In the forthcoming article, we will be exploring the best 5 Dianabol stacks that have shown promising results within the bodybuilding community.
Dianabol (Methandrostenolone), a powerful anabolic steroid known for its substantial impact on muscle strength and size, can be paired with various other compounds to amplify effects and achieve specific goals. From classic Dianabol and testosterone stacks to more advanced combinations with Deca Durabolin, we’ll dissect each stack’s components, dosages, and expected outcomes while emphasizing safety precautions and potential side effects. This comprehensive guide will serve as your go-to resource for understanding how to strategically stack Dianabol for optimal results in your bodybuilding journey.
To further amplify strength and accrue additional mass, many bodybuilders advance to stacking Dianabol with other steroids.
A Dianabol stack combines it with another performance-enhancing drug to intensify the effects. Being a mass-building steroid, it’s commonly paired with other bulking agents like Anadrol, Testosterone, and Deca Durabolin, to name a few.
We will delve into the most favored Dianabol stacks that have been in use since bodybuilding’s golden ages up to the present, along with detailed cycle protocols, allowing insight into dosing and duration.
Leading Dianabol Combination Routines
Dianabol and Deca Durabolin
| Week | Deca Durabolin | Dianabol |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 200mg | |
| 2 | 200mg | |
| 3 | 200mg | 10mg/day |
| 4 | 200mg | 10mg/day |
| 5 | 300mg | 10mg/day |
| 6 | 300mg | 15mg/day |
| 7 | 300mg | 15mg/day |
| 8 | 300mg | 15mg/day |
Observation: The advised routine is conservatively dosed; steroid veterans may increase Dianabol to 20 mg daily and Deca to 500 mg weekly.
The combining of Dianabol with Deca Durabolin has been a tried-and-true bulking regimen, with many icons of the era of Arnold Schwarzenegger adopting this approach in their off-season to achieve maximum mass.
Being an oral steroid, Dianabol’s pairing with the injectable Deca Durabolin avoids additional liver strain, which is vital given that Dianabol is known for its liver-toxic effects.
This specific stack should be approached with caution and is recommended for those who have experienced Dianabol before and have well tolerated its effects. Deca Durabolin elevates the potential for size and strength improvements but also increases the suppression of natural testosterone production and can cause increased water retention.
The stack has a reputation for being relatively kind to hair preservation, due to the low androgenic nature of both compounds, which prevents a significant rise in DHT levels.
Potential Adverse Effects
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hepatic stress
- Suppressed testosterone production
- Fluid accumulation
- Gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men)
Recommended Supplements
The following supplements are commonly used to mitigate the negative effects associated with this stack:
- Fish oil, 4 grams per day
- TUDCA, 500 milligrams per day
- Letrozole (optional), 1.25 milligrams every other day
- Dostinex, 0.5 to 1 milligram weekly
Continued use throughout the cycle is suggested.
Fish oil is known to assist in regulating blood pressure, which can rise due to this stack (mainly from Dianabol). This is because many oral steroids, including Dianabol, stimulate hepatic lipase in the liver, consequently reducing HDL cholesterol levels, which provide cardiovascular protection.
Water retention associated with Dianabol can also impact blood pressure negatively, as the heart is forced to pump harder to circulate the extra volume of blood.
TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a bile component that aids in liver recuperation from stress. Providing it in supplement form offers higher doses of this liver-benefiting substance to steroid users.
Given the notoriety of Dianabol as one of the more liver-taxing steroids based on liver function test results, TUDCA supplementation is deemed crucial.
The risk of developing gynecomastia is present when using Dianabol and Deca Durabolin, as Dbol has a tendency to convert into estrogen due to its high aromatizing capacity.
In our practice, the initial measure to prevent gynecomastia involves utilizing an AI (aromatase inhibitor) or a SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulator). Typically, SERMs are preferred due to their lack of adverse impact on cholesterol, thereby not contributing to an increase in blood pressure.
However, when considering progesterone-induced side effects, SERMs like Nolvadex or Clomid can aggravate these issues. Deca Durabolin is known to provoke gyno via increasing progesterone levels, which possess estrogen-like attributes.
When administering this stack, close monitoring of the patient’s nipples is important, and at the first sign of swelling or tissue enlargement, an AI may be introduced to preempt further complications.
Letrozole is a potent AI that effectively inhibits the conversion of testosterone into estrogen.
It is recommended not to use a SERM to reduce the risk of progesterone-induced gynecomastia, which can be caused by Deca Durabolin.
