If you decide to go to the dark side of bodybuilding, then you need to be aware of all the nuances of hormonal drugs. You need to understand what works and how it works and how to apply it correctly during the course and after the course. In this article we will talk about a drug such as Proviron. You will learn what it is and complete instructions for use.
Proviron (mesterolone) is one of the hormonal drugs that can significantly increase libido and has moderate androgenic activity. Most often, in bodybuilding it is used during a course of steroids.
If the effectiveness of the course decreases (around 4-5 weeks), then try adding Proviron. Alternatively, the effectiveness decreases due to the harmful functioning of SHBG. If so, then this drug can increase the effectiveness of your course. For a noticeable effect, it is enough to take 100 mg for 7 days.
Mesterolone steroid profile:
- anabolic activity: 40%
- androgenic activity: 100 – 150%
- aromatization: none
- suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis: absent
- Liver toxicity: virtually none at standard doses
- Method of administration: orally (in tablets)
- lifespan in the body: 12 hours
- detection time: about 60 days
- does not accumulate fluid in the body
- practically no negative effects on the skin (no acne or other side effects)
- does not increase blood pressure
- does not show progestogenic activity
- does not convert dehydrotestosterone (DHT)
Positive effects of taking Proviron:
- increases muscle stiffness (great option before a photo shoot or competition)
- increases the concentration of free testosterone
- increases libido (increases sperm count)
- blocks conversion to female hormones
- possible male pattern baldness
- with very large dosages, the liver is loaded and there is a risk of getting a liver tumor (this is a rare occurrence even when taking very large dosages)
Instructions for use of Proviron
Everything is very simple here. The standard daily dosage for men is from 50 mg to 100 mg. Should be consumed after meals. Divide the dose into 2 doses (morning and evening). It is not recommended to exceed the dose of 150 mg/day. The higher the dose, the greater the risk of side effects. Also, the larger the dose, the more libido increases, which can ultimately lead to an erection at any time. I have long and painful erections (if this happens, reduce the dose).
I recommend using sustanon, testosterone (propionate, enanthate, cypionate) and deca during a cycle. While taking the deck, this will be relevant. Use this drug in the middle of the course and until the very end. For example, if your course is 8 weeks, then add Proviron on the 4th week and up to the 8th week inclusive. I do not recommend using mesterolone for more than 3 months. Below you can see an example of how the course is structured.
Proviron on the course: sustanon + deca + testosterone propionate + methane
I have chosen this course for you as an example. It is perfect for gaining muscle mass. It can also be used when drying (even though there is a deck here). Instead of juice, you can use testosterone enanthate or cypionate. The course will involve increasing dosages. When the increase begins, then we add mesterolone.
General information about the course:
- course duration – 12 weeks
- Sust dosage – 250 mg per week (first 3 weeks) + 500 mg per week (from 4th to 10th week)
- Deca dosage – 200 mg per week (from 4th to 10th week)
- methane dosage – 2 pieces per day (first 3 weeks)
- testosterone propionate dosage – 500 mg (11th week) + 300 mg (12th week)
- Proviron dosage – 50 mg daily (from 4th to 10th week)
- pct after the course – present (we will use Clomid to restore natural hormonal levels)
- injections should be done in the morning (buttocks and quadriceps are an excellent place to inject)
- rest after the course – 12 weeks
First week: 250 sust (Monday morning) + 20 mg methane (daily: 10 in the morning + 10 in the evening)
Second week: 250 sust (Monday morning) + 20 mg methane (daily: 10 in the morning + 10 in the evening)
Third week: 250 sust (Monday morning) + 20 mg methane (daily: 10 in the morning + 10 in the evening)
Fourth week: 500 sust (Monday 250 + Thursday 250) + 200 deca (Tuesday morning) + 50 mg Proviron (daily: 25 in the morning + 25 in the evening)
Fifth week: 500 sust (Monday 250 + Thursday 250) + 200 deca (Tuesday morning) + 50 mg Proviron (daily: 25 in the morning + 25 in the evening)
Sixth week: 500 sust (Monday 250 + Thursday 250) + 200 deca (Tuesday morning) + 50 mg Proviron (daily: 25 in the morning + 25 in the evening)
Seventh week: 500 sust (Monday 250 + Thursday 250) + 200 deca (Tuesday morning) + 50 mg Proviron (daily: 25 in the morning + 25 in the evening)
Eighth week: 500 sust (Monday 250 + Thursday 250) + 200 deca (Tuesday morning) + 50 mg Proviron (daily: 25 in the morning + 25 in the evening)
Ninth week: 500 sust (Monday 250 + Thursday 250) + 200 deca (Tuesday morning) + 50 mg Proviron (daily: 25 in the morning + 25 in the evening)
Among the incredible variety of sports nutrition elements, creatine stands out separately. In this article, we will look at the types of creatine and form an opinion on which option is the best.
