In the world of bodybuilding and athletic performance, choosing the right anabolic agent can make all the difference in achieving your goals. Among the myriad of options available, two names frequently arise: Masteron and Andriol. Each boasts unique benefits and varying effects, making the decision process daunting for both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike. Masteron is renowned for its ability to enhance muscle density and strength, while Andriol appeals to those seeking a more balanced approach with its ease of use and milder effects. But how do these powerhouses stack up against each other?

In this ultimate guide, we will delve deep into the characteristics, advantages, and applications of Masteron and Andriol. Whether you’re looking to sculpt a chiseled physique or boost your athletic prowess, understanding the differences between these anabolic titans will empower you to make informed decisions that align with your fitness aspirations. Let’s explore which anabolic powerhouse can truly elevate your journey!

Masteron vs. Andriol: A Comprehensive Comparison

Overview of Masteron

Masteron, or Drostanolone, is a well-known anabolic steroid originally developed for the treatment of breast cancer. Today, it is widely favored by bodybuilders and athletes for its ability to enhance muscle density, improve strength, and support a dry, vascular appearance during cutting phases.

Masteron exists in two esterified forms:

Drostanolone Propionate – short half-life, requiring injections every other day.

Drostanolone Enanthate – longer half-life, allowing for injections twice per week.

The steroid works by binding to androgen receptors, promoting:

Lean muscle growth

Fat oxidation

Enhanced muscular hardness

Notably, Masteron does not aromatize into estrogen. This anti-estrogenic property reduces risks of gynecomastia and water retention, making it especially popular in pre-contest preparation.

“Because of its anti-estrogenic nature, Masteron is often used during cutting cycles to reduce water weight and increase muscle definition.”
— Anthony Roberts, EliteFTS

Performance Benefits

Masteron is renowned for:

Increasing muscular hardness

Improving vascularity

Supporting fat loss

Boosting strength and endurance

Its relatively mild anabolic nature also makes it suitable for intermediate to advanced users focused on physique refinement rather than sheer mass gain.

Overview of Andriol

Andriol, or Testosterone Undecanoate, is a rare form of testosterone designed for oral administration. Unlike most oral anabolic steroids, Andriol is absorbed via the lymphatic system, bypassing the liver and reducing hepatotoxicity.

As a testosterone derivative, Andriol supports:

Muscle protein synthesis

Fat metabolism

Increased libido and energy

Stable mood and cognitive function

Its slow release results in stable blood levels, reducing the hormonal fluctuations common with other testosterone formats.

“Testosterone undecanoate’s lymphatic absorption makes it one of the few orally active testosterone esters that avoids liver damage.”
— William Llewellyn, Anabolics

User Benefits

Taken in capsule form

Fewer estrogenic spikes

Ideal for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

Fewer injection-related complications

However, bioavailability can vary widely between individuals based on digestive factors, making results inconsistent for some users.

Key Differences Between Masteron and Andriol

1. Administration

Masteron: Injectable (Propionate = frequent, Enanthate = less frequent)

Andriol: Oral (daily capsules)

2. Aromatization and Estrogenic Risk

Masteron: Does not aromatize – no water retention or gyno risk.

Andriol: Does aromatize – potential for estrogenic side effects if not managed with aromatase inhibitors (AIs).

3. Use Case in Bodybuilding

Masteron: Best for cutting, achieving hard, dry look

Andriol: Better for TRT, beginners, or those seeking moderate gains with easier compliance

4. Effectiveness

Masteron: Potent androgenic and anti-estrogenic effects

Andriol: Mild testosterone replacement effects, may require stacking with other compounds for pronounced physique changes

“While Masteron is often included in advanced stacks for cosmetic benefits, Andriol is more often used for therapeutic testosterone support.”
— John Romano, T-Nation

Benefits of Using Masteron vs. Andriol

Benefits of Using Masteron

Masteron (Drostanolone) offers a range of unique advantages, especially for bodybuilders and physique competitors looking to optimize muscle definition and reduce estrogen-related side effects.

1. Enhanced Muscle Density and Hardness

Masteron is a favorite among athletes during cutting cycles due to its ability to sharpen muscle tone and promote a dry, vascular appearance. Because it does not aromatize into estrogen, it eliminates subcutaneous water retention — helping users display a more chiseled physique.

“Masteron’s non-aromatizing DHT-derivative structure makes it ideal for creating a lean, grainy look.”
— Anthony Roberts, EliteFTS

2. Improved Strength and Endurance

Athletes using Masteron often experience noticeable increases in:

Workout intensity

Explosive strength

Workout longevity

This is especially beneficial in sports that require sustained exertion while maintaining a low body fat percentage.

