DHB (1-Testosterone / Dihydroboldenone) - Non-Aromatizing Androgen — Anabolic Steroids
Potent 1-dehydro metabolite of boldenone (1-testosterone) that cannot aromatize, providing lean anabolic effects without estrogenic activity, but notorious for severe post-injection pain.
Overview
Dihydroboldenone (DHB, also known as 1-testosterone or 1-dehydrotestosterone) is the 5α-reduced metabolite of boldenone (equipoise). It is a potent androgen with an anabolic-to-androgenic ratio significantly favoring anabolic effects. Structurally, the 1,2-double bond prevents aromatization by CYP19 aromatase, eliminating estrogenic side effects such as gynecomastia and water retention. DHB was briefly available as a prohormone (1-AD, 1-androsterone) before the 2004 Anabolic Steroid Control Act amendment. It has no FDA approval and no pharmaceutical-grade product has been marketed. The compound is primarily available as the cypionate ester for intramuscular injection. A well-known drawback is severe post-injection pain (PIP) attributed to the compound's crystallization in muscle tissue due to poor solubility in carrier oils. Limited pharmacokinetic data exist; most dosing is empirically derived from bodybuilding community experience. PMID: 15196944, 2871501.
Indications
- Bodybuilding and physique enhancement during cutting phases (non-medical use)
- Lean mass accrual without estrogenic water retention (off-label)
- Recomposition cycles where estrogen control is prioritized (off-label)
- No FDA-approved medical indications exist
Mechanism of Action
DHB binds the androgen receptor with high affinity, promoting nitrogen retention, protein synthesis, and satellite cell activation in skeletal muscle
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHB Cypionate | 100 mg | Twice weekly (200 mg/week) | Conservative starting dose; assess PIP tolerance before increasing |
| DHB Cypionate | 150 mg | Twice weekly (300 mg/week) | Moderate dose; typical for recomposition; PIP may be significant |
| DHB Cypionate | 200 mg | Twice weekly (400 mg/week) | Upper range; substantial PIP expected; rotate sites carefully |
Evidence Grade
GRADE D
Safety & Contraindications
- No FDA-approved indication; no pharmaceutical-grade products available; all use carries quality control risks
- Severe post-injection pain (PIP) lasting 3-7 days is extremely common due to compound crystallization in muscle tissue
- Androgenic side effects: accelerated male-pattern baldness, acne, and body hair growth; not mitigated by 5α-reductase inhibitors
- Suppresses HPTA function: exogenous testosterone base and post-cycle therapy required
- Adverse lipid effects: HDL suppression expected; cardiovascular risk increases with duration of use
- Hepatotoxicity minimal (non-17α-alkylated) but underground lab products may contain contaminants