The Story of Turinabol: From Olympic Glory to Illicit Use
Often misspelled as 'turinse', Turinabol is the brand name for the anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) Chlorodehydromethyltestosterone (CDMT). Developed in the 1960s in East Germany by Jenapharm, its creation was part of a state-sponsored initiative to enhance athletic performance, particularly in the Olympics. This program, 'State Plan 14.25', involved giving Turinabol to thousands of athletes, often without their consent and disguised as vitamins, leading to significant success in competitions but also severe long-term health issues for the athletes. Although discontinued in 1994, Turinabol is still found on the black market and in anti-doping tests.
Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action
Turinabol is a modified version of Dianabol, derived from testosterone. Its chemical structure includes a double bond at the 1-2 carbon position and a chlorine atom at the 4-position. These modifications result in enhanced anabolic effects, stimulating protein synthesis and increasing nitrogen retention for muscle growth, while reducing androgenic (masculinizing) activity compared to testosterone. Turinabol also does not aromatize (convert to estrogen), which prevents estrogen-related side effects like water retention and gynecomastia, leading to 'dry' muscle gains. Being a 17-alpha-alkylated steroid, it's orally bioavailable but also hepatotoxic (damaging to the liver).
Use in Bodybuilding and Athletics
Despite being banned by major sports organizations like WADA, Turinabol is used in bodybuilding for several reasons. It is favored for producing lean muscle gains without the water retention often seen with other steroids, making it useful for achieving a defined physique or preserving muscle during cutting phases. It can also enhance strength without significant weight gain, which is advantageous in weight-class sports. Some also consider it for beginner oral steroid cycles due to its milder androgenic profile. Illicit use often involves cycle management to try and reduce liver strain.
Comparison: Turinabol vs. Dianabol
A comparison between Turinabol and its derivative, Dianabol, highlights their differences:
| Feature | Turinabol (CDMT) | Dianabol (Methandrostenolone) |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Gains | Lean, dry, high-quality gains | Rapid, bulky gains with water retention |
| Aromatization | Does not convert to estrogen | Aromatizes, causing water retention & gynecomastia risk |
| Strength Gains | Moderate to high | Very high, often accompanied by water weight |
| Androgenic Effects | Low risk of acne, hair loss | Higher risk of androgenic side effects |
| Liver Toxicity | Moderate to high (17-aa) | High (17-aa) |
| Primary Use | Cutting, lean bulking, strength without mass | Off-season bulking for mass and strength |
Significant Health Risks and Side Effects
Despite its perception as a mild steroid, Turinabol carries serious health risks.
Liver Damage (Hepatotoxicity)
As a 17-alpha-alkylated oral steroid, Turinabol is toxic to the liver, potentially leading to elevated liver enzymes and other serious conditions with prolonged use.
Cardiovascular Strain
Turinabol negatively affects cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and subsequent heart attack and stroke.
Testosterone Suppression
Turinabol suppresses the body's natural testosterone production, resulting in low testosterone levels, fatigue, low libido, and other issues after use. Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) is often needed to help restore hormone levels.
Legal Status
In the U.S., Turinabol is a Schedule III controlled substance, making unauthorized possession a federal crime. It's not FDA-approved and is only available through illegal sources. Its legal status is similar in many other countries, and it is banned in all competitive sports by WADA.
Conclusion
Turinabol (CDMT), often misspelled as 'turinse', was initially developed for state-sponsored athletic enhancement and is known for promoting lean muscle and strength with fewer estrogenic and androgenic side effects than some other oral steroids. However, its use is associated with significant risks, including liver damage, negative cardiovascular effects, and suppression of natural hormone production. It is illegal in most countries and banned in competitive sports. The history of Turinabol serves as a stark reminder of the potential health consequences of seeking performance advantages through illicit means.
For more information on the history of state-sponsored doping, you can visit PBS's page on the topic.
