Steroids

Steps / Tips to Keep in Shape Your Muscle Mass After Steroid Cycles.

Published

6 years ago

March 30, 2019

Paul

The most question which is discussed among all bodybuilders and those who use steroids is if you can keep the muscle mass after you stop your steroid cycles. Unluckily, or not, the answer to this question is no.

How Effective are Anabolic Steroids At Making Muscular Mass?

The anabolic steroids, which are also known as AAS (Anabolic Androgenic Steroids) are drugs which have effects and properties similar to a hormone of the body known as testosterone. They enhance the protein in cells, particularly in the skeletal muscles, by changing the regular production of protein.

Here is the reason why you become so muscular on the steroids: even the smallest steroid cycle can increase the level of testosterone far beyond a normal range. This actually means that the ability of your body to create muscular mass gets multiplied.

In fact, a user becomes like a superman as compared to those who do it naturally. Whilst your successful cycle, it is very common to gain 7 kg or 151 lbs. or even more of your actual muscular mass. Obviously, during the cycle, these gains slow down at a point as your organs and androgen receptor get burnt out.

A lot of steroid users also like to consider that their bodies are more due to their hard work than steroids, however, this is totally false.

Yep, it requires hard work for building the top-tier body but it takes a large number of drugs also. A reason for this is very simple: you can build a lot of muscular mass and become very lean naturally. However before talking about the natural limits of muscular growth and weight loss, here is a brief description of the power of steroids.

Don’t boggle your brain with those numbers but do consider them: it is predicted by the highly accurate models of the natural muscular growth that a man can gain not more than 20 – 25 pounds during the start of weightlifting (while a woman can gain half of it). So, by a right steroid cycle along with diet regimen and training, you can perform in only 2 - 4 months, for what a year is needed to accomplish naturally.

Must Read: 10 Amazing Steroid Cycles to Run in 2019

Reaching The Genetic Potential

While many Satanists around you want you to believe in a thing that you can become God, but the truth is that it is not possible. A famous actor, Will Smith said in one of his well-known interviews that 2 + 2 is equal whatever you want it to equal. It shows a belief that man is very powerful himself. The same kind of statements are equal to this saying is that you can beat gravity or can live 300 years. But, this is unnatural and obviously won’t happen ever!

This same limitation rule applied to build muscles. There exist two limits about the muscle fiber creation – the steroid limit and the natural limit.

And this is how it works. Sorry, but ego and work sickness doesn’t change the facts for you. You can opt to ignore these limits, but he would be the same as ignoring the presence of the gravity or a need for sleep.

What Happens With Your Body After Steroid Cycles?

Thus, let’s suppose that you decide to take the bullet and risk your life. You chose what you want to complete your anabolic steroids course. Also, you takes them all and follow the advice of your trainer at the gym. You know how to take them and when to take them. Bingo!

Unluckily, but, as the moment comes when your mind changes and you choose to stop your steroid cycle, things won’t remain that simple. You must never simply stop, getting rid of steroids isn’t going to be that simple.

This can make your whole process the wastage of time and very risky because of few very dangerous side effects of the anabolic steroids like Winstrol, HGH, Dianabol and some others like:

Sustanon effects
Tren effects
Clenbuterol effects
Deca effects
Anavar effects
Dianabol effects
Anadrol effects
Winstrol effects

How To keep the Muscular Gains after steroid Cycle?

You can keep your muscular gains after a cycle through post cycle therapy.

Post Cycle Therapy: Products

It can be of great advantage to fulfill the second course called the post cycle therapy (PCT) soon after you have completed the steroid cycle. No one wants to face the crash after the cycle gets completed. PCT is usually used for describing the crash in the natural production of your hormones after the steroid cycle ends.

PCT involves the strategy which few bodybuilders utilize for successfully retaining the gains after the steroid cycle. The PCT has incorporated also for restoring the hormones of your body back to your normal range after your testosterone level becomes suppressed.

Find it here:

Catabolic = Low Testosterone

If a user of steroids doesn’t use an extreme cycle along with bug doses, he may not end up using the PCT and running for retaining his gains after cycle. But, if he runs a quite aggressive cycle having harsh steroids like tren or Anadrol – PCT would be the best option for him.