Deca Durabolin is also associated with impotence during a cycle, a consequence of spiking prolactin levels. To balance this effect and maintain sexual health, Dostinex (Cabergoline) is prescribed to regulate prolactin production.
Dianabol and Testosterone
| Week | Testosterone | Dianabol |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 200mg | |
| 2 | 400mg | |
| 3 | 400mg | 10mg/day |
| 4 | 400mg | 10mg/day |
| 5 | 400mg | 20mg/day |
| 6 | 500mg | 20mg/day |
| 7 | 500mg | 30mg/day |
| 8 | 500mg | 30mg/day |
| 9 | 500mg | 20mg/day |
| 10 | 200mg | 20mg/day |
Dianabol and Testosterone were regarded as fierce rivals in the 1950s when Dr. John Ziegler aimed to develop an anabolic steroid more potent than testosterone to help the US Olympic team triumph over their Soviet competitors.
As a result, Dr. Ziegler developed methandrostenolone (Dianabol), which surpassed testosterone in anabolic capabilities while presenting fewer androgenic side effects compared to testosterone.
Dianabol and Testosterone produce similar effects; however, Dianabol tips the scales with its muscle-building properties, while Testosterone has a fat-loss advantage due to its higher androgenic activity.
The primary distinction lies in Dianabol being an oral steroid and Testosterone an injectable, offering a synergistic combination as users effectively augment their regimen with another variant of external testosterone without additional liver toxicity.
This combination ranks among the most effective for accumulating substantial muscle mass and strength.
Testosterone can be incorporated in various esters for this combination, with Enanthate and Cypionate being commonly chosen.
Side Effects
Post-cycle, testosterone suppression becomes more pronounced, necessitating a robust post-cycle therapy to steer clear of persistently low testosterone levels.
Cholesterol levels will see a more significant climb than when taking Dianabol solo, yet the silver lining is that testosterone is likely the steroid least harmful to cardiovascular health. Therefore, cholesterol won’t skyrocket as dramatically as with Dianabol alone.
The likelihood of gynecomastia escalates markedly with this stack due to both steroids’ estrogenic tendencies. Hence, implementing a strong SERM (like Nolvadex) from cycle commencement is critical.
Other androgenic side effects such as oily skin, acne, hair loss, and urination difficulties might occur.
Supplements
- Fish Oil, 4g/day
- TUDCA, 500mg/day
- Nolvadex, 30mg/day
Intended for use throughout the cycle’s duration.
Dianabol and Trenbolone
| Week | Dianabol | Trenbolone |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20mg/day | 150mg/week |
| 2 | 20mg/day | 150mg/week |
| 3 | 30mg/day | 150mg/week |
| 4 | 30mg/day | 150mg/week |
| 5 | 20mg/day | 225mg/week |
| 6 | 20mg/day | 225mg/week |
Note: This stack is advised only for those with significant steroid usage experience, given its potent nature. The suggested dosages are moderate to high and specifically designed for those who are well-acquainted with such substances.
Dianabol and Trenbolone present a more intense and robust combination than Dianabol and Testosterone.
Trenbolone, akin to testosterone, is an injectable steroid. It functions quite differently from Dianabol, as it does not convert to estrogen and thus avoids water retention, leading to a less pronounced overall weight gain. However, Trenbolone’s capacity to add significant lean muscle is on par with Dianabol.
With an androgenic rating of 500, Trenbolone’s androgenic properties are roughly 10 times that of Dianabol, and because of its affinity for androgen receptors, it promotes both lipolysis for fat loss and substantial lean muscle development.
The rationale behind pairing Trenbolone with Dianabol: Trenbolone is a “dry” steroid, while Dianabol is a “wet” steroid.
For those aiming to maximize lean mass gain in the off-season, this stack is beneficial. However, employing it during the summer might be less effective as Dianabol can dissipate Trenbolone’s muscle-defining drying effect.
Nevertheless, this stack is renowned for substantial muscle gains in users.
Side Effects
Liver toxicity is a serious concern with Dianabol alone, though adding Trenbolone does not exacerbate this issue.
Gynecomastia is highly probable with this combination, with Dianabol boosting estrogen and Trenbolone heightening progesterone levels. Progesterone-induced gynecomastia is more likely when paired with an estrogen-increasing steroid like Dianabol.
