DHB – How One of the Most Potent Steroids Was Once Sold at GNC

[Sciroxx]

DHB (Dihydroboldenone), also known as 1-Testosterone, is one of the most intriguing anabolic steroids ever developed. Structurally, it closely resembles testosterone—hence the alternative name-1-Test. For the science-curious, DHB is essentially a derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)---the most potent androgen in the body---that features a subtle but significant modification: a 1(2)-double bond replaces the 4(5)-double bond found in testosterone’s A-ring. This seemingly small change dramatically alters the compound’s anabolic properties, making it both more anabolic and less androgenic than testosterone.

1. Increases Anabolic Activity​

The 1(2)-double bond is known to increase the steroid’s anabolic-to-androgenic ratio. It does so by:

• Enhancing binding affinity to the androgen receptor (AR)
  → This leads to a stronger anabolic response (muscle growth, nitrogen retention, protein synthesis).
• Reducing 5α-reduction susceptibility
  → Unlike testosterone, DHB is not significantly converted to a more androgenic form via 5α-reductase. This limits some androgenic side effects like hair loss or prostate enlargement.

Result:

DHB ends up being more anabolic and less androgenic than testosterone.

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2. Increases Resistance to Aromatization​

Another effect of the 1(2)-double bond is that it blocks aromatization into estrogen. Unlike testosterone, DHB does not convert to estradiol via aromatase.
Result:

No estrogenic side effects (no water retention, no gynecomastia).

A ‘Food Supplement’ That Was Practically Steroid-Level Potent

What’s truly fascinating is that this steroid was sold for years as a dietary supplement, marketed under the label of a “prohormone.” That arguably makes it one of the most powerful supplements ever sold—users were effectively “on the juice” without even knowing it. Of course, this also came with serious implications, especially for younger individuals and women, who are far more vulnerable to the adverse effects of potent androgens. As you've gathered by now, DHB (1-Testosterone) is simply a highly anabolic, non-aromatizing derivative of testosterone.

How Does It Compare to Testosterone?​

• Testosterone: Anabolic:Androgenic ratio ≈ 100:100
• DHB (1-Testosterone): Reported at ~200:100 or higher, depending on the model used

This makes DHB roughly twice as anabolic as testosterone, while carrying relatively lower androgenic activity, translating to potent muscle-building with a somewhat reduced risk of androgenic side effects.

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Why Athletes Choose DHB: A Leaner, Harder Alternative to Tren​

Dihydroboldenone (DHB) delivers powerful metabolic and physique-enhancing effects comparable to Trenbolone, but with a cleaner side effect profile. Unlike Tren, DHB carries no progestogenic activity, which reduces the risk of hormonal complications such as gynecomastia and mood disturbances.
Its unique profile makes it especially appealing to athletes aiming for:

• Solid muscle gains without excessive water retention
• A drier, harder, more vascular appearance
• Improved strength and performance under a calorie-controlled diet

Compared to its parent compound Boldenone, and even more so compared to Testosterone or Nandrolone, DHB causes significantly less water retention, making it ideal for cutting phases, contest prep, and sports requiring an optimal power-to-weight ratio. When paired with a balanced, performance-oriented diet, it delivers results that are dense, dry, and razor-sharp.

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Sciroxx offers pharmaceutical-grade DHB in two precision-engineered versions, each tailored for different goals. Tap each option to explore its benefits, effective cycles, and powerful stack suggestions:

The DHB Blast – DHB in its pure, unesterified form, offering the fastest onset and highest potency per milligram. Ideal for aggressive short cycles and explosive gains.

DHB Cypionate – A long-acting esterified version that ensures stable blood levels and allows less frequent injections, making it perfect for sustained, long-term use and clinically efficient dosing.
Click on each to learn about unique performance profiles, stacking ideas, and proven cycle regimens.

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DHB Side Effects: What to Watch For​

Despite its favorable anabolic-to-androgenic ratio, DHB is still a strong androgen and carries side effect risks:

• Androgenic: Acne, hair loss (in those genetically prone), oily skin
• Cardiovascular: Potential for increased blood pressure and lipid imbalance
• Endocrine: Suppresses natural testosterone production—PCT is essential
• Injection Site Reactions: Some users report post-injection pain (PIP), especially with short esters

DHB does not aromatize into estrogen, so estrogenic side effects like water retention and gynecomastia are unlikely, making it a favorite for those looking to stay lean and dry.