For many bodybuilders their first introduction to steroids was Dianabol (also known as D-bol and by the generic name, Methandrostenelone). Its safe to say that many iron pumpers remember their first cycle as fondly as their first girlfriends! The Ciba Corporation first manufactured d-bol in the 1960s. As an anabolic steroid it is chemically a derivative of the male hormone testosterone. This means that it has both anabolic (muscle building) and androgenic (masculinizing) properties. Since its first use 40 years ago, D-bol has quickly become one of the most popular and sought after drugs in bodybuilding.

The good - Super potent!

When used properly, D-bol will produce outstanding mass and strength gains. As many bodybuilders are fond of saying if you cant grow on D-bol you cant grow! The drugs effectiveness is routinely compared to other strong steroids like Anadrol 50. For most bodybuilders a daily dosage of 4-5 tablets (20-25mg) is more than sufficient to produce dramatic results. Some users do experiment with higher dosages, but this practice often leads to unwanted side effects. Dianabol also combines well with other steroids such as Deca-Durabolin, into stacks. Bodybuilders have discovered that for developing maximum size, a long acting testosterone analog such as enanthate works best.

And now for the bad

As expected, D-bol, being moderately androgenic will produce side effects. For starters the drug can be quite estrogenic in some users. Gynecomastia (swelling of the nipple region) is often a concern during use, and may occur quite early in the cycle (particularly if the individual used high dosages). For this reason many bodybuilders add an estrogen blocker such as Nolvadex, to their cycles. Another cosmetic side effect is water retention. This is a concern for competitive bodybuilders, as it will cause a notable loss of muscle definition.

Besides gynecomastia and water retention D-bol can produce such androgenic side effects as oily skin, acne and body/facial hair growth. There is also the possibility of aggravating male pattern baldness in individuals genetically predisposed for this condition.

And the ugly

Like all oral steroids, D-bol has been C-17 alpha alkylated (chemically modified at the 17th carbon position on its nucleus). While this modification protects the drug from being deactivated by the liver, it can also be toxic to the organ. Long-term exposure to C-17 alpha alkylated substances can result in damage and possibly even the development of certain forms of cancer. A combination of short (6 to 8 week) cycles and medical monitoring can reduce this risk.

The alternatives!

Besides the risk of side effects there are three other reasons to avoid using Dianabol. For starters the drug is easily detectable in drug tests. So if youre an athlete in a sport that has testing, D-bol is out. Second, as of 1990, most steroids-including D-bol were reclassified as illegal substances. Whether its cocaine, heroin, or steroids, law enforcement types dont really care. If they nail you its a pay raise for them and jail time for you. Enough said.

Finally a third reason to pass on D-bol is that there are options. The supplement industry has made available numerous legal alternatives to steroids. Users report outstanding muscle gains with few side effects.

The previous information has been created by experts to help you increase your knowledge base about anabolic steroids and bodybuilding supplements. Be knowledgeable. Be informed. Make the right choice!

Bob Howard 03/27, 2006