To prevent gynecomastia, an AI may be the most effective option with this stack, but it can worsen hypertension, which is far from ideal. Those concerned about gynecomastia or prone to high blood pressure might want to avoid this stack.
Hair loss, oily skin, and acne are more likely given Tren’s high androgenicity. These side effects are mostly transient, with post-cycle acne clearing and hair follicles often recovering. However, continued androgenic steroid use can result in more permanent issues.
Assessments of SHBG indicate that testosterone suppression with this cycle is intense, likely leading to a protracted period of recovery for natural testosterone levels post-cycle, even with an effective PCT.
Supplements
- Fish Oil, 4g/day
- TUDCA, 500mg/day
- Letrozole (optional, contingent on normal blood pressure levels), 1.25mg every other day
To be used throughout the entire cycle period.
Dianabol and Anadrol
| Week | Dianabol | Anadrol |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 30mg/day | 50mg/day |
| 2 | 30mg/day | 50mg/day |
| 3 | 30mg/day | 50mg/day |
| 4 | 30mg/day | 75mg/day |
| 5 | 30mg/day | 75mg/day |
| 6 | 30mg/day | 75mg/day |
The cycle noted above is strongly dosed and presumed to be managed by individuals experienced in steroid use, as they are more capable of handling elevated dosages. Beginners should not attempt this stack; intermediate users may opt for reduced doses than those specified above (Dianabol: 20mg and Anadrol: 50mg).
A Dianabol and Anadrol stack is acclaimed for being the pinnacle in achieving sheer size and mass.
If there’s any stack known to be more toxic than Dianabol combined with Trenbolone, it’s this one.
Dianabol and Anadrol are remarkably alike; both are oral steroids, significantly estrogenic, and potent in fostering muscle and strength growth.Both Dianabol and Anadrol are recognized for causing significant water retention as a side effect of their use in bulking phases.
Their molecular composition varies slightly; with Dianabol being a testosterone analog and Anadrol a derivative of dihydrotestosterone.
Dianabol is metabolized into estrogen through aromatase activity, but though Anadrol does not undergo aromatization, it has strong estrogenic effects by directly stimulating estrogen receptors.
Side Effects
This combination presents a high risk of liver toxicity since both Dianabol and Anadrol are orally ingested steroids known to put stress on the liver. Individuals with any liver health issues should abstain from this cycle.
It is advisable to limit the duration of the cycle to lessen the liver impact. Under the condition that no other liver-stressing drugs are consumed, and alcohol is avoided, liver damage can often be reversible post-cycle, with liver health being supported by supplements like TUDCA or milk thistle.
The liver is remarkably resilient, commonly enduring years of misuse before failure. Adequate rest periods between cycles are typically enough for the liver to regenerate and for the enzyme levels to normalize.
However, reactions to steroids vary from person to person, and this particular combination is a stress test for the liver’s fortitude.
Not only is this combination harsh on the liver, but it is also detrimental to cardiac health.
Significant alterations in cholesterol, specifically LDL and HDL, have been observed with these steroids, leading to extreme elevations in blood pressure. Fish oil and consistent cardiovascular exercise are essential to manage blood pressure levels within safe limits. Anyone undergoing this regiment should conduct regular blood check-ups and maintain a healthy heart before starting.
Dianabol and Anadrol rank amongst the most estrogenic steroids available. Anti-aromatase inhibitors are not recommended as they can increase blood pressure without preventing gynecomastia caused by Anadrol. Consequently, a SERM like high dose Nolvadex is usually preferred to diminish the risk of developing breast tissue.
Due to Anadrol being a DHT derivative, it exhibits significant androgenic properties, which can lead to acne vulgaris and hair loss in those predisposed to these conditions.
Post-cycle, the body’s natural testosterone production will cease, and a robust PCT protocol is necessary to mitigate the unavoidable hormonal downturn.
Supplements
- Fish oil, 4 g/day
- TUDCA, 500 mg/day
- Nolvadex, 30 mg/day
These should be taken for the entire duration of the cycle.
Dianabol and Anavar
| Week | Dianabol | Anavar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20mg/day | 10mg/day |
| 2 | 20mg/day | 10mg/day |
| 3 | 30mg/day | 20mg/day |
| 4 | 30mg/day | 20mg/day |
| 5 | 30mg/day | 20mg/day |
| 6 | 30mg/day | 20mg/day |
| 7 | 20mg/day | 10mg/day |
| 8 | 20mg/day | 10mg/day |
Blending Dianabol, a bulking steroid, with Anavar, a cutting steroid, makes for an unconventional stack.
