Dimethandrolone (DMA) - A Breakthrough in Anabolic Steroids

Dimethandrolone (DMA) represents a groundbreaking development in the realm of anabolic androgenic steroids, demonstrating remarkable potential for both androgen replacement therapy and male contraception. While its human testing phase has spanned only a few years, the journey of DMA's development dates back over two decades, originating from the United States Contraceptive Development Branch of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. The invention of dimethandrolone dates back to 1997 when a patent was filed, later granted in 1999. Subsequently, a patent including the undecanoate and buciclate esters was filed in 2002 and granted in 2003.

The Nomenclature and Association

Analyzing the nomenclature, particularly the "19-nortestosterone" component, reveals that Dimethandrolone belongs to the nortestosterone (progesterone) family, alongside nandrolones (e.g., Deca-Durabolin) and trenbolones (e.g., Parabolan). This association provides insights into the compound's characteristics.

Impact on Gonadotropins

It's important to note that DMA is expected to suppress natural gonadotropins, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Such inhibition affects sperm production and testosterone synthesis, similar to the well-known effects of nandrolones and trenbolones. However, this dual impact on gonadotropins can potentially lead to sexual dysfunction, a concern that needs to be addressed for a male contraceptive to be effective.

Progestins and Contraceptive Effects

Progestins, like DMA, are recognized for their contraceptive effects, including the suppression of sperm production. Nevertheless, they can also be associated with sexual dysfunction. This aspect highlights the challenge of developing a male contraceptive that avoids hindering sexual activity, an essential consideration for its success. Progestins can also aromatize and convert to dihydrogenated forms, making them detectable on standard doping tests. This may motivate scientists to explore this family of steroids for male birth control, as they are less likely to attract athletes seeking doping advantages.

Delivery Methods

Further examination of the base chemical (exclusive of the ester) reveals that DMA is non-methylated, typically indicating its suitability for parenteral use (injections). DMA with the undecanoate ester (DMAU) represents an exception to this rule. The undecanoate ester, characterized by its length, transforms DMA into a viscous liquid, enabling oral administration in gelcap form, often combined with castor oil. This route of administration bypasses first-pass metabolism through the liver, utilizing the lymphatic system for absorption. Notably, other steroids, such as testosterone undecanoate (Andriol), employ a similar delivery method.

Clinical Studies and Safety

Compared to methyltestosterone and other orally administered steroids, Andriol and DMAU demonstrate lower hepatotoxicity, indicating reduced liver stress. However, it's essential to note that oral delivery of anabolic steroids, while more convenient, can be less efficient and more costly than injectable forms.

Clinical studies involving DMAU at various doses and carrier vehicles have yielded significant insights. High doses of DMAU led to reduced hormone levels necessary for conception, confirming its effectiveness as a contraceptive. Additionally, all groups experienced weight gain and a decrease in HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. Importantly, the safety tests for liver and kidney function returned normal results, demonstrating the compound's safety profile. While testosterone levels were notably reduced, sexual dysfunction was not reported.

The recommendation to consume DMAU with fatty meals is based on evidence from Andriol studies, which showed improved absorption when taken with food rich in fat.

Notably, DMA does not appear to convert to estrogen through aromatization, but its progestin properties can produce side effects similar to aromatizable steroids. As it lowers both testosterone and estrogen levels, it may impact sexual function. However, clinical trials with DMAU did not report sexual dysfunction. Moreover, DMA is unlikely to convert to dihydrogenated forms, reducing the risk of side effects associated with dihydrotestosterone.

Potential Future Developments

Although rodent data suggests high androgenic and anabolic ratings for DMA and DMAU, these figures do not necessarily translate directly to human effects. Moreover, real-world feedback on the use of DMA and DMAU in bodybuilding or athletic settings is currently unavailable.

It's reasonable to anticipate that DMAU may eventually appear on the black market through underground labs, likely in injectable form. If it enters the legitimate pharmaceutical market, some users may prefer to convert gelcap contents into sterile oil solutions for injection. However, it's essential to emphasize the responsibility and readiness required for steroid use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dimethandrolone (DMA) and Dimethandrolone Undecanoate (DMAU) represent exciting advancements in androgen replacement therapy and male contraception. While challenges exist, such as the potential for sexual dysfunction, these compounds hold promise in offering effective contraceptive solutions with manageable side effects. As research continues and real-world usage data becomes available, the future of DMA and DMAU in the field of anabolic steroids and hormone therapy remains intriguing and worthy of exploration.