Side Effects of Dianabol

Dianabol is the commercial name of methandrostenolone, a type of oral anabolic steroid. Methandrostenolone is a synthetic version of the hormone testosterone that is responsible for the development of male reproductive organs and male secondary sexual characteristics. Anabolic steroids such as Dianabol promote muscle growth and other male characteristics, and are sometimes abused by athletes seeking to improve athletic ability. Dianabol and other anabolic steroids can cause severe side effects, however.

Cardiovasular Risks

Dianabol and other anabolic steroids can cause dangerous cardiovascular risks. The steroid increases low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which known as the LDL or "bad" cholesterol, and decreases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which is referred to as HDL or "good" cholesterol, reports the National Institute on Drug Abuse 1. Dianabol can also cause high blood pressure. These changes to cholesterol and blood pressure increase the risk of heart attack and other heart diseases. Enlargement of the left ventricle of the heart has also been linked to steroid abuse.

Changes to Appearance

Major Side Effects of Winstrol in Men

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Steroids such as Dianabol often cause cases of severe acne, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration 2. Abuse of Dianabol can also cause an oily scalp and thinning of the hair, leading to male-pattern baldness in men and women. In men, Dianabol can cause breast growth and shrinking or atrophy of the testicles. Women who abuse Dianabol can develop excess body hair growth, deepening of the voice and enlargement of the clitoris.

Mood Alterations

The abuse of steroids has been linked to several effects on mood and emotional states. Extreme mood swings, such as mania, rage and aggression that lead to violent outbursts can result from steroid use, reports the National Institute on Drug Abuse 1. Other effects include irritability, nervousness, depression and delusions, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration explains 2.

Additional Side Effects

The Long-Term Effects of Steroids

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Dianabol can also cause liver damage or liver cancer, leading to a yellowing of the skin and eyes known as jaundice. If adolescents abuse Dianabol or other steroids, they may suffer from impaired growth, leading to a short stature later in life. Reduced sexual activity and sterility may also result. Dizziness, headache and nausea have also been reported as side effects, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal.