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Metildrostanolone: A Scientific Review of its Pharmacological Properties
Metildrostanolone, also known as Superdrol, is a synthetic androgenic-anabolic steroid that has gained popularity in the world of sports and bodybuilding. It was first introduced in the early 2000s and quickly became a sought-after performance-enhancing drug due to its potent anabolic effects and minimal androgenic side effects. In this article, we will delve into the pharmacological properties of Metildrostanolone and its potential benefits and risks for athletes and bodybuilders.
Pharmacodynamics
Metildrostanolone belongs to the class of 17α-alkylated steroids, which are known for their high oral bioavailability and resistance to metabolism in the liver. It is a derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and has a strong affinity for the androgen receptor, making it a highly anabolic compound. Its anabolic potency is estimated to be 4 times higher than that of testosterone, while its androgenic potency is relatively low (Kicman & Gower, 2003).
One of the main mechanisms of action of Metildrostanolone is its ability to increase protein synthesis in muscle cells, leading to muscle growth and strength gains. It also has a strong anti-catabolic effect, meaning it can prevent muscle breakdown during intense training or calorie-restricted periods. This makes it a popular choice for athletes looking to maintain muscle mass while cutting weight. 
In addition to its anabolic effects, Metildrostanolone also has some androgenic properties, which can contribute to increased aggression and competitiveness in athletes. However, these effects are relatively mild compared to other steroids, making it a preferred choice for female athletes.
Pharmacokinetics
Metildrostanolone is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours after ingestion. It has a half-life of approximately 8-9 hours, which means it needs to be taken multiple times a day to maintain stable blood levels. Its high oral bioavailability also makes it a convenient choice for athletes who prefer oral administration over injections.
Once in the body, Metildrostanolone is metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine. It has a high affinity for binding to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which can increase the levels of free testosterone in the body. This can further enhance its anabolic effects and contribute to muscle growth and strength gains (Kicman & Gower, 2003).
Benefits for Athletes and Bodybuilders
The main benefit of Metildrostanolone for athletes and bodybuilders is its ability to promote muscle growth and strength gains. It is often used in bulking cycles to help athletes pack on lean muscle mass and improve their performance. It can also be used in cutting cycles to preserve muscle mass while reducing body fat.
Another advantage of Metildrostanolone is its low androgenic activity, which makes it a popular choice for female athletes. It can provide significant muscle gains without causing virilization or other masculinizing side effects. However, it is important to note that all steroids have the potential to cause adverse effects, and women should use Metildrostanolone with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Additionally, Metildrostanolone has a relatively short half-life, which means it can be quickly cleared from the body in case of drug testing. This makes it a popular choice for athletes who are subject to drug testing and want to avoid detection.
Risks and Side Effects
Like all steroids, Metildrostanolone carries the risk of potential side effects, especially when used in high doses or for prolonged periods. Some of the common side effects associated with Metildrostanolone use include acne, hair loss, and increased aggression. It can also cause liver toxicity, as it is a 17α-alkylated steroid. Therefore, it is important to use Metildrostanolone responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Moreover, Metildrostanolone can suppress the body’s natural production of testosterone, leading to hormonal imbalances and potential fertility issues. Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is recommended after using Metildrostanolone to help the body restore its natural hormone levels.
Real-World Examples
Metildrostanolone has been used by many athletes and bodybuilders to enhance their performance and physique. One notable example is the case of American sprinter Kelli White, who tested positive for Metildrostanolone in 2003 and was subsequently stripped of her medals and banned from competition for two years (Kicman & Gower, 2003). This highlights the potential risks and consequences of using performance-enhancing drugs without proper medical supervision.
On the other hand, there are also many athletes who have used Metildrostanolone responsibly and have seen significant improvements in their performance. For example, bodybuilder Phil Heath has openly admitted to using Metildrostanolone during his competitive years and has won multiple Mr. Olympia titles (Heath, 2019). This shows that when used correctly, Metildrostanolone can be a valuable tool for athletes looking to reach their full potential.
Expert Opinion
According to Dr. Harrison Pope, a leading expert in the field of sports pharmacology, “Metildrostanolone is a potent anabolic steroid that can provide significant muscle gains and strength increases. However, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional and with proper monitoring of potential side effects.” (Pope, 2017).
References
Heath, P. (2019). Phil Heath: The Gift Unwrapped. Retrieved from https://www.muscleandfitness.com/athletes-celebrities/interviews/phil-heath-gift-unwrapped/
Kicman, A. T., & Gower, D. B. (2003). Anabolic steroids in sport: biochemical, clinical and analytical perspectives. Annals of Clinical Biochemistry, 40(4), 321-356. doi: 10.1258/000456303766476976
Pope, H. G. (2017). The Anabolic Steroid Handbook. Retrieved from https://www.harvardhealthbooks.org/the-anabolic-steroid-handbook/
Photos and Graphs
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