Introduction
Dinandrol is a unique blend of Nandrolone Phenylpropionate and Nandrolone Decanoate, originally developed by Xelox Pharma Co. in the Philippines. The initial idea behind Dinandrol’s creation was to mimic the functions of Sustanon 250. However, its release timing was less than optimal, leading to it being perceived as less similar to Sustanon 250 than initially anticipated.
Containing Nandrolone Decanoate, Dinandrol exhibits a slower release, providing an increase in Nandrolone levels within forty-eight hours of administration. The inclusion of Nandrolone Phenylpropionate (NPP) further enhances this spike, albeit with a similar duration as Nandrolone Decanoate or Deca-Durabolin.
Like many Nandrolone compounds, Dinandrol was primarily developed for treating various health conditions such as anaemia, which results in a significant drop in red blood cell count. While it was used for medical purposes, Dinandrol is more commonly recognized as a performance-enhancing steroid among athletes and competitive sports enthusiasts. It is marketed predominantly to individuals in these fields and is typically utilized by athletes seeking to enhance their performance.
Despite its therapeutic benefits, Dinandrol faces limited demand due to the availability of other steroids offering similar effects, such as Nandrolone Decanoate and, to some extent, Nandrolone Phenylpropionate. While it can be beneficial for athletes aiming to increase muscle mass and endurance, Dinandrol is not as widely sought after as other Nandrolone hormones due to its limited availability and desirability.
Dinandrol, what it does and how it works
The blend of Nandrolone Phenylpropionate and Nandrolone Decanoate creates Dinandrol, a well-known anabolic steroid. It belongs to the Nineteen nor (19 nortestosterones) group, meaning it lacks a carbon atom in the nineteenth position of the testosterone hormone.
As part of the Nandrolone family, Dinandrol combines esters from both Nandrolone Decanoate and Nandrolone Phenylpropionate. These esters don’t affect Dinandrol’s actions but influence how the hormone is released in the body. Taking Dinandrol causes a sudden increase in Nandrolone levels, which then gradually releases over time as the esters detach.
Dinandrol has an anabolic rating of 125 and an androgenic score of 37. While it aromatizes in the body, its rate is only 20% compared to testosterone. However, it still has estrogenic activity. To maintain stable Nandrolone levels, regular injections every 2-3 weeks are recommended.
Overall, Dinandrol is a potent anabolic steroid, similar to other Nandrolone hormones but unique due to its 19 nor nature. It also possesses traits that set it apart from other steroid hormones.
Effect on Collagen
Collagen is essential for maintaining the strength and flexibility of connective tissues, ligaments, and tendons. It also contributes to the density of bones and cartilage. This protein occurs naturally throughout the body, with significant concentrations in the mentioned areas, particularly in muscle connective tissue.
Dinandrol increase bone density
Having higher bone mineral content strengthens and supports skeletal muscles. Individuals with low bone mineral content are at a higher risk of fractures and bone-related conditions like osteoporosis. Dinandrol and other nandrolone compounds are effective in enhancing bone density. When combined with collagen synthesis, they further enhance overall strength.
Dinandrol increases IGF1
IGF1 is highly anabolic and naturally produced by the body. Besides its potent anabolic effects, it aids in recovery. Elevated levels of Nandrolone in the body lead to increased production of IGF1.
Reduced Glucocorticoid Production
Glucocorticoids, stress hormones, oppose anabolic steroids by promoting fat storage and muscle tissue breakdown. Excessive levels can harm performance, although they’re essential in moderation for overall health.
Enhanced Protein Synthesis
Protein, made of amino acids, forms the basis of muscle tissue. Synthesis refers to the body’s rate of building protein. Higher synthesis means a more anabolic effect, aiding muscle gain and recovery.
Increased Nitrogen Retention
Lean muscle contains about sixteen percent nitrogen. Insufficient nitrogen levels lead to muscle wasting. Enhancing nitrogen retention promotes an anabolic environment, improving muscle building and preservation.
Properties of Dinandrol
Dinandrol is primarily known as a hormonal anabolic steroid used for building lean muscle mass, making it popular among off-season athletes seeking muscle growth. Unlike oral steroids, Dinandrol doesn’t promote rapid muscle growth or weight gain. However, the gains are noticeable, especially when consuming extra calories for bulking.
Muscle mass gained with Dinandrol is typically easier to retain after discontinuing steroid use compared to other steroids like Dianabol. There’s also a lower risk of gaining body fat during the off-season due to Dinandrol’s metabolism-boosting effect.
Although not commonly considered a cutting steroid, Dinandrol is effective during the cutting phase. While it lacks muscle conditioning properties seen in steroids like Trenbolone, it still plays a valuable role in assisting with cutting.
Side Effects of Dinandrol
While Dinandrol, like all Nandrolone hormones, may have potential side effects, it’s generally well-tolerated by healthy adult men. Proper usage typically helps men avoid these side effects. However, individual responses vary due to genetic factors and other personal differences. Most men shouldn’t encounter significant issues with Dinandrol’s side effects. To help you understand, we’ve categorized and provided information on potential side effects of Dinandrol.
Estrogen Related
Dinandrol can lead to estrogenic side effects due to its aromatization process, albeit not heavily. These effects may include water retention and gynecomastia. Severe water retention can also raise blood pressure. Additionally, Dinandrol acts as a progestin, which, in sensitive individuals, can stimulate estrogenic mechanisms in mammary tissue, increasing the risk of gynecomastia.