The most common form is creatine monohydrate. The substance is excellent for athletes, promotes the growth of training performance and muscle mass. Active demand for sports nutrition dictates its own rules, and manufacturers are constantly in the process of developing something new. This also applies to creatine, which comes in many forms. Let's talk about each of them.
Creatine monohydrate
The most authoritative type of creatine, the effectiveness of which has been proven by experience and time. Its main advantage is the optimal price-quality ratio, as well as safety of use. Creatine monohydrate is available in capsules or powder form. The safety of this substance is due to maximum chemical purity.
Creatine citrate
Creatine citrate dissolves well in liquid, which is superior to creatine monohydrate. However, from a biological point of view, it is inferior to him.
Creatine nitrate
This type of creatine is rapidly gaining popularity, but cannot boast of being well studied. Like creatine citrate, this form is highly soluble in water and also has good compatibility with the body (including a reduced risk of stomach upset).
Creatine malate
This form of creatine, combined with malic acid, is already making itself felt in the form of high sports results in practice, but from the standpoint of study it continues to lag behind the monohydrate.
Creatine orotate
Experiments performed on animals indicate the substance’s ability to reduce the body’s consumption of folic acid, as well as vitamin
B12.Magnesium creatine chelate
The main advantage of this form of the drug is its rapid transportation into muscle fibers. Another question is how relevant this is to improving athletic performance.
Creatine salts
Again, the advantage over monohydrate and other forms is the degree of solubility in liquid. Experts also point to a high degree of bioavailability.
Creatine pyruvate
Experts predict the possibility of enormous potential for this form of the substance. There is already clear confidence in the superiority in effectiveness over creatine citrate, however, more accurate information will be obtained in the near future, after the completion of the planned experiments.
Liquid creatine
Reputable manufacturers today do not resort to this form of the drug, since the liquid state of creatine itself is unstable and is subject to incorrect (from the point of view of achieving goals) breakdown.
Buffered Creatine
This type of acid has excellent absorption, in which it is superior to the same monohydrate, but is still inferior to it upon comprehensive consideration.
Creatine ethyl ester
Of course, the developers of this type prove its advantages and incomparable benefits for the body, but many experts are not so optimistic in their conclusions, since when broken down it can easily turn into a by-product - creatinine.
Glycolysed Creatine
This form of acid can indeed be identified as promising. Increasingly in-depth studies continue to confirm serious competition from polyethylene glycol-containing preparations to the proven creatine monohydrate. But there are still some difficulties with the acquisition of such a product, since tests and tests have not reached their final stage.
Effervescent creatine
It was the unsuccessful experience with the creation of a water-based substance that prompted the decision to create a synthesized product consisting of citric acid, monohydrate and bicarbonate. But this type of creatine was also considered ineffective, rating it at the level of the usual liquid form.
Afterword
Quite a lot has been written here, but the information presented is only good for expanding some theoretical knowledge. The conclusion indicates that today creatine monohydrate occupies a leading position while its competitors are at the research stage, and many of them have already suffered a negative expert assessment.
In any case, when choosing based on factors such as your own budget or the recommendations of friends, do not forget about safety for your body and choose a pure product.
The assortment of sports nutrition stores offers a huge number of drugs and active nutritional supplements. Some of them are really effective, others help the body recover and cope with stress better, others protect the immune system, and others simply siphon off money.
On a note!
To avoid the latter, we advise you to pay attention to where you buy this or that sports nutrition product and the brand under which it is produced. When choosing BCAA Universal or protein, remember! Amino acid complexes are practically harmless, but everything can change if you incorrectly calculate the dosage or purchase a product of dubious quality. Before starting use, it would not be superfluous to consult with your doctor about individual intolerance. Also, most drugs are not recommended for persons under 18 years of age, pregnant or lactating women.
About Buffered Creatine
While looking through creatine complexes, you notice a bright, large jar with the unusual name Kre-Alkalyn or Krea-Genic. Hidden under these names is buffered creatine. The main task of this type of substance is to maximize muscle pumping with energy and strength, which must be preserved when passing through all the body’s defense systems.
