Dianabol


Dianabol (Methandrostenolone) – A Comprehensive Overview



Introduction


Dianabol, chemically known as methandrostenolone or methandienone, is a first‑generation anabolic–androgenic steroid (AAS) that was originally developed in the 1950s for medical use (e.g., treating muscle wasting disorders). Over time it gained popularity among bodybuilders and athletes due to its rapid strength gains and lean muscle mass increases.



---




1. Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action




Feature Details


Class Oral anabolic steroid


Molecular Formula C₁₇H₂₃NO₂


Mechanism Binds to androgen receptors in muscle cells, enhancing protein synthesis and nitrogen retention. It also increases erythropoiesis (red blood cell production) via stimulation of the kidneys’ erythropoietin production.






Protein Synthesis: Accelerates transcription of genes responsible for muscle growth.


Nitrogen Retention: Increases net protein balance by decreasing proteolysis.







2. Primary Therapeutic Uses



Use Target Patient Population Dosage Regimen (Common)


Muscle wasting disorders (e.g., cancer cachexia, HIV-related wasting) Adults with significant weight loss or muscle atrophy 50–200 mg daily; adjust based on body mass and clinical response.


Chronic kidney disease (CKD) CKD patients experiencing protein-energy malnutrition 25–75 mg/day depending on severity; monitor renal function.


---




3. Mechanism of Action




Protein synthesis stimulation: Enhances translation initiation factors, leading to increased amino acid incorporation into muscle proteins.


Anti-catabolic effect: Reduces ubiquitin-proteasome pathway activity, limiting breakdown of muscle fibers.


Improved nitrogen balance: Leads to positive nitrogen retention and subsequent lean mass accrual.







4. Dosage Recommendations



Condition Typical Starting Dose Maximum Recommended Dose Frequency


Muscle wasting due to chronic disease 10–15 mg/kg/day (split into 2 doses) 30 mg/kg/day total Twice daily


Cachexia in cancer patients 5–10 mg/kg/day 20 mg/kg/day Once or twice daily


Post‑operative muscle recovery 10 mg/kg/day 25 mg/kg/day Twice daily






Adjust based on patient weight, renal function, and tolerance.


Monitor for signs of excess protein intake: edema, hypertension.







5. Monitoring and Adjustments



Parameter Frequency Target / Action


Body weight & BMI Weekly ≥0.5 kg/week gain; if 7%, adjust carbohydrate distribution


Monitoring Schedule





Day‑by‑day: Intake records, weight, BP.


Weekly: Weight trend, dietary compliance check.


Monthly: Lab values, albumin, pre‑albumin, HbA1c if diabetic.


Quarterly: Re‑assessment of nutritional status, dietary adjustments.







6. Rationale & Evidence



Intervention Reasoning Key Studies / Guidelines


Target 30 kcal/kg and 1.2–1.5 g protein/kg Adequate energy and protein prevent muscle loss; recommended for hospitalized older adults with chronic illness (ASPEN/ESPEN guidelines). ASPEN Clinical Practice Guideline on Nutrition Support Therapy (2020); ESPEN guideline on clinical nutrition in geriatrics (2018).


Oral supplements or enteral feeding when oral intake