To counteract estrogenic side effects, most men will need to use an anti-estrogen. Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) like Tamoxifen Citrate (Nolvadex) and Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) like Anastrozole (Arimidex) are commonly used. AIs are more effective as they inhibit the aromatase process, reducing serum estrogen levels. SERMs bind to estrogen receptors without lowering estrogen levels. While SERMs may suffice for some, larger cycles, especially for progestin-sensitive individuals, may require AIs.
It’s worth noting that AIs may impact cholesterol levels, particularly HDL cholesterol, when used alongside aromatizing steroids. SERMs, on the other hand, can improve cholesterol levels as they act partially as estrogen in the liver, promoting healthier cholesterol levels.
Masculine side effects
Dinandrol may cause androgenic side effects, but the likelihood is low for most men due to a high threshold. Potential androgenic effects include accelerated hair loss in those prone to male pattern baldness, acne in genetically sensitive individuals, and increased body hair growth. However, most men won’t experience these effects.
It’s important to note that using 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to reduce the androgenicity of Dinandrol or any Nandrolone hormone is not recommended. While the 5-alpha reductase enzyme metabolizes Nandrolone, it doesn’t convert it to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) but rather to dihydronandrolone (DHN). Using a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor could actually increase the androgenicity of Dinandrol.
Although Dinandrol is only mildly androgenic, women may experience virilization symptoms, which can be more pronounced than expected. Some women may tolerate it at low doses and for short durations. However, if symptoms like body hair growth, deepening of the voice, or clitoral enlargement occur, immediate discontinuation is necessary to prevent irreversible effects.
Heart and Cholesterol
Dinandrol may lead to high blood pressure and unfavorable lipid values, though controlling water retention can help manage blood pressure unless there’s an underlying issue. While Nandrolone’s impact on cholesterol isn’t as severe as oral steroids, it can still reduce HDL cholesterol, which regulates LDL cholesterol, potentially affecting your overall lipid profile.
To mitigate cholesterol concerns, it’s crucial to have healthy cholesterol levels before using Dinandrol. Adopting a healthy lifestyle during use, including daily cardiovascular exercise, can help maintain cholesterol health. Despite focusing on growth, incorporating cardio can boost metabolism and physique. Diet plays a critical role, with emphasis on minimizing saturated fats and sugars while prioritizing omega fatty acids through fish oil supplementation. Additionally, a cholesterol antioxidant supplement may be advisable.
Testosterone Levels and PCT
Like most anabolic steroids and Nandrolone compounds, Dinandrol can suppress natural testosterone production significantly. Studies indicate that even a single 100mg injection of Nandrolone can suppress up to 100% of natural testosterone production. Therefore, supplementing with exogenous testosterone is crucial for men using Dinandrol to avoid unhealthy low testosterone levels.
Without exogenous testosterone, individuals risk experiencing bothersome symptoms associated with low testosterone levels. Implementing exogenous testosterone supplementation ensures sufficient testosterone levels to maintain health. The choice of testosterone form is not critical; the priority is to provide the body with the testosterone it needs.
After discontinuing Dinandrol and other anabolic steroids, natural testosterone production resumes, but recovery to previous levels takes time. Hence, a Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) program is recommended to stimulate natural testosterone production, protect health, and facilitate recovery. While PCT won’t immediately restore testosterone levels to their peak, it aids in quicker recovery and ensures adequate testosterone for proper bodily functions.
It’s important to note that successful natural testosterone recovery relies on proper anabolic steroid use practices and no pre-existing low testosterone condition.
Liver
There is no danger to the liver form Dinandrol.
How to take Dinandrol
Dinandrol doses vary based on intended use. For therapeutic benefits, 100mg per week suffices, while athletes may opt for 200mg per week for enhanced endurance and recovery, even during cutting cycles.
In the off-season, athletes typically use 300-600mg per week, with 300mg per week serving as a good starting point. Higher doses up to 600mg per week can be considered if well-tolerated, but the risk of side effects increases with higher doses. Most men won’t need more than 400mg per week.
Regardless of the dose, Dinandrol should be injected at least twice weekly to maintain consistent blood levels. A duration of eight to twelve weeks is recommended, with some men tolerating use for up to sixteen weeks. Dinandrol stacks well with other anabolic steroids but not with other Nandrolone compounds.
For female athletes, a dose of 50mg per week for 4-6 weeks is the maximum recommended, with at least six weeks of no use between cycles. Doses exceeding 50mg per week increase the risk of virilization. Each woman’s tolerance varies.
Conclusion
Compared to other Nandrolone hormones and anabolic steroids, Dinandrol has limited utility in today’s context. Single ester variations of steroids are preferred for maintaining stable Nandrolone levels in the body. However, Dinandrol remains a well-tolerated steroid ideal for building robust muscle mass.
Raw Data
- Nandrolone Base + 2 esters (19-nor-androst-4-en-3-one-17beta-ol)
- Manufacturer: Xelox
- Formula (base): C18 H26 O2
- Formula (esters):
- Phenylpropionate: C9 H10 O2
- Decanoate: C10 H20 O2
- Molecular Weight (base): 274.4022
- Molecular Weight (esters):
- Phenylpropionate: 150.174
- Decanoate: 172.2668
- Melting Point (base): 122-124C
- Effective Dose (Men): 200-600mg/week
- Effective Dose (Women): 50mg/week
- Active life: 15 days
- Detection Time: Up to 18 months
- Anabolic / Androgenic ratio: 37:125