3. Anti-Estrogenic Effects

Unlike testosterone and other aromatizing compounds, Masteron can act as an aromatase inhibitor, making it effective at:

Reducing gynecomastia

Preventing bloating

Controlling estrogen spikes in stacks

This property makes Masteron a go-to stacking agent in cycles where estrogen control is critical.

4. Low Androgenic Side Effect Profile

While it is a DHT derivative, Masteron tends to cause fewer issues like hair loss or acne compared to stronger androgens, making it a relatively well-tolerated option when used at moderate doses.

Benefits of Using Andriol

Andriol (Testosterone Undecanoate) is prized for its convenience, safety, and hormonal stability, making it a solid option for TRT candidates or those easing into anabolic use.

1. Oral Convenience with No Liver Toxicity

Unlike most oral steroids, Andriol is absorbed via the lymphatic system, bypassing first-pass liver metabolism and significantly reducing hepatotoxic risk.

“Testosterone undecanoate’s lymphatic route of absorption circumvents liver stress, making it safer than 17-alpha-alkylated oral steroids.”
— William Llewellyn, Anabolics

2. Stable Testosterone Levels

Andriol provides a consistent release of testosterone, which helps users maintain balanced hormone levels — crucial for muscle maintenance, energy, mood, and libido. It’s particularly beneficial for:

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Beginner steroid users

3. Mild Anabolic Activity

While not as potent as injectable testosterone esters, Andriol still provides meaningful:

Lean muscle gains

Fat distribution improvements

Recovery and stamina benefits

Its low aromatization rate (when dosed appropriately) also means fewer estrogen-related side effects compared to other oral testosterone options.

4. Low Risk of Severe Side Effects

Thanks to its modest potency and bioidentical structure, Andriol is often better tolerated, with fewer reports of:

Acne

Mood swings

Aggression

This makes it suitable for older athletes, TRT patients, or those seeking mild enhancement.

Final Thoughts

Masteron is best suited for physique refinement, cutting phases, and users sensitive to estrogenic effects.

Andriol offers a more convenient, milder, and liver-safe approach to increasing testosterone levels — ideal for beginners or those prioritizing safety and consistency.

Side Effects of Masteron vs. Andriol

Potential Side Effects of Masteron

Masteron (Drostanolone) is often praised for its mild anabolic properties and low estrogenic risk, but like all anabolic steroids, it does come with potential drawbacks.

1. Androgenic Side Effects

Due to its DHT-derived nature, Masteron can produce a range of androgenic side effects, especially in individuals genetically predisposed to sensitivity:

Acne

Oily skin

Increased facial and body hair

Accelerated hair loss (especially in those with male pattern baldness)

“Although considered mild, Masteron’s androgenic activity can still trigger side effects like hair loss and acne in susceptible users.”
— William Llewellyn, Anabolics

2. Negative Impact on Cholesterol

Like most anabolic steroids, Masteron can disturb lipid profiles by:

Lowering HDL (good cholesterol)

Raising LDL (bad cholesterol)

This imbalance may elevate long-term cardiovascular risk, especially when used without proper dietary and lifestyle support.

“Anabolic steroids, including Masteron, have been shown to adversely affect cholesterol values, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.”
— Harvard Health Publishing

3. Suppression of Natural Testosterone

Exogenous steroid use signals the body to shut down its natural testosterone production. Without proper post-cycle therapy (PCT), users may face:

Low libido

Fatigue

Mood instability

Loss of gains

4. Liver Toxicity (Minimal Risk)

Although Masteron is not hepatotoxic like 17-alpha-alkylated oral steroids, liver strain is still possible with long-term or high-dose usage. Monitoring liver enzymes and avoiding alcohol and other hepatotoxic substances is advisable.

Potential Side Effects of Andriol

Andriol (Testosterone Undecanoate) is regarded as a gentler oral steroid, but it is not exempt from side effects, particularly when used improperly or without safeguards.

1. Endocrine Disruption and Testosterone Suppression

As a testosterone derivative, Andriol suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which can lead to:

Diminished natural testosterone

Energy crashes

Libido decline

Hormonal imbalances post-cycle

“Even mild anabolic agents like Andriol require proper PCT protocols to restore endogenous testosterone production.”
— Charles Yesalis, Anabolic Steroids in Sport and Exercise

2. Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Impact

Though Andriol is less harsh than many orals, it can still alter lipid levels:

Reduced HDL

Elevated LDL

This may contribute to arterial plaque formation and increased cardiovascular risk over time.

