Steroids

Covid-19: Advices to Steroid Users

Published

4 years ago

December 10, 2020

Paul

If you think visiting the gym during the Covid period is a breeze, think again. Not now, not before a lasting solution for the virus is found. Covid-19 continues to wreak havoc worldwide. People no longer have the luxury of working out in groups or visiting public gyms. Like everyone else, Steroid users are not sure of the relationship between the virus and the drugs they take. Luckily for people already using steroids, you may have found a solution. Instead, your body may be able to fight the virus thanks to particular strains of corticosteroids. Medical experts are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to find solutions for Covid-19. That means exploring a range of treatment options, including possible treatment with systemic corticosteroids.

Steroids help people treat a range of conditions, specifically to manage pain and inflammation. However, most of the steroids used today are for bodybuilding, fitness, and performance enhancement.

Corticosteroids and Covid-19 Management: Dexamethasone

The World Health Organization has researched several types of steroids' effectiveness in managing Covid-19. The findings are inconclusive, but there is hope that steroids could help manage the virus better than traditional medicine. The most significant advantage of using corticosteroids for Covid treatment is that they have fewer side effects than regular clinical medication.

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In a July 17, 2020 research, the WHO evaluated corticosteroids versus ordinary Covid care for patients. Mortality data was made available by subgroup, i.e., severe and non-severe Covid cases. The drug was administered to both groups of patients, and we can say that the future is bright for steroids as a possible treatment option for Covid-19. One particular steroid caught the medical world's attention in this regard – Dexamethasone.

Dexamethasone

A popular steroid used to manage arthritis funds to help save the lives of critically ill people with the virus. Preliminary findings show that Dexamethasone could save ICU patients' lives by a third and those under oxygen only by a fifth. Dexamethasone is usually used to reduce pain and inflammation caused by autoimmune conditions and has been on the WHO's watch list to treat various conditions since the 1960s. However, patients not critically ill with the virus didn't receive significant benefits from using the drug.

The best thing about Dexamethasone in Covid treatment is that you don't have to sweat to find it. It is both accessible and affordable to people who would otherwise not access regular Covid-19 medication. Also, use Dexamethasone alongside other Covid-19 treatment options without exposing the patient to adverse reactions.

Although Dexamethasone is now widely used for this purpose, the WHO has not yet released final findings alongside clinical guidance on drug use. Once this is one, we will better understand this revolutionary intervention in managing the virus.

Related Article:: Steroid Acne in Men: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What Are Bodybuilders Afraid of?

Besides the fear of the virus, bodybuilders and fitness professionals are afraid of many other things related to Covid-19. Believe it or not, bodybuilders are now suffering from panic attacks caused by a virus that is billions of times smaller than them. And they are justified to fear it. It is difficult to fight an invisible enemy, which shifts the battleground to unfamiliar territory. Yes, unfamiliar territory, despite it being your own body. Here are a few things about the virus causing sleepless nights for bodybuilders.

Long-Term Effects

Covid-19 is feared not because it has a high mortality rate. It can be considered less dangerous than more than a dozen other diseases. What makes this particular virus dreadful is how it attacks the body. It comes in intensive waves that overwhelm people with relatively weak immune systems. Additionally, the virus has long-term effects that could accompany someone for a long. There have been reports that the virus leaves one's lungs working below the average capacity even after recovery.

That is particularly scary for people interested in fitness and bodybuilding because their lungs are the engine that drives them. For one to withstand long intensive workouts, their lungs must function exceptionally well. Covid threatens to take away this fundamental aspect of your hobby or career. It is probably why bodybuilders are more afraid of the disease than the rest of the population.

Must Read: 5 Fitness Tips While Gyms Are Closed

The High Probability of Catching It Outdoors

Bodybuilding and fitness is some contact sport involving working close to people. Additionally, there are many items, equipment, and surfaces bodybuilders share. That makes it risky to continue your routine as a bodybuilder or fitness person.

However, bodybuilders don't have a choice about where to work out in the current situation. Once you are locked in or your movement is restricted, the chances are that you may not end up visiting your usual workout spots. It may seem uncomfortable, but it is for the best. There is no point in catching the virus when you can transform your house and backyard into a gym. It may not be a world-class gym, but it will serve its purpose for the time being.

