Examining Havoc (Methepitiostane): The Short-Lived Designer Steroid

Havoc (Methepitiostane): Background and History

Havoc, also known by its chemical name methepitiostane, is an oral designer steroid that was introduced in the early 2000s. It is chemically related to the banned prohormone epitiostanol. Havoc was marketed as a “nutritional supplement” to circumvent steroid laws, but was banned in 2004 once it was classified as a controlled substance.

Havoc gained usage among bodybuilders and athletes for its ability to boost strength and lean tissue growth. However, given its unclear safety profile and now illegal status, it remains rare to obtain. Most users transitioned to newer designer steroids after Havoc’s ban.

Chemical Structure

Havoc contains the steroidal compound 2α,3α-epithio-17α-methyl-5α-androstan-17β-ol, which has an epithio group instead of the ketone group found on testosterone and makes it resistant to metabolism. It also contains a 17-methyl group to improve oral bioavailability.

Dosages and Cycles

Effective doses of Havoc were in the range of 10-30mg per day. Cycles typically lasted 4-6 weeks followed by an equal time off. Stacking with testosterone was common since natural production shuts down. Post cycle therapy was also a necessity after discontinuing use.

Effects and Benefits

Havoc is thought to stimulate significant gains in muscle mass and strength. However, data is limited. Anecdotally it is said to provide lean, quality gains in size while enhancing muscular endurance and power output. The androgenic effects were considered mild.

Side Effects and Health Risks

There is very limited data on the potential adverse effects of Havoc. Possible issues might include liver toxicity, lipid profile changes, heart strain, hormonal dysfunction, and androgenic side effects. However without human trials, the effects are speculative.

Legal Status

In 2004, Havoc was officially classified as an illegal anabolic steroid. Possession or sale can result in criminal penalties according to the Anabolic Steroid Control Act. It is no longer available as a commercial supplement. Underground manufacturing would be considered illegal.

In summary, Havoc was an experimental designer steroid that rose to notoriety for a short time before being banned. However, data on its safety and efficacy in humans is severely lacking.