“Oral testosterone can still impact lipid metabolism, warranting regular lipid monitoring in long-term users.”
— Mayo Clinic Proceedings

3. Mild Estrogenic Side Effects

Unlike Masteron, Andriol can aromatize into estrogen, leading to:

Water retention

Bloating

Gynecomastia

These side effects are typically dose-dependent and can often be controlled with the use of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) like Arimidex or Aromasin during cycles.

Summary Comparison

Side Effect
Masteron
Andriol

Androgenic risk
Moderate to High (acne, hair loss)
Low to Moderate

Estrogenic risk
None (non-aromatizing)
Moderate (aromatizes to estrogen)

Cholesterol impact
Negative (↓HDL, ↑LDL)
Negative (↓HDL, ↑LDL)

Liver toxicity
Low
Low

Testosterone suppression
Yes – requires PCT
Yes – requires PCT

 

Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) After Masteron or Andriol

Why PCT Is Essential

Both Masteron (Drostanolone) and Andriol (Testosterone Undecanoate) suppress endogenous testosterone production. Even though Masteron is a DHT derivative and Andriol is milder than injectables, they both signal the body to downregulate natural hormone output. If unaddressed, this can lead to:

Hypogonadism

Low libido

Depression and fatigue

Muscle loss

Estrogen rebound

PCT Protocol Overview

PCT Phase
Weeks
Goal
Compounds

Recovery Initiation
1–2
Suppress estrogen, support testosterone
Tamoxifen + DHEA

Hormonal Restoration
3–4
Normalize HPTA function
Tamoxifen + Natural T boosters

Maintenance & Support
5–6
Support mood, libido, muscle retention
ZMT, Ashwagandha, Vitamin D, Zinc

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Weeks 1–4: Pharmaceutical PCT Agents

1. Tamoxifen Citrate (Nolvadex)

Dose: 20 mg/day for 4 weeks

Purpose: Blocks estrogen receptors in breast tissue, reduces rebound gyno risk, and signals LH/FSH to restart testosterone production

“Tamoxifen remains the gold standard for PCT due to its ability to restore endogenous testosterone levels while minimizing estrogenic symptoms.”
— Michael Scally, Journal of Andrology

2. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

Dose: 100 mg/day (Swolverine DHEA recommended)

Purpose: Supports mood, energy, and hormonal balance as testosterone returns to baseline

Weeks 3–6: Natural Testosterone and Estrogen Support

3. ZMT (Swolverine)

Dose: 6 capsules before bed

Purpose: All-in-one natural testosterone and sleep recovery support (Zinc, Magnesium, Fenugreek, Tribulus, Ashwagandha)

4. Additional Support Supplements

Vitamin D3 – 5000 IU/day

Zinc (Monomethionine or Citrate) – 25–50 mg/day

Ashwagandha (KSM-66) – 600 mg/day

Tongkat Ali – 200–400 mg/day (optional for libido/test support)

Monitoring and Adjustments

Bloodwork: Test total and free testosterone, estradiol, LH/FSH at Week 5 or 6 post-cycle.

Adjust based on symptoms and labs. If testosterone remains low, extended PCT or physician-guided TRT evaluation may be necessary.

Summary

Compound
Dose
Duration
Purpose

Tamoxifen
20 mg/day
4 weeks
Restart LH/FSH, block estrogen receptors

DHEA
100 mg/day
4–6 weeks
Support adrenal hormone balance

ZMT
6 caps nightly
4–6 weeks
Improve sleep, libido, and recovery

Vitamin D3
5000 IU/day
4–6 weeks
Support testosterone and immune function

Zinc
25–50 mg/day
4–6 weeks
Required for healthy androgen production

Ashwagandha
600 mg/day
4–6 weeks
Reduce cortisol, enhance testosterone response

 

Legal Status of Masteron and Andriol

Masteron (Drostanolone)

United States

Controlled Substance: Yes

Schedule: Schedule III under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act

Prescription Required: Yes

Approved Medical Use: Previously prescribed for breast cancer but largely discontinued in favor of modern treatments

“Drostanolone is classified under Schedule III, making it illegal to possess, distribute, or use without a valid medical prescription.”
— U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

Consequences of Possession Without Prescription

Federal penalty: Up to 1 year imprisonment and minimum $1,000 fine for first-time offense

Intent to distribute: Up to 10 years in prison

International Status

Canada: Schedule IV — illegal to possess without prescription

UK: Class C drug — legal with prescription, illegal to supply or possess without one

Australia: Schedule 4 (Prescription Only) — prohibited without prescription

Andriol (Testosterone Undecanoate)

United States

Controlled Substance: Yes

Schedule: Schedule III (as it is a testosterone derivative)