The Challenges of Working Indoors

For bodybuilders who are not used to working out at home, this period is most challenging for their lives and careers. Before the virus came, every bodybuilder had a plan and expectations tied to it. For most of them, working in groups or pairs achieves double the results compared to working independently. Everybody is now locked in their house to try and maintain normalcy in an abnormal world. It may take longer to adjust to the new normal, but there are a few options.

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Several bodybuilders have reported being unable to maintain bulk while working at home. Twin bodybuilder brothers Brian and Daniel Zhou have indicated that home workouts do not help them achieve the desired results in maintaining bulk. Sticking to their routine has been particularly difficult, partly because every other piece of equipment they use is now not within their reach. Daniel went as far as buying a pull-up bar to help him with back exercises. Still, that didn't seem to help him achieve the desired results. So he had to fill his backpack with water bottles to try and make it more intensive. The twins have been coming up with innovations here and there to ensure they are not disrespecting their routines.

Related Article:: 5 Home Gym Essentials To Build A Great Body

Every bodybuilder out there is going through a challenge that comes with deviating from their routine. Although some have successfully returned to their careers on track, many are still struggling to stay afloat. Some of them will have lost form and focus in the long run, which is a terrifying thought for every bodybuilder and fitness person.

Lack of Competition

Although bodybuilders can monitor their bodybuilding progress and determine if their form is improving, stagnating, or deteriorating, they need competition. Competition helps keep a bodybuilder on their toes regarding training and dieting. Some of them might become complacent and lose form without competition and contests. Most bodybuilders are scared of that happening and are trying their best to compete with themselves until the pandemic is overcome.

The community at the gym does a lot for the bodybuilder. A gym is more than just a place to lift weights. You need people around to boost your morale. Most importantly, it would help if you had more experience than you to point directions for you. That means evoking a gym at home is no small task for any bodybuilder.

Dieting is A Problem

With the pandemic's onset and persistence, most bodybuilders are increasingly finding it difficult to stick to their dieting programs. The Covid crisis has affected virtually every aspect of the economy. Bodybuilders are now finding it hard to get their superfoods and other supplements. The lack of critical bodybuilding stuff threatens a bodybuilder's form.

Must Read:: The Correct Diet Plan That Complements Your Bodybuilding Cycle!

Guidelines for Steroid Use During the Covid Period

While the coronavirus pandemic has affected how one does their bodybuilding and fitness workouts, but not your steroid intake, steroid users are in three groups; those infected, recovering, or uninfected. So, what should you or not do about steroids in either group? We have prepared a few guidelines for you.

Don't stop taking your steroid tablets.

Suppose you happen to contract covid-19. If you are in home-based care, you should let your doctor know you are taking steroids before they start prescribing other drugs. Getting all the information you need about taking steroids alongside regular medication in the hospital is a bit easy. However, remember that this is a relatively new virus that not even medics know much about. Everything ongoing right now concerning treatment is merely experimentation. What we are sure about is that most modern medications have not been entirely successful n managing it. In any case, we often talk about managing the condition rather than managing it. You never know; maybe the steroids you use could be the ultimate Covid-19 treatment.

Covid-19 Complications

Covid-19 is continually causing new complications as the strains of the virus increase. That means you may not know if you are suffering from covid-19. If you develop conditions that warrant you to use steroids, such as joint pains and inflammation, don't be quick to use them. Instead, consult your rheumatology team or doctor first. Get checked by a doctor to know what you are ailing from. In the unfortunate event that you turn out to be Covid-19 positive, the doctor will decide whether you should include corticosteroids in your treatment or not. You can suggest using approved corticosteroids such as Dexamethasone for your treatment, but it will be for them to decide. If your condition is unclear, the doctor can give you a steroid injection as a last resort option. While doing so, they should give you the lowest possible dose to avoid aggravating the condition further.

How to take Steroids during Covid-19?

Always take steroids and other Covid management drugs interchangeably. If you stopped taking steroids more than a month before contracting Covid-19, you don't need to use them now unless your doctor suggests it. You only use them alongside the other drugs provided if you tested positive while still using them or within less than a month of stopping their use. That precaution is essential because you never know which Covid-19 management drugs cause an adverse reaction when combined with steroids. Most importantly, ensure the steroid dosage is always the lowest possible.

Immunosuppressant drugs and steroids

Take plenty of immunosuppressant drugs and steroids l because you may need to reduce your immune system in the face of incurable viral diseases. Suppressing your immune system is the best chance you have against diseases like Covid-19, especially if you're a steroid person. The reason is that the drugs treat and prevent the virus's hyper-inflammatory phase, which usually becomes fatal after a short time. Although these drugs may prove harmful when they reduce your response to the virus, it is still a viable option, given that the virus can even kill hours after contracting it.

