Methandienone (also known as Dianabol and methandrostenolone) was the first orally active anabolic steroid to be synthesized and sold on the prescription market and is historically considered to be the most popular performance enhancing drug ever used in strength and physique sports. Methandienone is a C17-alpha-alkylated orally effective anabolic steroid that was released by Ciba Pharmaceuticals to the U.S. prescription drug market in 1958 under the famous brand name Dianabol. Ciba developed methandrostenolone into a medicine with the help of Dr. John Ziegler, who was the team physician for a number of U.S. Olympic teams, including weightlifting. 

Methandienone affects metabolism and cellular physiology very significantly, resulting in dramatic increases in protein synthesis, glycogenolysis, and muscle strength in a relatively short period of time. The C17-alpha-alkylation makes methandienone more resistant to hepatic breakdown, which allows it to be administered orally and still have a notably strong effect. As a result, it may exert stress on the liver. In summary, methandienone has earned an outstanding reputation as a potent tool for making quick gains or retaining gains and is widely recognized as a very good drug when used properly and safely. 

WARNING: Methandienone easily aromatizes into methylestradiol, which is up to 30% more active compared to regular estradiol. Accordingly, getting blood work to evaluate individual responses and the use of aromatase inhibitors are recommended when taking methandienone. Due to its C17-alpha-alkylation, methandienone may exert stress on the liver. Therefore, healthy lifestyle choices and the use of supplements to promote liver health are advisable. The recommended methandienone cycle duration should be no longer than 6–8 weeks.