Prescription Required: Yes

Approved Medical Use: Commonly prescribed for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

“Testosterone and its derivatives, including undecanoate, are Schedule III controlled substances in the U.S., requiring a licensed medical prescription.”
— FDA Controlled Substances List

Legal Use

Available by prescription: Often dispensed in TRT clinics or through urologists and endocrinologists

Forms: Oral (Andriol), injectable (Nebido, Aveed)

International Status

Canada: Schedule IV — prescription required

UK: Prescription-only medicine (POM)

EU: Available via prescription (common in TRT regimens)

Australia: Schedule 4 — prescription only

Summary Table: Legal Status Comparison

Steroid
Controlled Status (U.S.)
Prescription Required
Common Legal Use

Masteron
Schedule III (Anabolic CSA)
Yes
Formerly for breast cancer (now rare)

Andriol
Schedule III (CSA – testosterone)
Yes
Hormone replacement therapy (TRT)

Final Legal Considerations

Purchasing Masteron or Andriol without a prescription in the U.S. is illegal.

Importing these compounds through online sources or underground labs carries risk of:

Customs seizure

Criminal prosecution

Permanent records with the DEA or FDA

“Importing anabolic steroids through non-prescription channels violates federal drug laws and may result in criminal charges.”
— U.S. Customs and Border Protection

If you’re considering therapeutic use, consult a licensed medical provider and seek legal prescriptions via regulated TRT clinics or physicians.

Choosing Between Masteron and Andriol: Which Anabolic Steroid Aligns with Your Goals?

How to Choose the Right Anabolic Steroid for Your Goals

Selecting the right anabolic steroid requires a personalized approach that factors in your fitness objectives, experience level, risk tolerance, and preferred mode of administration. Both Masteron and Andriol offer specific benefits and limitations that make them suitable for different users.

1. For a Lean, Sculpted Physique – Choose Masteron

Masteron is ideal for those in:

Cutting phases

Pre-contest prep

Photo shoots or stage competitions

Its non-aromatizing nature makes it a top choice for those seeking:

Enhanced muscle hardness

Dry, vascular look

Minimal water retention

Masteron’s anti-estrogenic properties also help prevent side effects like gynecomastia without needing additional aromatase inhibitors.

“Masteron is favored by physique athletes due to its ability to harden the musculature without bloating or estrogen conversion.”
— William Llewellyn, Anabolics

2. For Convenience and Beginner-Friendly Use – Choose Andriol

Andriol’s oral delivery and mild anabolic profile make it suitable for:

Beginners

Individuals averse to injections

TRT users or those seeking hormonal stability

Its benefits include:

Steady testosterone levels

Reduced liver toxicity (via lymphatic absorption)

Balanced muscle and strength improvements

“Andriol provides a safe, user-friendly testosterone option without the hepatotoxic effects of most oral steroids.”
— Charles Yesalis, Anabolic Steroids in Sport and Exercise

3. Match the Side Effect Profile to Your Health History

Consider how each compound’s side effects align with your predispositions:

Risk Factor
Masteron
Andriol

Androgenic sensitivity
Higher risk (acne, hair loss)
Lower risk

Estrogenic effects
No risk (non-aromatizing)
Moderate (may cause water retention)

Cardiovascular strain
Present (HDL↓, LDL↑)
Present but milder

Suppression of testosterone
Yes – needs PCT
Yes – needs PCT

Injection required?
Yes
No (oral capsules)

If you’re prone to androgenic side effects like acne or hair loss, you may want to avoid Masteron. Conversely, if estrogen-related issues like bloating or gynecomastia concern you, Masteron may be preferred over Andriol.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

Masteron: The Physique Enhancer

Best for lean muscle preservation

Ideal for cutting and competition prep

Offers anti-estrogenic support

Requires injections and PCT

Not suitable for users sensitive to DHT-related side effects

Andriol: The Safe and Steady Option

Convenient oral administration

Suitable for TRT and beginners

Supports balanced testosterone levels

Mild estrogenic and androgenic risk

Requires daily dosing and PCT

Final Word: Aligning the Compound With Your Goals

The best steroid is not the most powerful—it’s the one that matches your:

Goals (cutting, bulking, maintenance)

Experience level

Health status

Lifestyle and administration preference

“Choosing the right anabolic requires a deep understanding of both the pharmacology and your individual needs. A tailored approach minimizes risk and maximizes results.”
— Dr. George Touliatos, Anabolics Revisited

Consult with a medical professional or certified coach before beginning any anabolic regimen. A proper post-cycle therapy (PCT) plan, regular bloodwork, and risk management strategy are non-negotiable for safe and effective use.