GENERIC NAME: OXYMETHOLONE - ORAL (ox-i-METH-oh-lone)

BRAND NAME(S): Anadrol

Warning | Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: This medication may rarely cause serious, sometimes life-threatening liver problems including cysts, tumors, or liver failure. Tell your doctor immediately if you have dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue. In addition, this medication may affect your cholesterol level and increase your risk of heart disease (atherosclerosis) or blood vessel problems.

USES: This medication is a synthetic male hormone (androgen or anabolic steroid) used to treat a low red blood cell count (anemia). It works by increasing the amount of the hormone (erythropoietin) involved in the production of red blood cells. Due to the risk of serious, possibly life-threatening side effects, this medication must not be used to improve athletic performance or physical appearance. Oxymetholone does not enhance athletic ability. When used as directed under medical supervision, the risks are minimal.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat an allergic swelling condition (hereditary angioedema).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. It may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed since the risk of side effects may be increased. It may take between 3-6 months before a benefit from this medication occurs.

SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warnings. Diarrhea, excitation, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, swelling of the ankles/feet, unusual or rapid weight gain, trouble breathing, decreased/increased interest in sex, new or worsening acne. Males before puberty - tell your doctor immediately if any of these signs of maturation occur while taking this drug: enlargement of the penis, more frequent erections. Adult males - tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: hair loss, trouble urinating, changes in testicle size, impotence, breast tenderness/swelling. Males - in the unlikely event you have a painful, prolonged erection, stop using this drug and seek immediate medical attention or permanent problems could occur. Females (both young girls and women) may experience signs of masculinization. These changes may be irreversible. Discuss the risks and benefits of therapy with your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if the following serious side effects occur: deepening of the voice/hoarseness, facial hair growth, new or worsening acne, clitoral enlargement, menstrual period changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.