- costs a little less than other types;
- does not retain water in the body;
- there is no loading phase of assimilation;
- prevents interaction of the substance with blood and the acidic environment of the stomach.
The effectiveness of this form of the power system amino acid has not been scientifically proven, but all manufacturers claim that buffered creatine is better protected, so it reaches the muscles in greater quantities. Why is that?
The pure creatine molecule is surrounded by a protective layer of buffer. During production, the substance is also treated at a high pH level. These two factors are aimed at protecting creatine molecules from aggressive gastric juice.
When taken orally, buffered creatine does not have time to dissolve, which means that the body does not have time to start producing side creatinine - a substance that blocks the absorption of creatine. This allows creatine to be better absorbed, which means the usual dosage can be gradually reduced. We would like to note that clinical trials of the complexes have not been conducted.
How is Kre-Alkalyn different from Krea-Genic?
Kre-Alkalyn is a single-buffered form of creatine, the substance molecules are coated with only one protective layer. Krea-Genic has two such layers. This is believed to provide better protection for the product as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract.
Which creatine supplement is the best choice at the moment? In this article, we will explore the different forms of creatine and find out whether creatine monohydrate is the right choice.
If you have an interest in the dietary supplement industry, then you are most likely aware of the popularity and its positive effects on physical performance and athletic performance. However, as with any industry, the natural evolution of dietary supplements forces manufacturers to work towards creating better, more effective products.
But do new, “advanced” forms of creatine really offer us more options than the time-tested and thoroughly studied creatine monohydrate? Read our material and you will find out what scientific research is behind the hype around new products, and which form of creatine is optimal in terms of price/quality.
Review of 13 Popular Forms of Creatine
Creatine monohydrate(creatine monohydrate). There is no doubt that monohydrate is the most common and studied form of creatine, which has stood the test of time and proven its right to be called a basic nutrient in both strength training and professional sports. This is one of the most effective products in terms of price/quality and safety/tolerability. Many creatine monohydrate formulations come in “micronized” powders, such as the patented Creapure. Creapure is made from high quality, carefully selected ingredients. It is a natural form of creatine that has been tested for chemical purity and safety.
Creatine salts. It is believed that as a result of the chemical interaction of creatine with various salts, compounds are obtained that have greater bioavailability and are better soluble in aqueous media than creatine monohydrate. Let's take a look at the most common creatine salts and the results of scientific studies devoted to studying their characteristics.
Creatine citrate(creatine citrate). Research has shown that creatine bound to citric acid has neither greater bioavailability nor greater potency than creatine monohydrate. However, it is believed to be more soluble in aqueous media.
Creatine nitrate(creatine nitrate). Another popular creatine salt is creatine nitrate. While there is a lack of scientific research on creatine nitrate, this form of creatine is highly soluble and less likely to cause stomach upset than creatine monohydrate, which is a plus.
Creatine malate(creatine malate). Scientists have yet to study the effects of creatine bound to malic acid on athletic performance, but malic acid itself has a positive effect on physical performance.
Creatine orotate(creatine orotate). Like the previously mentioned creatine malate, creatine orotate has not been well studied at the time of writing. However, orotic acid is the most important organic acid, which is involved in the biosynthesis of pyrimidines, and in the body of animals it saves and.
Creatine pyruvate(creatine pyruvate). Perhaps the most promising creatine salt is pyruvate. Studies have proven that it is more effective than creatine citrate and increases plasma creatine levels. With that said, we should eagerly await the completion of studies that compare the effectiveness of creatine pyruvate and creatine monohydrate.
Magnesium creatine chelate(magnesium creatine chelate). There is evidence that magnesium creatine chelate accelerates the delivery of creatine to muscle tissue. But whether such an increase in the flow of creatine to muscles affects athletic performance is an open question.
Buffered Creatine(Kre-Alkalyn). This form of creatine has an alkaline pH and is better absorbed in the digestive tract than creatine monohydrate. The buffer solution used is simple baking soda. The paradox is (as in the case of creatine ethyl ester) that scientific studies that examined the effect of this form of creatine on the increase in athletic performance showed that the effectiveness of buffered creatine is not superior, but rather inferior to creatine monohydrate.
Creatine ethyl ester(creatine ethyl ester). The developers of creatine ethyl ester claim that this form is “better absorbed by the body” than monohydrate, but scientific research has shown the opposite. Ethyl ether is characterized by lower bioavailability and lower stability. After absorption in the intestine, creatine ester is quickly destroyed and converted into the final product of creatine metabolism - creatinine.
