Genabol, also known as Norbolethone, is a synthetic and orally active anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that was developed in 1966 by Wyeth Laboratories but never marketed. It was intended for use as an agent to promote weight gain and for the treatment of short stature. Despite its development and potential applications, Genabol was never officially manufactured as a prescription medication, although it was used in clinical trials in 2.5 mg tablets. There were allegations of its use during the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Genabol is similar to the anabolic steroid Deca-Durabolin, though it is a slightly weaker oral derivative with very similar actions. It’s important to note that Norbolethone was eventually discontinued due to concerns about its potential toxicity .
How is it administered?
Norbolethone (Genabol) is an orally active compound, meaning it was designed to be taken by mouth. During its development and clinical trials, it was administered in the form of tablets. The typical form for such compounds involves pills or capsules that are ingested, with the drug then absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. However, as it was never officially marketed or widely distributed for medical use, specific dosage recommendations and administration protocols were not established for broader clinical application. In its trials and theoretical use, it would have been taken as directed by a healthcare provider, with dosages tailored to the specific needs and health conditions of the patient.
What are the side effects of Genabol?
The specific side effects of Norbolethone (Genabol) are not widely documented due to its limited clinical use and the fact that it was never commercially marketed. However, as an anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS), it would be expected to have side effects similar to those associated with other AAS. These side effects can vary based on the individual’s health, the dosage taken, and the duration of use. Common side effects associated with anabolic steroids include, but are not limited to:
- Liver damage or liver tumors
- Changes in cholesterol levels (increased LDL and decreased HDL)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack and stroke
- Hormonal imbalances, leading to side effects such as gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men), testicular atrophy, and changes in menstrual cycles
- Acne and oily skin
- Hair loss or growth of facial hair in women
- Psychological effects, including aggression, mood swings, and psychiatric disorders
Given that Norbolethone was discontinued due to concerns about its potential toxicity, there might have been specific toxicities or adverse effects that led to its discontinuation. However, without detailed clinical studies or widespread use data, the full spectrum of its side effects remains largely speculative and based on the general profile of similar anabolic steroids.
Genabol and the liver
Norbolethone (Genabol) is a 17α-alkylated anabolic steroid (17aa), which means it has been modified at the 17th carbon position to survive oral ingestion by being more resistant to being broken down in the liver. This structural alteration allows it to be taken orally and still remain effective. However, this characteristic also tends to increase the potential for hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity) because it makes the compound more difficult for the liver to metabolize, leading to increased stress on the liver over time. The 17α-alkylation is a common feature among many oral anabolic steroids designed to be effective when taken by mouth, but it is also associated with a higher risk of side effects related to liver damage compared to their non-17α-alkylated counterparts.
- Manufacturer: Wyeth Laboratories in Philadelphia, PA - Molecular Weight: 316.47758 [g/mol] - Formula: C21H32O2 - Effective Dose (Men): 10-15 mg/day - Effective Dose (Women): 5 mg/day - Half-Life: Approx. 8-10 Hours - Detection Time: Unknown - Anabolic/Androgenic Ratio: 350/17 - 13-ethyl-17-hydroxy-18,19-dinor-17-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one
Genabol and muscle mass
Norbolethone (Genabol) is an anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) designed to promote muscle growth and weight gain. As an anabolic steroid, it has properties that facilitate increased protein synthesis and nitrogen retention in muscle tissue, which are key processes in muscle growth and recovery. However, the specific efficacy of Norbolethone in muscle building, compared to other anabolic steroids, has been less documented in scientific literature due to its limited clinical use and the fact that it was never marketed for medical or other uses.
Anecdotal reports and limited studies from its development phase suggest that Norbolethone is effective in increasing lean muscle mass and strength, characteristics shared by many AAS. However, its effectiveness can vary based on several factors, including the dosage, the individual’s physiology, diet, and exercise regimen. It is important to note that while anabolic steroids can enhance muscle growth and physical performance, their use comes with significant health risks, including potential liver toxicity, cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects.
Given that Norbolethone was discontinued and has a history of limited clinical and non-clinical use, direct comparisons with more widely used and studied anabolic steroids are challenging. The potential for side effects, particularly liver toxicity due to its 17α-alkylated structure, would also be a critical factor to consider in its overall assessment as a muscle-building agent.