METHANDIENONE, METHANDROSTENOLONE

Introduction

Methandienone, also known as Methandrostenolone, is one of the most well-known and historically significant anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Developed in the 1950s, this compound has been widely used in sports and bodybuilding for its potent muscle-building effects. It is often recognized under its brand name Dianabol, which has become synonymous with the steroid itself. Methandienone has earned its reputation for delivering significant gains in muscle mass and strength.

What is Methandienone?

Methandienone is an oral anabolic steroid derived from testosterone. It is chemically modified to enhance its anabolic properties while minimizing its androgenic effects. This modification involves the addition of a double bond between carbon atoms 1 and 2, as well as a methyl group at carbon 17, which makes it resistant to hepatic metabolism. These changes allow Methandienone to be effective when taken orally and to promote substantial muscle growth and strength.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Methandienone is primarily available in oral tablet form. Common strengths include:

• Methandienone 5 mg: A lower dosage, often used in the initial phases of a cycle or for beginners.
• Methandienone 10 mg: A standard dosage used for moderate gains.
• Methandienone 50 mg: Higher doses, typically used by advanced users or in specific therapeutic contexts.

Brand and Generic Names

Methandienone is marketed under various brand names, including:

• Dianabol: The most famous and widely used brand name.
• Anabol: Another well-known brand name for Methandienone.
• Other Generic Names: Including methandrostenolone, danabol, and methandriol, among others.

Indications for Use

Methandienone was originally developed for medical use, primarily to treat conditions such as:

1. Muscle Wasting Diseases: It was prescribed to patients with muscle-wasting conditions to help rebuild muscle mass and strength.
2. Osteoporosis: Used to improve bone density and strength.
3. Hypogonadism: Treatment for low testosterone levels in men.

In the context of sports and bodybuilding, Methandienone is used for:

1. Muscle Growth: Promotes rapid increases in muscle mass.
2. Strength Enhancement: Improves physical strength and performance.
3. Improved Recovery: Aids in faster recovery from intense training.

Mechanism of Action

Methandienone exerts its effects by binding to androgen receptors in muscle cells, leading to increased protein synthesis and nitrogen retention. This anabolic effect enhances muscle growth and repair. Methandienone also has a moderate impact on red blood cell production, which can contribute to increased endurance. Unlike some other steroids, Methandienone does not convert to estrogen significantly, but it may still cause estrogenic side effects such as water retention and gynecomastia.

Administration and Dosage

The administration of Methandienone typically involves oral tablets, which are taken in divided doses throughout the day to maintain stable blood levels. Common dosage regimens include:

• Beginner Dosage: 20-30 mg per day, divided into multiple doses.
• Intermediate Dosage: 30-50 mg per day, depending on individual tolerance and goals.
• Advanced Dosage: Up to 80 mg per day, although higher doses increase the risk of side effects.

Methandienone cycles generally last 6-8 weeks, often used in combination with other steroids to maximize gains and reduce potential side effects.

Side Effects and Precautions

Methandienone, like all anabolic steroids, carries potential side effects:

• Hepatotoxicity: As a C17-alpha alkylated steroid, Methandienone can be toxic to the liver, particularly with prolonged use or high doses.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Can negatively impact cholesterol levels, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Estrogenic Effects: While Methandienone does not convert to estrogen significantly, it can still cause water retention and gynecomastia.
• Androgenic Effects: Includes acne, hair loss, and increased body hair. Women may experience virilization symptoms such as deepening of the voice and facial hair growth.
• Suppression of Natural Testosterone: Prolonged use can suppress endogenous testosterone production, necessitating post-cycle therapy (PCT) to restore natural hormone levels.

Conclusion

Methandienone (Methandrostenolone) remains a prominent anabolic steroid due to its effectiveness in promoting muscle growth and enhancing strength. Its availability in oral form and its powerful anabolic effects have made it a popular choice among bodybuilders and athletes. However, the potential for significant side effects, including liver toxicity, cardiovascular issues, and hormonal imbalances, underscores the importance of careful usage and medical supervision. Understanding the proper dosage, administration, and potential risks is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Methandienone while minimizing adverse effects.

Typical dosage for performance enhancement:

Male: 15 – 30 mg. daily

The original prescribing guidelines for Dianabol called for a daily dosage of 5 mg. This was to be administered on an intermittent basis, with the drug taken for no more than 6 consecutive weeks. Thereafter, a break of 2 to 4 weeks was advised before therapy was resumed. For physique- or performance-enhancing purposes, the drug is also used intermittently, with cycles usually lasting between 6 and 8 weeks in length followed by 6-8 weeks off. Although a low dose of 5 mg daily may be effective for improving performance, athletes typically take much higher amounts. A daily dosage of three to six 5 mg tablets (15-30 mg) is most common, and typically produces very dramatic results. Some venture even higher in dosage, but this practice usually leads to a more profound incidence of side effects, and is generally discouraged. Dianabol stacks well with a variety of other steroids. It is noted to mix particularly well with the mild anabolic DecaDurabolin®, for example. Together one can expect exceptional muscle and strength gains, with side effects not much worse than one would expect from Dianabol alone. For sheer mass, a long-acting testosterone ester like enanthate or cypionate can be used. With the high estrogenic/androgenic properties of this androgen, however, side effects should be more pronounced. Gains would be pronounced as well, which usually makes such an endeavor worthwhile to the user. As discussed earlier, ancillary drugs can be added to reduce the side effects associated with this kind of cycle. The half-life of Dianabol is only about 3 to 5 hours. A single daily dosage schedule will produce a varying blood level, with ups and downs throughout the day. The user, likewise, has a choice, to either split up the tablets during the day or to take them all at one time. The usual recommendation has been to divide them and try to regulate the concentration in your blood. This, however, will produce a lower peak blood level than if the tablets were taken all at once, so there may be a trade-off with this option. Both options work fine, but anecdotal evidence seems to support single daily doses as being better for overall results. With such a schedule, it seems logical that taking the pills earlier in the day would be optimal. This would allow a considerable number of daytime hours for an androgen-rich metabolism to heighten the uptake of nutrients, especially the critical hours following training.

Female: 10 – 20 mg. daily.

Being moderately androgenic, Dianabol is really only a popular steroid with men. When used by women, strong virilization symptoms are possible. Some do experiment with it, however, and often find low doses (2.5-5 mg) of this steroid quite effective for new muscle growth. Studies have demonstrated that a majority of women will notice acne, which is indicative of androgenicity, at a dosage of only 10 mg per day. Children are likely to notice virilizing effects with as little as 2.5 mg per day.