Oxandrolone vs Liothyronine (T3)
A side-by-side research comparison of Oxandrolone and Liothyronine (T3) across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Oxandrolone | Liothyronine (T3) |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Oxandrolone (Anavar) | Liothyronine Sodium (Cytomel) |
| Category | Hormone Replacement | Hormone Replacement |
| Status | FDA Approved (Schedule III) | Prescription medication |
| Mechanism | Binds androgen receptors with high anabolic:androgenic ratio (~10:1). Does not aromatize to estrogen. Increases nitrogen retention, protein synthesis, and phosphocreatine resynthesis while reducing SHBG. | Binds nuclear thyroid receptors to regulate gene transcription for basal metabolic rate, thermogenesis, protein synthesis, and carbohydrate/fat metabolism in virtually every tissue. |
| Molecular weight | 306.44 Da | 650.97 Da |
| Half-life | ~9 hours | ~2.5 days |
| Bioavailability | ~97% oral | ~95% oral |
| Typical dose | 10-20 mg (therapeutic); 20-50 mg (performance) | 5-25 mcg |
| Frequency | Split 2x daily | Daily (split AM/PM) |
| Route | Oral | Oral tablet or sustained-release capsule |
Oxandrolone reported benefits
- Lean muscle gain without water retention
- Increased strength
- Fat loss (visceral)
- Wound healing acceleration
- Minimal estrogenic effects
- Improved bone density
Liothyronine (T3) reported benefits
- Metabolic rate increase
- Weight loss support
- Improved energy
- Better mood
- Reduced brain fog
- Enhanced fat oxidation
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.