Conclusion

Steroids have received negative coverage by the media because of their perceived harmful effects on users. However, scientists have debunked most of the myths associated with steroids. There haven't been any reports about the negative effect of steroids on people suffering from Covid-19. Instead, the drugs have been found to treat viral diseases like the case of Dexamethasone. The only you should be careful about is balancing between corticosteroids and other Covid drugs.

Additionally, you may have to make changes to your steroid intake, like the dosage and frequency of use, to avoid jamming your system with too much of it. Otherwise, you are free to continue using your steroids if you contract the virus, not only to get the usual benefits but also to treat the virus as well possibly. Until the pandemic is contained, be safe and keep practicing. We want to see your best form when you finally come out.

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Steroids

Creatine vs Myostatin: An Expert’s Analysis

Published

2 weeks ago

March 20, 2025

Sane

Myostatin, a protein encoded by the MSTN gene, acts as a regulator of muscle growth. High levels of myostatin limit the body's ability to build muscle, effectively putting a cap on potential hypertrophy. Inhibiting myostatin has become a focal point for bodybuilders looking to break through plateaus and achieve significant muscle gains. The question is: can creatine, a popular and widely available supplement, help in this regard?

Medical History of Myostatin and Creatine

Myostatin and creatine, while popular now in the bodybuilding world, have their roots in entirely different contexts:

Myostatin: Natural Muscle Growth Regulator

Myostatin is a protein originally identified for its role in regulating skeletal muscle mass. In nature, it serves an evolutionary purpose: by limiting muscle growth, it conserves energy, ensuring that animals (and humans) don’t expend unnecessary resources maintaining excessive muscle tissue. This was especially important in the wild, where energy efficiency could mean the difference between survival and extinction.

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In the medical field, research into myostatin has focused on its role in muscle-wasting diseases. Scientists are exploring ways to inhibit myostatin to treat conditions like muscular dystrophy, where excessive muscle loss impairs quality of life. This therapeutic potential is where the idea of myostatin inhibition first began—long before bodybuilders latched onto the concept.

Creatine: Energy and Medical Applications

Creatine was originally studied for its role in energy metabolism. It’s a naturally occurring compound stored in muscle cells and plays a critical part in replenishing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency during short, high-intensity activities.

Before becoming a bodybuilding staple, creatine gained recognition in medical and sports science for its ability to improve athletic performance and assist with recovery. Furthermore, in medicine, creatine was investigated for neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and muscular dystrophy, given its potential to improve muscle function and brain energy metabolism.

In the sports world, it was initially adopted by sprinters and weightlifters in the 1970s and 1980s for its energy-enhancing benefits.

Both myostatin and creatine have found new life in bodybuilding circles, demonstrating how discoveries in natural physiology and medical science can lead to transformative applications in fitness.

Benefits of Creatine as a Myostatin Inhibitor

Muscle Growth Potential: Research suggests that creatine, when paired with intense resistance training, may inhibit myostatin to a degree, fostering an environment for enhanced muscle growth.

Improved Exercise Performance: Creatine is well-known for its ability to increase ATP production, translating to better performance during high-intensity activities.

Versatility Across Fitness Levels

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, creatine offers benefits that complement various stages of muscle-building.

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Affordability and Accessibility

Compared to specialized myostatin inhibitors like YK-11 and ACE-031, creatine is significantly more affordable and accessible.

Side Effects of Creatine

While generally safe for most individuals, creatine supplementation does come with some potential side effects:

Water Retention: Some users experience bloating due to increased water retention in muscle cells.

Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses may lead to stomach upset or diarrhea.

Kidney Concerns: Although rare, prolonged excessive use could strain the kidneys, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions.

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Alternatives to Creatine for Myostatin Inhibition

YK-11: A synthetic myostatin inhibitor derived from SARMs, offering more potent results but accompanied by more significant risks.

ACE-031: A peptide that directly inhibits myostatin, though it remains in experimental phases and is not legally approved in many regions.

Natural Alternatives

Follistatin-rich Foods: Eggs and dairy products may have natural myostatin-inhibiting properties.

Resistance Training: Intense and consistent weightlifting alone can naturally lower myostatin levels.

