Masteron (Drostanolone) is a DHT-derivative anabolic steroid available as propionate (short ester) and enanthate (long ester). Originally developed for breast cancer treatment due to its anti-estrogenic properties, it is now primarily used in bodybuilding for its muscle-hardening, anti-estrogenic, and aesthetic-enhancing effects during cutting and contest prep phases.
Notes
Masteron is primarily an aesthetic compound. Its visual effects are most pronounced at lower body fat levels (under 12-15%). Running masteron at higher body fat percentages yields disappointing results because the hardening and definition effects are masked by subcutaneous fat. Masteron acts as a mild AI by inhibiting aromatase enzyme activity and competing with estrogen for receptor binding. This means it can reduce or eliminate the need for a pharmaceutical AI when stacked with testosterone. However, it can also mask high estrogen symptoms, so bloodwork is essential. Masteron is one of the best compounds for enhancing libido and sense of well-being due to its strong androgenic activity.
Drostanolone is a 2-alpha-methylated DHT derivative that cannot be aromatized to estrogen. It exhibits moderate anabolic activity (anabolic rating: 62-130) with strong androgenic effects (androgenic rating: 25-40). Masteron acts as a competitive inhibitor of aromatase, reducing the conversion of testosterone to estradiol. It also binds strongly to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), displacing testosterone and increasing free testosterone levels. Being a DHT derivative, it does not undergo 5-alpha reduction and directly activates androgen receptors in target tissues. Its muscle-hardening effect is attributed to its anti-estrogenic activity (reducing subcutaneous water), direct androgenic action on muscle fibers enhancing tone and density, and SHBG binding which potentiates the effects of co-administered testosterone.
Drostanolone Propionate reaches peak plasma levels within 24-36 hours of intramuscular injection, with a half-life of 2-3 days. Drostanolone Enanthate peaks at 48-72 hours with a half-life of 7-10 days. Both esters are metabolized hepatically through standard phase I and phase II metabolic pathways. Masteron is not hepatotoxic (no c17-alpha alkylation). The compound has moderate bioavailability from the IM depot and does not undergo first-pass hepatic metabolism. Urinary metabolites are detectable for 3-4 months.
Typical Dose
300-400mg/week (beginner), 400-500mg/week (intermediate), 500-700mg/week (advanced)
Frequency
Propionate: EOD or 3x/week; Enanthate: 2x/week
Administration
Intramuscular injection
Half-Life
Propionate: 2-3 days; Enanthate: 7-10 days
Contraindications
Masteron Propionate: Begin PCT 4-5 days after last injection. Masteron Enanthate: Begin PCT 14 days after last injection. Standard PCT: Nolvadex 20mg/day for 4-6 weeks, or Clomid 50mg/day for 3-4 weeks. Masteron is moderately suppressive; recovery is generally easier than with 19-nor compounds. HCG during cycle at standard doses (250-500IU 2x/week) supports faster recovery.