Despite this being an odd pairing, it is often inquired about, so we are addressing it.
Anavar is typically utilized to shed fat, moderately increase muscle, and enhance strength.
Some choose the Dianabol and Anavar combination for an exclusive oral regimen.
Although stacking oral steroids usually magnifies side effects, this particular case presents a safer profile (by steroid standards) due to Anavar’s gentle nature.
So, the stress on the liver and the increase in blood pressure are not dramatically worse than taking Dianabol on its own. It’s popular among both genders due to the negligible side effects noted by men and women who use Anavar.
Combining Dianabol with Anavar can augment lean muscle gain while concurrently trimming fat, which may be appealing as a cycle aimed at accumulating lean mass. Hence, it could be classified as a bulking cycle.
However, for those in a cutting phase concerned about muscle loss, this stack significantly lowers the risk of the body entering a catabolic state compared to taking Anavar solo. Some bodybuilders might accept the trade-off of water weight gain to preserve muscle mass.
While Dianabol typically causes water retention, Anavar has the opposite effect, purging the body of extracellular fluid.
Adding Anavar to the mix could potentially moderate Dianabol’s tendency to cause bloating. Muscle fullness may even improve as Anavar not only assists in shedding fluids but also relocates water into muscle cells, giving them a perpetually full and pumped look.
Note: Intensive pumps associated with Anavar suggest it may be wise to take longer rests between sets when using this stack.
Side Effects
Although Anavar ranks among the less hazardous steroids, it is not exempt from side effects.
Testosterone suppression is more acute when paired with Dianabol than when the latter is used alone. Additional side effects could include accelerated hair thinning and increased liver stress.
Moreover, Anavar comes with a high price tag, which means this stack may not suit those searching for a cost-efficient Dianabol cycle.
Supplements
- Fish oil, 4 g/day
- TUDCA, 500 mg/day
- Nolvadex, 30 mg/day
Guidance for Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) Implementation
It is advisable to implement a PCT for all mentioned stacks to help normalize hormone levels, with an emphasis on testosterone restoration.
The primary PCT options we employ include:
- HCG: Administering 2000 IU every other day for a duration of 20 days.
- Tamoxifen (also known as Nolvadex): Dosage of 2 x 20mg for a period of 45 days.
- Clomiphene (commonly referred to as Clomid): Consuming 2 x 50mg for 30 days.
Should Nolvadex have been used during your cycle, opting for Clomid along with HCG for PCT might be advantageous.
As there is a considerable probability of testosterone decrease with many of these stacks, our advice is to use all the PCT medications concurrently if possible, or at the very least combine HCG with Clomid. This approach tends to be more impactful in comparison to employing a singular medication type.
It’s not uncommon for bodybuilders to source their PCT medications from unregulated markets rather than obtaining a doctor’s prescription. This provides them with the flexibility to self-administer the required dosages at their discretion, free from the constraints of prescription timelines or doctor’s instructions.
Potential of Dianabol Stacks for Lasting Muscle Gains
Upon concluding the cycle, some water weight may be shed, which often leads to a decrease in scale weight. This is particularly noticeable when Dianabol is used alongside other compounds that promote fluid retention, such as Anadrol or Testosterone.
Nonetheless, with regards to preserving lean muscle mass, an individual who diligently continues strength training post-cycle and implements an effective PCT, as previously detailed, stands a good chance of maintaining the majority of their muscle gains.
Overview
The two most effective Dianabol stacks for muscle development are:
- Dianabol paired with Deca Durabolin
- Dianabol paired with Testosterone
The rationale is that both Deca Durabolin and Testosterone effectively enhance the muscle-building capabilities of Dianabol in the off-season, without producing severely adverse reactions.
In spite of the impressive muscular enhancements offered by Anadrol and Trenbolone, they have been associated with serious health complications, particularly affecting the heart and liver.
Combining Anavar with Dianabol might not be synergistic, yet it could serve a purpose for certain individuals under particular circumstances, such as when aiming to preserve muscle mass or strength during a cutting phase.
REFERENCES
(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7076794/
(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31236688/
Dr. Grant Fourie, a specialist in male hormones, is based in Cape Town, South Africa. He provides comprehensive treatments for conditions related to low testosterone, such as erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and mood changes. His methods include hormone replacement therapy and other modern treatment options.
Contact me via email or phone to book personal appointment in my clinic: The Village Square, Cape Town - South Africa
