Anabolic steroids, such as Deca Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate), are commonly employed for muscle development, strength increases, and endurance boosts. However, another aspect that generates discussions is their effect on red blood cell (RBC) production.

Increased RBC count can certainly enhance one’s ability to deliver oxygen and perform, but excessive levels can be detrimental to health as well. 

But is it that dangerous? Is the fuss surrounding it exaggerated, or does it actually warrant concern?

How Anabolic Steroids Impact Red Blood Cell Production

The substances Deca Durabolin and Equipoise encourage erythropoiesis, which is the body’s natural synthesis of red blood cells. They achieve this through two primary means:

Sharply Raising Erythropoietin (EPO) Levels

Erythropoietin (EPO) is naturally produced by the kidneys and liver whenever an individual’s oxygen level is low.

Anabolic steroids and its products are known to boost EPO’s production more than normal, which instructs the bone marrow to augment its RBC output.

Bone Marrow Stimulation

Steroids have the potential to hyperactivate the bone marrow which causes increases in red blood cell output which does not take into consideration the oxygen levels.

This effect is independent of EPO, meaning RBC creation will persist no matter the oxygen conditions. These factors are the reason why Deca Durabolin and Equipoise are medically prescribed for certain types of anemia or muscle wasting conditions.

The Advantages Of Elevated Red Blood Cell Counts in Bodybuilding

For athletes and bodybuilders, a higher RBC count can serve a variety of purposes, particularly in sports that are strength-based or endurance-centered.

Benefits of Elevated RBC Levels

• Enhanced Oxygen Delivery: As noted, more RBCs also means an increased transportation of oxygen which otherwise lowers one’s endurance;
• Increased Strength & Recovery: More oxygen to various cells translates to improved ATP production, therefore increasing muscular power output and decreased muscle recovery time;
• Better Muscle Pumps & Vascularity: Increased oxygen levels increase red blood cells count, resulting in fuller hypertrophy and greater blood flow to muscles;
• Reduced Fatigue: More oxygen means that greater intensity can be achieved without lactic acid buildup, resulting in longer, more intense workouts.

For these reasons, certain athletes tend to increase their RBC levels with steroids, altitude training, or EPO injections.

Are High Red Blood Cell Levels Dangerous

When examining the issue of enhanced RBC production, one must realize that the end goal may be too high an amount of RBC and that may yield serious repercussions.

Blood Thickening: Polycythemia

These numerous red blood cells lead to greater viscosity of blood and thus have greater chances of clotting. This in turn can lead to slower blood circulation along with an increase in chances of blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks.

People facing high blood pressure and inadequate circulation may be a lot more sensitive to this.

Increased Risk of Stroke & Heart Disease

Elevated RBCs, regardless of the reason, will result in too much pressure being placed on the heart leading t a hypertensive state.

This increases chances of formation of blood clots resulting in stroke or DVT. Sustaining elevated RBCs over too long a period causes great quantities of harm to arteries.

Iron Overload & Organ Stress

With excess Iron, in addition to being stored in other organs like liver, heart and pancreas will lead to further stressing on the organs.

The accumulation of iron can lead to oxidative pressure, which enhances the organ toxicity risk as well as inflammation. As a result, blood health should be tracked when using Equipoise, Deca, or any steroid that increases Red blood Cell (RBC) count. 

How to Manage RBC Parameters While on Steroids

In case you are using Deca Durabolin, Equipoise, or any steroids that increase RBC levels, here is how to reduce the chances of any complications. 

Keep an Eye on Blood Work: Hematocrit & Hemoglobin Level Test

• Have a CBC test done every 8-12 weeks;
• Keep the hematocrit below 52% and the hemoglobin under 17.5 g/dL;
• Observe if levels are getting too high, and if so, think of lowering the dose of steroid. 

Maintain Fluid Intake 

• Thicker and more dehydrated blood increases the chance of a clot;
• It is advisable to drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily, in particular on cycles of higher doses. 

Think about Phlebotomy: Blood Donation 

• Reduced RBC levels as well as improved heart health and circulation can be achieved by donating blood;
• To reduce excessive RBC levels, some users do so regularly every 8-12 weeks. 

Take Low Doses of Aspirin 

• Thinner blood and lower chances of clots can be aided by taking a baby aspirin (81mg per day);
• Ask a professional first before consumption of regular aspirin. 

Decrease Duration of Deca Durabolin And Equipoise Cycles 

• There is a significant increase in RBC production with both compounds;
• Lower doses or shorter cycles may be beneficial in maintaining RBC elevation.

If worry develops, milder compounds such as Primobolan or Anavar can suffice.

Best Anabolic Cycle for Bulking while Mitigating RBC Elevation

The steroid cycle must be adjusted for optimal muscle development along with mitigating severe RBC increase.

12-Week Mass Gain Cycle

• Testosterone Enanthate: 500mg/week;
• Deca-Durabolin: 300mg/week;
• Equipoise: 400mg/week;
• Aromasin: 12.5mg EOD. 

Pro Tips: RBC levels should be checked every 4 to 6 weeks. If there is too rapid an increase in RBCs, Equipoise should be lowered to 3oomg a week. Blood pressure should always be controlled.

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) After Equipoise or Deca Durabolin

Natural testosterone production must always be restored after a cycle.

4-Week PCT Plan

• Clomid: 50mg/day for 2 weeks, then 25mg/day for weeks 3 through 4;
• Nolvadex: 40 mg/day for 2 weeks, then 20mg/day for weeks 3 through 4. 

HCG (500 IU every other day for 2 weeks) should be used before Climodin to facilitate faster recovery. Blood tests after the cycle should confirm those results.

Final Thoughts: Should High Dose Steroids RBC Be Considered

Responsible use will surely allow better endurance, improved performance and faster recovery. But too much too quickly and the cardiovascular problems can be alarming. Responsible steroid use will ensure results while remaining within safety limits.

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