Liquid creatine. It's a little disconcerting that creatine manufacturers decided to go down this slippery slope, given that creatine monohydrate is unstable in aqueous solutions. Essentially, liquid creatine breaks down and turns into a useless byproduct (creatinine) before it even hits store shelves. Moral of the story - choose creatine powders.
Creatine effervescent. Considering the instability of creatine in aqueous solutions, some manufacturers have attempted to create effervescent creatine consisting of creatine monohydrate, citric acid and bicarbonate. Meanwhile, studies have shown that this form of creatine is extremely unstable in aqueous solution, as are other liquid preparations of creatine monohydrate.
Glycosylated Creatine(glycosylated creatine). And this is perhaps the most intriguing of the “new” forms of creatine. Optimism is instilled by polyethylene glycol (PEG), which increases the efficiency of nutrient absorption. Experimental results showed that creatine bound to polyethylene glycol is as effective as monohydrate, even when used at a 75% lower dosage. This suggests that PEG acts as a potent transport system for oral forms of creatine. However, this creatine is still far from appearing on the shelves of specialized stores.
Which form of creatine is considered the “gold standard”?
At the moment, it is difficult to compare anything with creatine monohydrate, which remains the best and most studied of all creatine preparations on the market. Some creatine salts are worthy alternatives in terms of performance benefits, and glycated creatine also has significant potential, but ultimately you can't go wrong with good old creatine monohydrate. Its effectiveness is proven and time-tested, it is available in a natural, chemically pure and safe form, such as high-quality Creapure.
The market for sports supplements in our time has reached such volumes that even a professional sometimes finds it difficult to distinguish a truly necessary product from another useless dummy designed to increase sales revenue. There is nothing to say about newcomers to bodybuilding. A lot has been written about sports supplements; in this publication we will talk about those of them whose good reputation is absolutely undeserved.
Arginine
An amino acid that is designed to replenish the deficiency and increase the concentration of nitric oxide in the body and accelerate recovery processes after sports training. It takes part in the division of muscle cells, therefore, additional intake of arginine should stimulate the growth of muscle mass.
A number of scientific studies have been conducted proving the absolute ineffectiveness of supplemental arginine intake. The concentration of nitric oxide, as well as the breakdown products of waste proteins, does not change with the intake of arginine, and the recovery time is not shortened.
A possible slight weight gain at the initial stage of use is due to the fact that an increase in the concentration of nitrogen in the tissues provokes fluid retention in the cell.
Buffer creatine
If you believe the advertising, this form of the well-known supplement is more stable, more effective and safer than regular monohydrate. In addition, the manufacturer assures that the buffer substance does not break down to creatinine, making it much better absorbed. “The only creatine that is 100% stable in its passage to muscle fibers” is another advertising claim for this product.
However, all these allegations were refuted back in 2007. As determined by doctors Mark Tallon and Robert Child, buffered creatine not only has absolutely no advantages over ordinary monohydrate, but is also less stable in the stomach. Most athletes have already heard about this from sports magazines, but this product is still on sale. Be careful when choosing creatine.
Minerals: boron, zinc, chromium, vanadium
Supplemental intake of boron and zinc is believed to increase testosterone levels and, as a result, stimulate muscle growth. In practice, a deficiency of these minerals reduces testosterone levels, but additional intake has absolutely no effect on increasing the concentration of testosterone in the blood.
Taking vanadium and chromium can even harm the training process, since the first of them is toxic and increases fatigue, and the second interferes with the absorption of iron, causing damage to chromosomes in large doses. The body's need for these minerals is minimal and is fully satisfied by natural sources.
Glutamine
Some plant extracts
Complexes of bioflavonoids, smilax officinalis extract and ferulinic acid increase immunity, reduce cholesterol levels and accelerate recovery processes. Tribulus is a recognized aphrodisiac. All of the listed drugs can be used as antioxidant and general health supplements. No matter how much sports nutrition manufacturers would like this, they have nothing to do with increasing muscle mass.
Myostatin inhibitors (a protein that regulates the limits of muscle growth) obtained from seaweed are used in agriculture to stimulate the growth of animals. When tested on humans, a similar effect was not found. When taken orally, drugs in this group are destroyed by digestive enzymes, but there are no analogues in the form of injections. Strength training itself has been shown to inhibit myostatin production.
From the above, we can draw the following conclusion: select nutritional supplements according to your goals. Carefully study the annotation and indications for use, and not just the advertising brochures. And remember, no nutritional supplement can replace training, but quite the opposite!
Irina Tsebenko, physical rehabilitation specialist, trainer-teacher