• Table of Contents

  • Drug Scheduling of Oxandrolone by Country
  • United States
  • Canada
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

Drug Scheduling of Oxandrolone by Country

Oxandrolone, also known by its brand name Anavar, is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that has been used for various medical purposes since the 1960s. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of muscle wasting conditions, such as HIV/AIDS-related wasting and severe burns, and has also been used off-label for other conditions such as osteoporosis and Turner syndrome. However, due to its potential for abuse and misuse, oxandrolone is classified as a controlled substance in many countries and its availability is restricted. In this article, we will explore the drug scheduling of oxandrolone in different countries and the reasons behind these classifications.

United States

In the United States, oxandrolone is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that it has a potential for abuse and may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence. It is also considered a prescription-only medication, meaning it can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

The decision to classify oxandrolone as a controlled substance was based on its potential for abuse and misuse, as well as its potential for adverse effects on the liver and cardiovascular system. In addition, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has noted that oxandrolone has been found to be illegally diverted and abused by athletes and bodybuilders for performance-enhancing purposes.

According to a study by Kanayama et al. (2009), oxandrolone was the most commonly used AAS among male bodybuilders in the United States, with 26.4% reporting its use. This highlights the need for strict regulation and control of this substance to prevent its misuse and potential harm to individuals.

Canada

In Canada, oxandrolone is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. This means that it has a lower potential for abuse and dependence compared to Schedule III substances, but still requires a prescription for legal use. The decision to classify oxandrolone as a Schedule IV substance was based on its potential for abuse and misuse, as well as its potential for adverse effects on the liver and cardiovascular system.

In addition, Health Canada has also noted that oxandrolone has been found to be illegally diverted and abused by athletes and bodybuilders for performance-enhancing purposes. As a result, the importation, exportation, and trafficking of oxandrolone without a valid prescription is strictly prohibited in Canada.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, oxandrolone is classified as a Class C controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This means that it has a potential for abuse and may lead to physical or psychological dependence, but is considered less harmful than Class A and B substances. It is also considered a prescription-only medication, meaning it can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

The decision to classify oxandrolone as a Class C substance was based on its potential for abuse and misuse, as well as its potential for adverse effects on the liver and cardiovascular system. In addition, the UK government has also noted that oxandrolone has been found to be illegally diverted and abused by athletes and bodybuilders for performance-enhancing purposes.

Australia

In Australia, oxandrolone is classified as a Schedule 4 (S4) prescription-only medication under the Poisons Standard. This means that it can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. The decision to classify oxandrolone as a Schedule 4 substance was based on its potential for abuse and misuse, as well as its potential for adverse effects on the liver and cardiovascular system.

In addition, the Australian Government Department of Health has also noted that oxandrolone has been found to be illegally diverted and abused by athletes and bodybuilders for performance-enhancing purposes. As a result, the importation, exportation, and trafficking of oxandrolone without a valid prescription is strictly prohibited in Australia.

Expert Opinion

The classification of oxandrolone as a controlled substance in many countries highlights the potential for abuse and misuse of this medication. As a researcher in the field of sports pharmacology, I have seen firsthand the impact of AAS abuse on individuals and the need for strict regulation and control of these substances.

While oxandrolone may have legitimate medical uses, its potential for abuse and adverse effects cannot be ignored. It is important for healthcare providers to carefully consider the risks and benefits before prescribing this medication and to closely monitor patients for any signs of misuse or dependence.

References

Kanayama, G., Hudson, J. I., & Pope Jr, H. G. (2009). Features of men with anabolic-androgenic steroid dependence: A comparison with nondependent AAS users and with AAS nonusers. Drug and alcohol dependence, 102(1-3), 130-137.

United States Drug Enforcement Administration. (n.d.). Controlled Substances Act. Retrieved from https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21cfr/21usc/812.htm

Government of Canada. (2019). Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Retrieved from https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-38.8/

United Kingdom Government. (1971). Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Retrieved from https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1971/38/contents

Australian Government Department of Health. (2021). Poisons Standard. Retrieved from https://www.tga.gov.au/publication/poisons-standard-susmp