Dianabol (Methandrostenolone)
[17a-methyl-17b-hydroxy-1,4-androstadien-3-one]
Molecular Weight: 300.44
Formula: C20H28O2
Melting Point: N/A
Manufacturer: Ciba (originally)
Release Date: 1956
Effective dose: 25-50mgs (as low as 10 and as high as 100 have been reported)
Active Life: 6-8hours
Detection Time: up to 6 weeks
Anabolic/Androgenic Ratio (Range): 90-210:40-60
Profile
This highly anabolic, mildly androgenic drug is usually found in pill form, though it also exists as an injectable under the trade name Reforvit-B (25mgs mixed with B-vitamins).
Properties
Dianabol has historically been, and is today, the most commonly used oral steroid for physique and performance enhancing purposes. It is fast acting, and quickly generates lots of muscle mass. Although Dianabol provides almost immediate results, its gains include substantial water retention.
Side Effects
Dianabol increases aggression, and is very liver toxic. Its tendency to readily convert to estrogen, may make gynecomastia (increased development of female-like breast tissue in men) and water retention a problem. Since it quickly increases body weight due to both hypertrophy and excess fluid retention, increases in both blood pressure and heart rate can occur. Its tendency to readily convert into dihydrotestosterone will stimulate the sebaceous gland, promoting serious acne on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. If a genetic predisposition to hair loss is present in an individual, this drug may accelerate its onset. After Dianabol is discontinued, a significant loss in both size and strength may be seen since excess fluid retention is reversed.
Notes
Because it is a quick oral drug, Dianabol is very popular among novice users and often taken by itself. However, it is recommended and used by bodybuilders as a "kick starter" (within the first four weeks of a steroid cycle). It should always be part of a testosterone based cycle, and works synergistically with virtually every injectable steroid.