Where to Buy Creatine

Creatine is readily available worldwide. It can be purchased from:

Local Pharmacies and Nutrition Stores: Ideal for trusted and immediate access.

Online Platforms: Websites like Amazon, iHerb, or bodybuilding-specific stores offer a variety of brands and formulations.

Supplement Brands: Well-established brands such as Optimum Nutrition, MyProtein, and Cellucor often carry high-quality creatine.

Legality of Myostatin Inhibitors

Creatine: Creatine is completely legal and widely accepted as a dietary supplement.

YK-11 and ACE-031: These compounds exist in a legal gray area in many countries due to their experimental nature and potential risks. It's essential to research local laws before considering these options.

Best Stores and Suppliers

For reputable products, consider:

Transparent Labs: Known for purity and transparent labeling.

Optimum Nutrition: Offers pharmaceutical-grade creatine monohydrate.

Bulk Supplements: A great choice for bulk buyers seeking affordability and quality.

Our Advice to Bodybuilders

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are already using AAS or other advanced compounds.

Prioritize a balanced diet and consistent exercise routine. Supplements like creatine work best as part of a holistic approach to fitness.

Stay hydrated while using creatine to minimize water retention side effects and support kidney health.

Related Article: Best Syringes for Steroid Injection on Amazon

Overall

While creatine may not be as potent a myostatin inhibitor as advanced compounds like YK-11 or ACE-031, its affordability, safety, and accessibility make it a valuable addition to any bodybuilder's supplement stack. By leveraging its benefits alongside proper training and nutrition, you can maximize muscle growth and overcome plateaus, regardless of your fitness level.

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Steroids

Raloxifene (Evista) 101: A Non-Surgical Solution for Gyno

Published

3 weeks ago

March 11, 2025

Sane

Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), is one of the most valuable yet less common options available today. Originally developed to prevent and treat breast cancer similar to Tamoxifen, it has gained popularity among bodybuilders seeking to prevent or eliminate gyno.

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Unlike Tamoxifen, Raloxifene is potent enough to reduce long-standing gynecomastia and is frequently used to reverse pubertal gynecomastia. While it can also boost testosterone levels, it is one of the weaker SERMs in this regard.

How it Works

Raloxifene functions by blocking estrogen receptors in the breasts, which helps prevent or treat both gynecomastia and breast cancer. Additionally, it blocks estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, stimulating testosterone production.

Beyond these primary benefits, Raloxifene can enhance bone mass, combat osteoporosis, and lower cholesterol levels.

Potential Side Effects

While Raloxifene is considered a generally safe and effective medication, like all drugs, it comes with its own set of potential side effects. One of the most notable is the reduction in Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. IGF-1 plays a key role in muscle growth and repair, so decreased levels could potentially impact athletic performance or recovery.

However, compared to other medications in its class, Raloxifene has a relatively low risk of causing severe liver toxicity. Users are less likely to experience harmful effects such as blood clots, mood swings, or sexual dysfunction, making it a preferable choice for many.

While rare, some users might experience less serious side effects such as hot flashes, leg cramps, or flu-like symptoms. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to monitor any adverse reactions and ensure the medication is being used safely.

So, despite its efficacy, Raloxifene is not without side effects, but they are typically manageable and less severe compared to other SERMs.

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For gyno reversal, the typical protocol involves taking 60mg daily for 1-2 weeks, followed by 30mg daily for up to 3 months or until the condition resolves.

Typical Protocol

For gynecomastia reversal, the typical protocol involves taking 60mg of Raloxifene per day for 1-2 weeks, followed by a reduced dose of 30mg per day for up to 3 months or until the gynecomastia is resolved. In post-cycle therapy (PCT), bodybuilders generally take 60mg per day for 4-6 weeks, and then lower the dose to 30mg per day during the last week. Raloxifene is highly effective for managing gynecomastia and supporting post-cycle recovery, making it a valuable addition to a well-optimized bodybuilding regimen.

Overall

Raloxifene (Evista) is a versatile SERM used to treat breast cancer and is popular among bodybuilders for managing gynecomastia (gyno). Unlike Tamoxifen, it effectively shrinks long-standing gyno and reverses pubertal gyno. It blocks estrogen receptors in the breast and hypothalamus, thus preventing gyno and promoting Testosterone secretion. Additionally, it improves bone mass, combats osteoporosis, and lowers cholesterol levels. For gyno, take 60mg/day for 1-2 weeks, then 30mg/day for up to 3 months. For post-cycle therapy (PCT), take 60mg/day for 4-6 weeks, then reduce to 30mg/day during the final week. This safe and effective medication has minimal side effects.

