Anapolon by Balkan Pharmaceuticals is an oral steroid which contains 50mg of the hormone Oxymetholone. A few common nicknames for this substance are "A-50", "Anandrol 50" and "A-bombs". Oxymetholone is a very good drug for promoting massive gains in both strength and size. This steroid is very anabolic and will promote an increase in red blood cell count and appetite. The steroid was originally designed as a form of treatment for patients suffering from diseases which cause the body to waste away, such as HIV. A lot of bodybuilders consider this drug to be the strongest oral that there is for sheer mass gain. It is important to note that some of this mass will be from water bloat caused by the steroid. While Anadrol is a DHT derived compound and therefore can`t convert directly to estrogen, it still is known for many estrogenic related side effects. Some have speculated that A-50 somehow triggers the body`s natural estrogen receptors into overdrive. Stronger anti-estrogens such as Letrozole and Exemestane have been shown to greatly suppress the body`s estrogen levels and can both be very effective in keeping these types of side effects to a minimum while using Oxymetholone. Anapolon is a very fast acting steroid and bodybuilders usually begin to notice its effects towards the end of the first week. Because of this, Oxymetholone can make a great kickstart to any bulking cycle. It is important to note that A-50 can be liver toxic if not used responsibly. Bodybuilders are urged to keep cycles of this steroid short, preferably 6 weeks or less, and to keep doses to 100mg or less daily. While Oxymetholone will increase appetite in proper doses, this drug has been known to decrease appetite, making it difficult to eat, if abused in higher doses. Some users of this steroid also report headaches. Clearly this is a serious substance that should be treated with respect, but if used properly can be a very useful tool in achieving goals. Those looking to cycle with Oxymetholone will typically use it the first 3-6wks of a cycle that also includes an injectable form of Testosterone. For even more superior mass gains, bodybuilders may choose to add another injectable such as Deca or Tren to the cycle. In these cases, mass and strength gains are sure to be nothing less than dramatic. Oxymetholone will shut down the body`s ability to produce testosterone naturally, therefore making a PCT regime crucial upon discontinued use.