Structural Biochemistry/Dianabol
Dianabol (also called methandrostenolone, averbol, danabol, methandienone or methanienone) is an anabolic steroid that some athletes use to increase the size and strength of their muscles. This is similar to male hormone testosterone. Some studies suggest that the effects of the drug are minimal, but some side effects keep people from using it.
History[edit | edit source]
Dianabol was developed in Germany and released in US in 1960s by Ciba Specialty Chemicals. It is a controlled substance in United States, though popular with body builders.
Dr. Zeigler[edit | edit source]
Dr. Zeigler, the team physician for U.S. gold Olympic weightlifting team, played a large role in the research of altering testosterone to make it safer for the body. However, due to misuse of the drug by athletes, Dr. Zeigler became the voice of opposition of sport doping.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
- Increased risk of liver cancer
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Oily skin, acne and bodily and facial hair growth
- Liver dysfunction
- Androgenic side effects
- For women, deepening of voice and irregular menstrual cycles.