Dianabol steroids, also known as D-Bol or by the chemical name methandrostenolone, are substances that were developed from testosterone to build muscle mass by Dr. John Ziegler and Ciba Pharmaceutical Co. in 1956. Most often, these anabolic steroids are taken orally as a pill, but the drug also is available in an injectable form. In the United States, dianabol steroids were banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and its sale is illegal in the U.S. and many other countries. Despite this, the substance remains popular among bodybuilders who are eager for quick and easy results, either on its own or as a cocktail with other illegal steroids.
Development of steroids began with testosterone experiments in the beginning of 20th century. By World War II, the Nazis were attempting to use steroids to develop a super soldier. Dianabol steroids grew out of earlier testosterone research.
Dr. Ziegler developed these steroids with the intent of giving U.S. athletes an edge. This was a response to a suspected use of testosterone by the Russians in bodybuilding and weightlifting competitions during the 1950s. By 1967, however, the use of steroids was banned from the Olympics, and by the 1980s, steroid use was banned from almost all sporting competitions. Finally, in 1990, dianabol steroids were made illegal in the U.S.
Anabolic steroids such as dianabol steroids rabidly build muscle tissue. By taking the drug prior to a workout, bodybuilders have been able to produce dramatic results. Increased strength and rapid development of muscle mass typically have been observed. Quite often, however, steroid users will retain water, and any weight increase might have as much to do with excess fluid as it does an increase in muscle tissue.
The U.S. FDA banned their steroids because of the list of side effects. Increased heart rate and blood pressure are common, along with increase in temper. Water retention and severe acne, both conditions counterproductive for competitive bodybuilders, also are frequently observed. The drug is a powerful androgen, meaning that it can trigger or amplify secondary male characteristics such as male pattern baldness, increased facial hair, aggressive behavior and temper flares. More dangerous side effects such as liver damage are a serious concern, and the drug has also been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Despite these health risks and legal impediments, some bodybuilders and athletes continue to use dianabol steroids. Dianabol is the trade name for the drug used by Ciba, and although the company no longer produces the drug, the name remains in common usage. Since Ciba ceased production, underground laboratories have become the primary source. Like other anabolic steroids, dianabol is a dangerous controlled substance and can cause severe health complications. There is no recommended use for this substance, and it should be avoided.