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Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

1 month ago

March 1, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle that requires dedication, discipline, and a thorough understanding of fitness principles. As the world of fitness continues to evolve, bodybuilders must stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and scientific advancements to achieve their goals. In 2025, several innovative approaches are redefining bodybuilding. Here are essential fitness tips for bodybuilders to excel this year.

Embrace Technology-Driven Workouts

In 2025, technology plays a significant role in bodybuilding. Wearable devices, fitness apps, and virtual reality (VR) training are now integral components of an effective workout regimen.

Wearable Devices

Modern wearables track everything from heart rate and sleep patterns to muscle activation and caloric expenditure. Utilize these devices to monitor your progress and make data-driven adjustments to your training and nutrition plans.

Fitness Apps

Leverage fitness apps for customized workout plans, progress tracking, and virtual coaching. Many apps now incorporate artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations.

Virtual Reality Training

VR technology offers immersive workout experiences, allowing bodybuilders to simulate different training environments and scenarios. This can enhance motivation and add variety to your routine.

Focus on Functional Strength

While hypertrophy (muscle growth) remains a primary goal, functional strength is gaining importance. Functional strength training improves overall performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances daily activities.

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Compound Movements

Incorporate compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These movements engage multiple muscle groups and joints, promoting balanced strength development.

Core Stability

Prioritize exercises that strengthen the core, such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. A strong core supports better lifting mechanics and reduces the risk of lower back injuries.

Optimize Nutrition for Muscle Growth and Recovery

Nutrition is the cornerstone of successful bodybuilding. In 2025, the focus is on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual needs and goals.

Protein Intake

Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair and growth. Aim for 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on your training intensity and goals.

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Nutrient Timing

Pay attention to nutrient timing to maximize muscle recovery and growth. Consume protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes post-workout to replenish glycogen stores and kickstart muscle repair.

Supplements

Utilize supplements wisely. Creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and omega-3 fatty acids are popular choices for enhancing performance and recovery.

Prioritize Mental Health and Mindfulness

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall fitness. Incorporating mindfulness practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance performance.

Meditation

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can enhance your mind-muscle connection during workouts.

Visualization

Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse your workouts. Visualizing successful lifts and achieving your goals can boost confidence and motivation.

Rest and Recovery

Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and overtraining. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and incorporate rest days into your training schedule.

Leverage Advanced Training Techniques

Advanced training techniques can help break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth. In 2025, several methods are gaining popularity among bodybuilders.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: BFR involves restricting blood flow to the muscles during low-intensity exercises. This technique can enhance muscle growth and strength without the need for heavy weights.

Eccentric Training: Focus on the eccentric (lowering) phase of exercises. Eccentric training can stimulate greater muscle damage and growth compared to traditional concentric movements.

Periodization: Implement periodization into your training plan. Varying the intensity, volume, and type of exercises can prevent plateaus and ensure continuous progress.

Incorporate Recovery and Mobility Work

Recovery and mobility are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining optimal performance. In 2025, bodybuilders are paying more attention to these aspects of training.

Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release: Use foam rollers and massage balls to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular myofascial release can reduce soreness and enhance recovery.

Stretching: Incorporate dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching after workouts. Stretching improves range of motion and prevents muscle imbalances.

Cryotherapy and Hydrotherapy: Explore recovery techniques like cryotherapy (cold therapy) and hydrotherapy (water therapy) to reduce inflammation and accelerate muscle recovery.

Engage in Continuous Learning and Community Building

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for success. Engage in continuous learning and connect with the bodybuilding community for support and motivation.

Educational Resources: Read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to stay updated on the latest research and trends in bodybuilding.

Community Engagement: Join online forums, social media groups, and local bodybuilding clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge with fellow bodybuilders can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Professional Guidance: Consider working with a certified personal trainer or coach. Professional guidance can help you optimize your training and nutrition plans, ensuring you're on the right track.

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Conclusion

In 2025, bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it's a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses technology, nutrition, mental health, and advanced training techniques. By embracing these fitness tips, bodybuilders can achieve their goals, stay injury-free, and enjoy a fulfilling fitness journey. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in bodybuilding. Stay committed, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.