Contraindications: Not for use in individuals with pre-existing hepatic impairment, elevated baseline ALT/AST, prostate pathology, or cardiovascular conditions involving elevated haematocrit. Oxymetholone is contraindicated in women due to virilisation risk at any bulking-phase dose. Not suitable for individuals under 21 or those who have not completed skeletal maturation.
Side_Effects: Hepatotoxicity is the primary risk associated with 17α-alkylated oral androgen use; enzyme elevation is dose- and duration-dependent. Haematocrit rise during a bulking cycle increases blood viscosity and may elevate cardiovascular workload. Fluid retention is expected during an Oxymetholone bulking phase and should not be confused with durable lean-tissue gain. Lipid profile disruption — particularly HDL suppression — should be anticipated and monitored.
Monitoring: ALT, AST, and bilirubin via standard hepatic function panel at baseline, cycle midpoint, and four weeks post-cessation. Complete blood count (CBC) to track haematocrit trajectory during the erythropoietic-active bulking window. Lipid panel at baseline and cycle end. Blood pressure monitoring throughout the bulking phase given fluid-volume expansion.
PCT: A structured post-cycle therapy protocol using a SERM — typically Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) or Clomid (Clomiphene) — is required following an Oxymetholone bulking cycle that suppresses endogenous testosterone production. PCT should commence after the injectable partner's ester window has cleared; PCT duration of four to six weeks is standard following a bulking cycle of this class.