Active-Life: 6-8 hours (24 for injectable)
Drug Class: Anabolic/androgenic steroid
Average Reported Dosage: Men 25-50 mg daily
Acne: Possible
Water Retention: Yes
Aromatization: Yes
Liver Toxic: Yes
DHT conversion: No
Decreases HPTA function: Inhibitory
Chemical Structure:17a-methyl-17b-hydroxy-1,4-androstadien-3-one

Dianabol ( Methandienone)is one of the most highly effective mass building steroids ever created. It was, in fact, created specifically for athletes to use to improve performance (although it was claimed to have theraputic ability). It provideds highly impressive weight and strength gains for most users. Experiencing a 2-3kg weight gain per week is not unheard of, especially in novices. It must be noted that alot if this is water weight, and that with higher dosages gynecomastia (bitch tits), high blood pressure, and acne could occur. Dianabol (Methandrostenlone) when taken orally becomes active very rapidly, but only remains active for less than half a day. Often, for this reason, dosages were spread through the day. Ciba, the original makers of Dianabol claimed that 10 mgs of the product was enough for full androgen replacement in a man, and this dose increased androgen anabolic activity roughly 5 times over normal and provided a reduction in natural cortisol activity of between 50-70%. Despite this, many athletes take 50-100mgs daily. It would appear that over 50mgs/day, there is a point of diminishing return.

Since Dianabol (often called D-bol by athletes) is a 17aa compound, side effects such as increased liver values (toxicity) are to be expected, although they generally return to normal quickly after the athlete stops taking the product. In addition, as previously noted, gyno, heavy water retention (and raised blood pressure as a result), and acne were all commonly reported side effects of D-bol use. Interestingly, some users note a sense of well being during use of this drug, which is quite pronounced. This is the exact opposite of Anadrol, which is noted for an "unwell" feeling in users.