The standard PCT program generally comprises of taking the testosterone boosters like D-aspartic acid, maca, and/or tongkat ali. Bodybuilders use these in a small amount for raising the natural levels of testosterone back up to normal range. As the production of testosterone truly shuts down, you may often experience: less energy, fatigue, feeling quite low and lower sex drive.

As you use Trenorol or Anavar, for instance, your body stops producing the hormones naturally. This shows that as you stop using steroids, you experience a gap when no hormones are produced or enter into your body artificially. This can lead to low levels of the androgens and normal levels of the corticosteroids.

Because of the imbalance of the androgens for counteracting your muscle eating or catabolic effects of the corticosteroid, the newly formed muscular tissues may start to disappear. A body should recognize this problem and start to produce natural hormones again, however, by then this damage may have been done already.

Best Steroids for Keeping Gains (After Cutting the Cycle)

Following are the best steroids for keeping gains after you cut the cycle:

Winstrol (this is an only steroid here which can result in a significant leaner muscular gain)
Anavar

Find it here: https://www.whatsteroids.com/cb-anavar

Clenbuterol

Find it here: https://www.whatsteroids.com/cb-Clenbuterol

The contradiction of temporary and permanent gains usually falls onto the topic of the bulking steroids. A lot of people use these steroids and seem big on-cycle, however, shrink after cycle. It is because of some steroids resulting in water retention. It means that the muscles fill up temporarily with water (which makes them look fuller than they are in actual), which diminishes after cycle.

Thus, for keeping the strength and size gains after cycle, you need to use the dry steroids – the steroids which don’t result in water retention. By using the steroids which don’t result in the fluid retention, you can easily retain your gains even after the cycle – you can keep up to 30 lbs. On the other hand, if you use a high dose of wet steroids such as Anadrol; you may gain up to 50lbs, however you may lose half of your weight as you cut your cycle.

Best Steroids For Keeping Gains (After the Bulking Cycle)

Following are the best steroids for keeping gains after you take the bulking cycle:

Testosterone

Find it here: https://www.whatsteroids.com/cb-testomax

Trenbolone

Find it here: https://www.whatsteroids.com/cb-trenbolone

Generally, testosterone results in a bit of water retention, as compared to the bulking steroids like Anadrol and Dianabol. Likewise, trenbolone doesn’t result from you in holding any of the fluid weight. That means that you nearly keep all the gains even after bulking.

Trenbolone is a kind of diuretic, means that you lose fluid weight during your steroid cycle. Thus, your muscle fullness and strength may actually rise after you take tren; because of more intracellular fluid retention. Tren and test both are very powerful steroids which can make you super aesthetic; as you get ripped while getting on size – instead of being puffy and fat.

Which Steroids Can Save You from “Shrinking” After Cycle?

Steroids which shut down you hardly and cause the retention of a large amount of the fluid are those which you must avoid if you don’t like to be shrink after cycle. Following are some of the highly famous steroids that people use nowadays along with their performance for keeping your gains after cycle:

Anadrol – Poor
Deca – Moderate
Dianabol – Moderate
Testosterone – Good
Trenbolone – Excellent

Conclusion

Regardless of what is told to you, you can never keep the steroid gains after cycle. There are a lot of people who claim that they have done it, however, they are liars, steroid sellers or stupid basically. Even pros get downsized vastly after you stop taking the steroids.

By the end, you always pay price for your actions. You may lie only to yourself and others, but not to nature. You must understand the usage and after-effects of steroids before using them and plan everything beforehand.

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Steroids

Decoding IGF-1 LR3: A Guide to its Benefits

Published

2 weeks ago

April 25, 2025

Sane

IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long Arg3) is a synthetic variant of IGF-1, a hormone produced by the liver in response to growth hormone (GH). Unlike GH, which works indirectly, IGF-1 directly facilitates the growth and repair of muscle cells.

Related Article: Ostarine for Beginners; The Ultimate Guide

This modified version of IGF-1 is engineered to avoid binding with IGF-binding proteins, extending its half-life to 20–30 hours. As a result, it remains active in the body significantly longer than natural IGF-1.

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Many performance athletes incorporate IGF-1 LR3 post-workout to enhance muscle growth, speed up recovery, and support fat loss. When injected into specific muscle groups, it often produces localized effects. Additionally, it helps with nutrient distribution and, in some cases, improves insulin sensitivity.

