Liver Protection (TUDCA, Milk Thistle)
Many anabolic steroids—especially 17α-alkylated oral compounds—pose a risk to liver health. To mitigate hepatotoxicity, bodybuilders often use liver support supplements. Two of the most commonly used compounds are:
- TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic acid)
- Milk Thistle (Silymarin)
Other compounds such as NAC and Liv.52 are also used, but this entry focuses on the most widely recommended options.
Why Is Liver Protection Necessary?
Oral anabolic steroids like Superdrol, Winstrol, Anadrol, and Dianabol are modified at the C-17α position to survive first-pass liver metabolism. This increases bioavailability but places heavy stress on the liver.
Signs of liver stress may include:
- Elevated ALT and AST (liver enzymes)
- Fatigue
- Nausea or digestive discomfort
- Jaundice (in extreme cases)
Bloodwork is the only reliable way to assess hepatotoxicity. Monitoring ALT, AST, GGT, and bilirubin is strongly advised during and after oral cycles.
TUDCA: The Gold Standard
TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a bile acid that protects liver cells by reducing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and promoting bile flow.
Benefits:
- Clinically proven to treat cholestasis
- Reduces liver enzyme elevation
- Protects hepatocyte membranes
- Non-toxic and well-tolerated
| Compound | Recommended Dose | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| TUDCA | 250–1,000 mg daily | On-cycle (especially with orals) | Best taken with food for absorption |
User anecdotes and clinical evidence suggest TUDCA is the most effective liver protection compound available for steroid users.
Milk Thistle: Traditional Support
Milk Thistle (active ingredient: silymarin) is a herbal antioxidant that protects the liver by scavenging free radicals and stabilizing liver cell membranes.
Benefits:
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- May aid liver regeneration
- Mild protective effect on liver enzymes
Limitations:
- Poor oral bioavailability
- Evidence for use in preventing steroid-induced hepatotoxicity is weak
- More useful for general liver health than high-stress oral cycles
| Compound | Recommended Dose | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milk Thistle (Silymarin) | 300–600 mg daily | Off-cycle or as background support | Better as preventive/tonic support, not standalone for oral cycles |
Other Common Liver Support Compounds
- NAC (N-acetylcysteine) – Glutathione precursor; antioxidant support
- Liv.52 – Ayurvedic blend; anecdotally popular but clinically weak
- UDCA – The prescription counterpart to TUDCA, similar effect
- Choline & Inositol – Old-school support, low efficacy
When to Use Liver Support
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Running oral AAS | Use TUDCA daily during the cycle |
| Post-cycle or TRT | Optional Milk Thistle or NAC |
| Injectables only | Liver support not typically required, but NAC is optional |
| High liver enzymes on bloodwork | TUDCA strongly advised; discontinue orals immediately |
Note:
- Using multiple liver supports (e.g., TUDCA + NAC) is common, especially with harsh orals
- Even “milder” orals like Anavar and Turinabol can elevate liver enzymes
Bodybuilder Advice (from r/steroids PDF)
- “TUDCA saved my labs during a Superdrol run—AST/ALT were triple before, then normalized.”
- “Milk thistle is fine for general use but useless for Superdrol or Halo.”
- “NAC and TUDCA is the best combo I’ve used—never saw enzymes above range.”
- “If your orals are working, your liver is hurting. Period.”
Summary
- TUDCA is the most effective liver protection for oral steroid users
- Milk Thistle has general liver support benefits but lacks potency
- Use TUDCA on-cycle, especially with methylated oral AAS
- Monitor liver enzymes with bloodwork regularly
- Stack with NAC for enhanced antioxidant support
Protecting liver health is essential for anyone using oral AAS. Failure to do so can result in serious medical complications and long-term damage.