Blood Pressure & Lipid Management
Anabolic steroid use, especially at supraphysiological doses, can significantly impact cardiovascular health. The two most common issues include:
- Elevated blood pressure (hypertension)
- Unfavorable lipid profile (↓ HDL, ↑ LDL)
Left unmanaged, these side effects increase the risk of heart disease, arterial plaque buildup, and long-term organ damage.
Causes of Cardiovascular Strain
Steroids can negatively affect heart health through several mechanisms:
- Estrogen suppression (via AIs) → impaired vasodilation
- Increased red blood cell count (hematocrit) → thicker blood
- Water retention (especially with aromatizing compounds) → increased blood volume
- Hepatotoxic oral AAS → suppressed HDL cholesterol
- Stimulants (clenbuterol, pre-workouts) → increased heart rate and BP
High-risk compounds include:
- Trenbolone
- Anadrol (Oxymetholone)
- Superdrol (Methasterone)
- Winstrol (Stanozolol)
Blood Pressure Management
High blood pressure is common among AAS users, especially during cycles that include:
- High-dose testosterone or nandrolone
- Wet compounds (Dbol, Anadrol)
- Stimulants or high sodium diets
Common symptoms:
- Headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Flushed face
- Dizziness or anxiety
Blood pressure should always be monitored during cycle. Use a home cuff (arm > wrist), preferably in the morning.
| Intervention | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hawthorn Berry | 500–1,000 mg/day | Herbal support; mild effect |
| CoQ10 (Ubiquinol) | 100–200 mg/day | Antioxidant; supports heart health |
| Taurine | 2,000–5,000 mg/day | Reduces AAS-related back/calf pumps; may lower BP |
| Magnesium (Citrate/Glycinate) | 200–400 mg/day | Vasodilator and electrolyte balance |
| Telmisartan (Rx) | 20–40 mg/day | Preferred angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) for AAS users |
| Amlodipine (Rx) | 2.5–5 mg/day | Calcium channel blocker; backup option |
| Cialis (Tadalafil) | 2.5–5 mg/day | Off-label use; improves blood flow and BP |
Lipid Management
Oral steroids and AI use are notorious for crushing HDL and raising LDL. This effect is especially pronounced with:
- Superdrol
- Winstrol
- Masteron
- Trenbolone
Strategies to protect lipids:
- Avoid oral steroids for extended periods
- Limit or avoid non-suicidal AIs like Arimidex and Letrozole
- Use Aromasin (Exemestane) instead, as it has a lesser impact on lipids
- Avoid trans fats and excess dietary cholesterol
| Supplement | Dose | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Oil (EPA/DHA) | 2–4g combined EPA/DHA | Improves HDL, lowers triglycerides |
| Citrus Bergamot | 500–1,000 mg/day | Lowers LDL and improves HDL |
| Niacin (Flush) | 500–1,000 mg/day | Raises HDL; may cause flushing |
| Soluble Fiber (Psyllium) | 5–10g/day | Lowers LDL |
| Plant Sterols | 1–2g/day | Block cholesterol absorption |
| Red Yeast Rice | 600–1,200 mg/day | Natural statin; lowers LDL (use with CoQ10) |
Bloodwork & Health Markers
Track the following markers regularly:
- Blood Pressure – Home cuff readings 2–3x/week
- Total Cholesterol
- LDL & HDL
- Triglycerides
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP) – Systemic inflammation marker
- Hematocrit & Hemoglobin – High values indicate thickened blood
- ALT/AST – Liver stress can also impact cholesterol production
Tip: Donate blood if hematocrit >52% to reduce blood viscosity and cardiovascular strain.
Real-World Advice (r/steroids PDF)
- “Tren made my BP skyrocket until I added Telmisartan.”
- “Fish oil and bergamot kept my HDL in range even on Var and Mast.”
- “Arimidex tanked my HDL. Switched to Aromasin—much better.”
- “Get a BP cuff. It’s literally lifesaving. I ignored mine and ended up in the ER.”
Summary
- Steroids disrupt cardiovascular markers, especially blood pressure and cholesterol
- Monitor BP and lipid panels regularly
- Use Telmisartan or Taurine for blood pressure management
- Support lipids with fish oil, citrus bergamot, fiber, and niacin
- Avoid extended oral cycles and harsh AI protocols
- Keep hematocrit in check with blood donation if needed
Your physique is only worth having if your heart can keep beating. Cardiovascular protection is essential—not optional—for long-term PED use.