On the other hand, human growth hormone (HGH) operates more broadly and indirectly, stimulating the liver to produce IGF-1 and offering more systemic benefits such as improved skin health, joint support, and fat reduction, albeit at a slower pace.

Typical IGF-1 LR3 doses range from 20–50 mcg daily, administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly, often following a workout.

Key Features of IGF-1 LR3

Enhanced Bioavailability: It avoids binding with IGF-binding proteins, increasing its potency.

Muscle Growth & Repair: Directly stimulates muscle cell proliferation and differentiation.

Improved Nutrient Distribution: Helps shuttle nutrients into muscle cells, supporting recovery.

Potential Fat Loss Benefits: Some users report improved insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism.

Mechanism of Action

IGF-1 LR3 interacts with IGF-1 receptors on muscle cells, activating pathways like PI3K-AKT and MAPK, which are crucial for cell growth and regeneration. This makes it a powerful tool for bodybuilders and athletes looking to optimize recovery and muscle development.

What Are the Top 10 Alternatives to IGF-1 LR3?

Here are some of the top alternatives to IGF-1 LR3, each with unique benefits for muscle growth, recovery, and performance:

BPC-157 – Known for its regenerative properties, it enhances healing and tissue repair.

CJC-1295 – A growth hormone-releasing peptide that boosts GH levels for muscle development.

Ipamorelin – Stimulates GH release with minimal side effects, making it a safer option.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) – A potent GH secretagogue that promotes muscle growth and fat loss.

Sermorelin – Encourages natural GH production, supporting recovery and lean muscle gains.

Tesamorelin – Primarily used for fat loss, but also aids in muscle preservation.

Follistatin-344 – Inhibits myostatin, allowing for increased muscle hypertrophy.

PEG-MGF (Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor) – Enhances muscle repair and growth post-exercise.

GHRP-6 – Stimulates appetite and GH release, supporting muscle mass gains.

GHRP-2 – Similar to GHRP-6 but with fewer hunger-related side effects.

Each of these peptides has distinct mechanisms and benefits.

Must Read: Are Nootropics a Better Option to AAS?

Potential Risks Associated With IGF-1 LR3

IGF-1 LR3 comes with several potential risks, especially for bodybuilders using it to enhance muscle growth. Here are some key concerns:

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) – IGF-1 LR3 increases glucose uptake in muscle cells, which can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels if not managed properly.

Organ Growth – Since IGF-1 affects all tissues, excessive use may lead to unwanted growth in organs, increasing health risks.

Cancer Risk – IGF-1 plays a role in cell proliferation, and elevated levels have been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.

Water Retention & Edema – Some users experience bloating and fluid retention, which can affect performance and aesthetics.

Joint Pain & Stiffness – Excessive IGF-1 levels may contribute to joint discomfort due to increased tissue growth.

Cardiovascular Issues – There is some concern that IGF-1 LR3 could contribute to heart enlargement or other cardiovascular complications.

Desensitization – Long-term use may reduce the body's natural IGF-1 production, leading to dependency

Overall

IGF-1 LR3's ability to bypass IGF-binding proteins makes it more potent but also increases the likelihood of desensitization with prolonged use. For those considering it, careful dosing and monitoring are crucial to mitigate side effects.

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Steroids

AOD-9604: The Fat-Burning Peptide Explained

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2025

Sane

AOD-9604, along with the similar HGH Frag 176-191, is a peptide derived from Growth Hormone that includes only the amino acids in HGH responsible for stimulating fat breakdown, known as lipolysis.

This means that these peptides offer the fat-burning benefits of HGH without its other effects—whether beneficial or adverse—and come at a lower cost.

Related Article: Anavar Cycle for Men and Women

Lipolysis refers to the process where fat cells are broken down to be utilized as energy. AOD-9604 promotes accelerated fat loss by increasing the body's use of fat as fuel.

For optimal results, the peptides should be used in a fasted state. AOD-9604 and Frag 176-191 are most effective when administered at a dose of 125-250mcg before bedtime (at least 3-4 hours after eating) and in the morning at the same dose, followed by a fasting period of 3-4 hours, ideally combined with fasted cardio.

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Similar Peptides with Fat-Burning Effect

Here’s a list of 10 peptides similar to AOD-9604, each with a brief description:

Ipamorelin: A growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP) that stimulates the natural release of growth hormone, promoting fat loss, muscle growth, and improved recovery without affecting other hormones like cortisol or prolactin.

