Methandrostenolone, also known as Dianabol, is a popular oral anabolic steroid that has been used by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance muscle mass and strength. While it can provide significant gains in muscle size and strength, it is important to understand the potential side effects associated with this drug.
1. Liver damage
One of the most serious side effects of Methandrostenolone is liver damage. This is because the drug is processed by the liver, and overuse can lead to liver toxicity. Long-term use of Methandrostenolone can cause liver tumours or cysts, and can even lead to liver failure. It is therefore recommended that individuals who use Methandrostenolone undergo regular liver function tests to monitor their liver health.
2. Increased risk of heart disease
Methandrostenolone can also increase the risk of heart disease. This is because it can cause an increase in LDL cholesterol, which is the “bad” cholesterol that can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. Additionally, Methandrostenolone can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can further increase the risk of heart disease.
3. Testosterone suppression
Another potential side effect of Methandrostenolone is testosterone suppression. This occurs because the drug can suppress the body’s natural production of testosterone. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and depression. In extreme cases, testosterone suppression can even lead to infertility.
4. Gynecomastia
Methandrostenolone can also cause gynecomastia, which is the development of breast tissue in men. This occurs because Methandrostenolone can convert into estrogen in the body. Estrogen is the hormone that is responsible for female characteristics, including breast development. If estrogen levels become too high in men, it can cause the development of breast tissue.
5. Acne and oily skin
Methandrostenolone can also cause acne and oily skin. This is because the drug can increase sebum production, which is the oil that is produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. This excess oil can clog pores, leading to acne breakouts.
6. Mood changes
Methandrostenolone can also cause mood changes. This is because the drug can affect the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are the chemicals that regulate mood. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, and aggression.
7. Hair loss
Methandrostenolone can also cause hair loss. This is because the drug can cause an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone that is responsible for male pattern baldness. If an individual is genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness, Methandrostenolone can accelerate the process.
Takeaway
While Methandrostenolone can provide significant gains in muscle size and strength, it is important to understand the potential side effects associated with this drug. These side effects can range from mild to severe, and can include liver damage, an increased risk of heart disease, testosterone suppression, gynecomastia, acne and oily skin, mood changes, and hair loss. It is therefore recommended that individuals who use Methandrostenolone do so under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and undergo regular monitoring to ensure their health and well-being.
David Radar, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.