The first oral steroid available in the US was Nilevar. When Ciba developed Dianabol, Searle developed this drug. This anabolic steroid is often compared with Dianabol as both of them have  almost the same effect when it comes to their anabolic quality, weight gain property and also their propensity to retain water. This was a steroid that produced a dramatic effect for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. This anabolic steroid is also famous for its virilization effect. The virilization effect results in the development of androgynous characters like growth of body hair and deepening of the voice and hence it is not a steroid suitable for women. This drug is also known to cause infertility in women. Nevertheless its androgynous effect on men is only mild. This is an oral steroid and continues to be popular among body builders and athletes. The side effects of taking Nilevar are that it can cause water retention and also produce acne. Nilevar like many anabolic steroids helps stimulates the synthesis of protein and also stops the catabolism of protein which results in the building of muscles. This oral anabolic steroid is not to be taken for a long period of time. The ideal dosage is 20 mg to 40 mg per day. One must start with the minimum dosage of 20mg and gradually increase the dosage.