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CJC-1295: A peptide that increases growth hormone and IGF-1 levels, aiding in fat loss, muscle gain, and improved sleep quality. It has a long half-life, making it convenient for users.

HGH Frag 176-191: A fragment of human growth hormone specifically designed for fat-burning. It targets adipose tissue without the broader effects of full-length HGH.

Tesamorelin: Known for reducing visceral fat, this peptide stimulates the release of growth hormone and is often used for weight management and metabolic health.

BPC-157: While primarily known for healing and recovery, BPC-157 can support fat loss indirectly by improving gut health and reducing inflammation.

Melanotan II: Originally developed for skin tanning, it also has appetite-suppressing properties, making it useful for weight management.

Thymosin Beta-4 (TB-500): Focused on healing and recovery, it can enhance physical performance and indirectly support fat loss through improved activity levels.

GHRP-6: A growth hormone-releasing peptide that boosts appetite and metabolism, aiding in muscle growth and fat loss.

Semaglutide: A GLP-1 receptor agonist that regulates appetite and blood sugar levels, making it effective for weight loss and metabolic health.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren): A growth hormone secretagogue that increases growth hormone and IGF-1 levels, promoting fat loss, muscle gain, and improved recovery.

List of Peptides With a Counteractive Effect Bodybuilders Must Avoid

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Some peptides can inadvertently lead to fat gain due to their effects on metabolism and appetite regulation. Here are a few that bodybuilders might want to avoid or use cautiously:

GHRP-6 – While it stimulates growth hormone release, it also significantly increases appetite, which can lead to excess calorie consumption and fat gain.
IGF-1 LR3 – This peptide enhances muscle growth but can also promote fat storage if not carefully managed with diet and training.
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) – Though technically a growth hormone secretagogue rather than a peptide, it boosts GH levels but often leads to increased hunger and potential fat accumulation.
CJC-1295 with DAC – While effective for muscle growth, its prolonged GH release can sometimes lead to unwanted fat retention if not paired with a strict diet

Overall

AOD-9604, derived from Growth Hormone, stimulates fat-burning by targeting lipolysis—the breakdown of fat for energy. It delivers these benefits without the additional effects of Growth Hormone, making it more cost-effective. For maximum effectiveness, it should be administered in a fasted state, ideally before bed and again in the morning at 125-250mcg doses. Pairing its use with fasting and fasted cardio can further enhance fat loss. Its sole focus is on improving the body’s ability to burn fat efficiently.

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Understanding Trenbolone-Induced Cough (“Tren Cough”)

Published

1 month ago

April 7, 2025

Sane

Trenbolone, a potent anabolic steroid, can sometimes cause “tren cough”—a sudden and intense coughing episode shortly after injection. Although not exclusive to Trenbolone, it is more commonly associated with this substance due to its highly irritant nature.

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Mechanisms Behind Tren Cough

Solvent and Carrier Irritation

Trenbolone formulations often include volatile solvents like benzyl alcohol or benzyl benzoate, which may irritate lung tissues when absorbed quickly into systemic circulation.

Prostaglandin Release

Trenbolone promotes increased production of prostaglandins, particularly PGF2α. This compound triggers contraction in the smooth muscles of the lungs, leading to bronchoconstriction and coughing.

Micro-Oil Embolism

Tiny oil droplets from an injection can reach capillaries and travel to the lungs, causing mild embolic reactions that lead to temporary oxygen deprivation and coughing.

Histamine and Mast Cell Activation

For some individuals, Trenbolone triggers histamine release and mast cell activation, mimicking an allergic response and causing bronchospasms and cough reflexes.

Related Article: Best Syringes for Steroid Injection on Amazon

Using Salbutamol (Albuterol) to Manage Tren Cough

Salbutamol, a widely-used β2-adrenergic receptor agonist, can alleviate tren cough symptoms by:
Relaxing bronchial muscles, easing spasms that cause coughing.
Inhibiting prostaglandin effects, reducing bronchoconstriction associated with PGF2α.
Opening airways, preventing severe respiratory restrictions in susceptible individuals.

Application Methods

Inhaler (Optimal)

Take 1–2 puffs of salbutamol (100–200 mcg) 5–10 minutes before a Trenbolone injection. If coughing occurs afterward, additional puffs can swiftly resolve the issue.

