Androstenedione 101 part 4

Androstenedione Benefits?

When Androstenedione is taken by an individual, it can increase levels of serum testosterone within a few hours. The dose at which androstenedione increases testosterone levels is around 300 mg/day. Any dose lower than 200 mg/day does not increase levels of testosterone. However, there is no correlation between dose of androstenedione and levels of testosterone. Some individuals do show increase in testosterone and others do not- this is believed to be due to the rapid breakdown of testosterone.

Many studies have looked at effects of androstenedione on muscle mass and strength. At the lower doses (less than 100 mg/day), androstenedione has no effects on any organ in the body. At 300 mg per day, the data are controversial because all studies so far have been carried out in a non randomized fashion. Some studies do reveal an increase in muscle mass, and some show no effects. However, at higher then 300-500 mg/day, there are anecdotal reports that the drug does increase body mass. Furthermore, even these studies are conflicting because many individuals were also taking other supplements to promote muscle growth.

Potential Long-Term Risks

Androstenedione as such has no side effects. The side effects occur from conversion to the male sex hormone, testosterone and the female sex hormone, estrogen. The commonly reported side effects in individuals who take high doses of Androstenedione include:

Males

- breast enlargement
- growth of prostate
- risk of prostate cancer
- impotence
- loss of sex drive
- acne
- oily skin
- loss of hair

Females

- growth of facial hair
- deep voice
- enlargement of genitals
- risk of blood clots in the legs
- risk of endometrial cancer
- masculine features

the majority of these side effects reverse when the steroid stopped. some side effects in females are not always reversible.