Dianabol (Methandrostenolone) — Classic Oral AAS — Anabolic Steroids
One of the most iconic oral anabolic steroids, historically approved but now discontinued. Known for rapid mass and strength gains.
Overview
Methandrostenolone (Dianabol, Dbol) is a 17-alpha-alkylated oral anabolic steroid derived from testosterone with an added methyl group at the C17 position and a double bond at the C1-2 position. Developed by Dr. John Ziegler for CIBA Pharmaceuticals in 1955, Dianabol was created specifically for American Olympic athletes competing against Soviet teams suspected of using testosterone. It was FDA-approved in 1958 for treatment of hypogonadism, osteoporosis, and pituitary-deficient dwarfism, but its approval was withdrawn in 1983 following growing concerns about abuse. Dianabol has an anabolic:androgenic ratio of 210:60 and remains one of the most widely used AAS in bodybuilding history. It produces rapid weight gain primarily through increased protein synthesis, glycogenolysis, and significant water retention due to moderate aromatization. Users typically gain 10-20 lbs in a 4-6 week cycle, though a substantial portion is water weight. Dianabol is hepatotoxic due to its 17-alpha-alkylation and produces dose-dependent elevations in liver enzymes. It was reportedly the primary AAS used by Arnold Schwarzenegger and other Golden Era bodybuilders.
Indications
- Historical FDA approval: Hypogonadism, osteoporosis, pituitary-deficient dwarfism (discontinued 1983)
- No current legitimate medical indications
- Unapproved: Rapid mass and strength gains (bodybuilding use)
Mechanism of Action
Activates AR-mediated gene transcription increasing nitrogen retention and protein synthesis dramatically in skeletal muscle
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Methandrostenolone (Dianabol) | 15-25 mg | Split into 2-3 doses daily | Common bodybuilding dose — split due to short half-life |
| Methandrostenolone | 30-50 mg | Split into 2-3 doses daily | Higher bodybuilding dose — significantly increased hepatotoxicity |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Hepatotoxicity: 17-alpha-alkylated; liver enzyme elevation, cholestatic jaundice, peliosis hepatis
- Significant water retention and elevated blood pressure from aromatization
- Gynecomastia risk — aromatizes to methylestradiol
- Adverse lipid changes (HDL depression, LDL elevation)
- HPG axis suppression
- Acne, oily skin, accelerated hair loss
- Schedule III controlled substance
- FDA approval withdrawn in 1983