Dianabol is one of the most highly efficient mass building anabolic steroids ever created. In fact, it was created for athletes to use to improve performance (although it was claimed to have theraputic ability). It brings almost impressive weight and strength gains for novice and most other users. Experiencing a 2-3kg weight gain per week is not rare, especially in novices. However, it must be noted that alot of this is water weight, and that when taking higher than average dosage, gynecomastia (bitch tits), high blood pressure, and acne could occur. Dianabol when taken orally becomes active very quickly, but only remains active for less than half a day. For this reason, dosages are usually spread throughout the day. Ciba, the original makers of Dianabol claimed that 10 mgs of the product was enough for full androgen replacement in a man and that such dose increased androgen anabolic activity in a body almost 5 times over normal and provided a reduction in natural cortisol activity of between 50-70%. Despite this, many athletes take 50-100mgs daily, and the average dosage for novices is 30-50mg daily. It would appear that over 50mgs/day, there is a point of diminishing return. Because Dianabol (usually called D-bol by athletes) is a 17aa compound, side effects such as increased liver values (toxicity) are to be expected, but they normally return to normal quickly after the athlete stops taking the product. In addition, as previously mentioned, gyno, heavy water retention (and raised blood pressure as a result), and acne are all regularly reported side effects of D-bol use. Some athletes report a sense of well being during use of this drug, which is quite pronounced.