Oral Tablets (Moderate)

Consuming 2–4 mg tablets 30–60 minutes before injection offers slower, longer-lasting relief but may be less effective than inhalation methods.

Nebulizer (Severe Cases)

For individuals with frequent episodes, nebulized doses of 2.5 mg salbutamol can provide substantial relief.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Tren Cough Risk

Inject slowly to minimize systemic absorption and irritant effects.
Split doses to lower reaction severity with smaller quantities.
Opt for ventrogluteal injection sites, which have fewer blood vessels, reducing oil embolism risk.
Choose lower-concentration solutions to lessen irritation, as higher concentrations (e.g., Tren Ace 200 mg/ml) are more likely to provoke reactions.

What Other Steroids Can Induce Coughing?

Here's a curated list of peptides, SARMs, and PEDs that may potentially cause coughing or respiratory irritation in bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts:

Peptides

IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor): Known for its anabolic effects, IGF-1 LR3 can occasionally cause mild respiratory irritation due to systemic absorption.

TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4): While rare, improper injection techniques or high doses may lead to transient coughing episodes.

GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide): This peptide can stimulate histamine release, potentially leading to bronchospasms and coughing.

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SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators)

RAD-140: (Testolone) Some users report throat irritation or coughing, often attributed to solvents used in liquid formulations.

YK-11: Known for its myostatin-inhibiting properties, YK-11 may cause mild respiratory discomfort in sensitive individuals.

LGD-4033 (Ligandrol): Though uncommon, some users experience coughing due to carrier solvents or allergic-like reactions.

PEDs (Performance-Enhancing Drugs)

Boldenone Undecylenate (Equipoise): This injectable steroid can cause “Equipoise cough,” similar to tren cough, due to oil embolism or irritant solvents.

Testosterone Suspension: The water-based formulation may lead to coughing episodes if injected improperly or absorbed rapidly.

Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca-Durabolin): While less common, coughing can occur due to histamine release or systemic irritation.

More Tips to Minimize Coughing Risks

Use proper injection techniques to avoid embolic reactions.
Opt for lower-concentration solutions to reduce irritant effects.
Consider antihistamines or bronchodilators for individuals prone to respiratory sensitivity.

Are There Alternatives to Cough-inducing Steroids?

Here are some alternatives to cough-inducing steroids that can provide similar anabolic effects while minimizing respiratory irritation:

Peptides

IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor)

Promotes muscle growth and recovery without the irritant properties of certain steroids.

TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)

Enhances tissue repair and reduces inflammation, making it a safer option for recovery.

BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound)

Known for its healing properties, it supports muscle repair and joint health.

SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators)

RAD-140 (Testolone)

Provides significant muscle-building effects with fewer systemic side effects compared to traditional steroids.

LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)

Boosts lean muscle mass and strength without the risk of respiratory irritation.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

Stimulates growth hormone release, aiding in muscle growth and recovery.

Natural Alternatives

Turkesterone

A plant-based ecdysteroid that supports muscle protein synthesis and recovery.

Ecdysterone

Another natural compound that mimics anabolic effects without the harsh side effects.

Creatine Monohydrate

Enhances strength and muscle mass through improved energy production during workouts.

Other Options

Human Growth Hormone (HGH)

Promotes muscle growth and fat loss, though it requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects.

Testosterone Boosters

Natural supplements like D-Aspartic Acid or Tribulus Terrestris can help optimize testosterone levels for muscle growth.

SARMs Alternatives

Legal and safer versions of SARMs are available, offering similar benefits without the risks associated with traditional SARMs.

Overall

We have explored the phenomenon of "tren cough," a sudden, intense coughing episode often caused by Trenbolone injections due to factors like solvent irritation, prostaglandin release, micro-oil embolism, or histamine activation. Preventive measures such as using salbutamol (via inhaler, oral tablets, or nebulizer), injecting slowly, splitting doses, and opting for lower-concentration solutions were highlighted.

Additionally, alternative compounds to tren cough-inducing steroids were discussed, including peptides like IGF-1 LR3 and TB-500, SARMs such as RAD-140 and LGD-4033, and natural options like Turkesterone, ecdysterone, and creatine. These alternatives provide anabolic effects while minimizing respiratory side effects. The conversation also underscored the importance of proper injection techniques and thoughtful compound selection to reduce risks.

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