Dianabol (Methandrostenolone)
Methandrostenolone · Dbol · D-bol · Methandienone
Methandrostenolone (methandienone), marketed primarily as Dianabol, is an orally active anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) derived from testosterone. Developed by CIBA in 1958 and introduced in the United States as Dianabol in 1960, it was one of the first oral steroids in widespread athletic use and is historically credited with popularizing oral anabolic steroids in bodybuilding. It is a C17-alpha-alkylated compound with a 17-beta-hydroxyl and a double bond between carbons 1 and 2, which reduces androgenicity relative to testosterone while preserving strong anabolic activity.
Given the 3-6 hour half-life, splitting the daily dose into 2-3 evenly spaced doses keeps blood levels more stable than single dosing. Many users take a larger portion 30-60 minutes before training. Pair with an aromatase inhibitor (Anastrozole or Aromasin) and plan liver enzyme monitoring (ALT/AST, GGT) pre, mid-cycle, and post.
Start here. Every protocol below is ordered lowest-first. Begin at the smallest effective dose, hold about a week to assess tolerance, and step up only if needed.
How it works
Methandrostenolone binds the androgen receptor (AR) with moderate affinity and drives protein synthesis, nitrogen retention, and glycogen storage in skeletal muscle. The 1,2-double bond shifts its anabolic-to-androgenic ratio (~90-210:40-60) toward anabolism relative to testosterone, but it retains meaningful androgenic signaling.
Unlike DHT-derived orals, methandrostenolone aromatizes to methylestradiol, producing estrogen-like effects including water retention, fat gain, and gynecomastia risk. An aromatase inhibitor is commonly co-administered during longer or higher-dose cycles.
The C17-alpha-alkyl group gives it high oral bioavailability but imparts hepatotoxicity - liver enzyme elevation is expected and cholestatic changes are possible with prolonged or high-dose use. Endogenous testosterone production is suppressed via HPT-axis feedback; a post-cycle plan or continuous TRT base is standard.
What to expect
First 7-10 days: rapid scale weight increase (2-4 kg), much of it water and glycogen. Strength improvements noticeable in the gym within the first two sessions for many users.
Weeks 2-4: continued strength gains, improved pump, possible estrogen-related bloating if AI is not in use. Appetite increases. Liver enzymes should be checked mid-cycle.
Weeks 4-6: peak benefits plateau. Extending beyond 6 weeks offers diminishing returns and escalating hepatic / lipid risk. Plan cycle-off at least equal to the on period.
Evidence
References for this compound are being re-checked against their source records. We are not showing them until each one is confirmed to support the claim it sits under.
Side effects & safety
Commonly reported
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST 2-4x ULN during use)
- Water retention and blood pressure rise (estrogen-related)
- Suppression of endogenous testosterone (dose-dependent)
- Lipid shift (HDL drop, LDL rise)
- Increased appetite
Less common & notes
- Gynecomastia risk if estrogen is not controlled, acne, oily skin, accelerated hair loss in genetically predisposed users, insomnia, mood changes (irritability, aggression), elevated hematocrit.
- Women: virilization including voice deepening, clitoral enlargement, and facial hair - generally contraindicated in women due to these risks.
- Rare but serious: cholestatic jaundice, hepatic adenoma or peliosis hepatis with prolonged or supratherapeutic use, cardiac strain with chronic high-dose cycling.
Pharmacokinetics
Oral
Per dose - supports 2-3x daily dosing for stable blood levels
Hepatic (CYP3A4). Renal excretion of metabolites.
Storage. Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep in original container with desiccant when available. Keep out of reach of children and in a locked location - Schedule III controlled substance in the United States.
Regulatory status
Schedule III controlled substance in the United States under the Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990. No longer FDA-approved - the original brand (Dianabol, CIBA) was voluntarily discontinued in 1983. Requires a prescription where legally available. Possession or distribution without a valid prescription is a federal offense in the United States. Internationally classified similarly in most jurisdictions though some countries retain approved formulations.
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