterone suppression: Like other anabolic steroids, it can shut down the body's natural production of testosterone, requiring a post-cycle therapy (PCT) to restore hormone levels.

Dosage and Frequency There is no medically established dosage or frequency for Epistane. However, based on anecdotal reports from the bodybuilding community, typical dosages range from 30 to 50 mg per day. Cycles typically last for 4 to 6 weeks.

Half-life and Detection Time The half-life and detection time of Epistane are not definitively established in scientific literature. However, like other oral anabolic steroids, its half-life is likely short (hours), but its metabolites can be detected in urine for an extended period. The detection window can vary widely depending on the dosage, duration of use, individual metabolism, and the sensitivity of the drug test, but it is generally weeks to a few months.

Sterogenic, Progestogenic, and Prolactin Effects Epistane is a derivative of DHT, and therefore, it is not progestogenic or estrogenic. It does not aromatize (convert to estrogen) and, in fact, has anti-estrogenic properties. It is not known to have a direct impact on prolactin levels. However, because it is an anabolic-androgenic steroid, its use can cause a drop in natural testosterone, which can indirectly affect other hormones in the body.

Anabolic and Androgenic Ratio The anabolic-androgenic ratio is a way to measure a steroid's effects on muscle building (anabolic) versus its effects on male characteristics (androgenic). For Epistane, the reported anabolic-to-androgenic ratio is approximately 1100:91, indicating a very high anabolic effect relative to its androgenic effect. This ratio is based on in-vitro studies and does not necessarily translate directly to real-world effects.