Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:
- 1,5alpha-Androsten-3,17-dione (1AD), 1,5alpha-androsten-3beta,17beta-diol, 19-norandrostenediol, 19-norandrostenedione, 3beta,17beta-androstenediol (AD), 4-androstenediol, 5-androstenediol, (Adiol), alpha-androstenediol, "Andro" prohormones, androstenediol 3-sulfate (ADIOLS), androstenediol glucuronide (3alpha-diol-G), androstenedione, beta-androstenediol, dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA metabolite, methyl androstenediol.
Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness
Brief Background:
- Testosterone prohormones, such as androstenediol, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), have been marketed as testosterone-enhancing and muscle-building nutritional supplements for the past decade. They have recently become more readily available in many countries through the internet (1;2;3;4;5;6).
- Androstenediol and other prohormones have been shown to increase androgen prohormone, testosterone, and estradiol levels in humans (2;3;4;5;6;7;8). However, despite promotional claims, studies have not demonstrated bodybuilding or sexually enhancing effects with prohormone supplements like androstenediol.
- Research indicates that the bioavailablity of orally-administered androstenediol is poor due to the first pass metabolism of some of these products through the liver (9;10).
- Prohormone supplements, including androstenediol, are associated with potentially harmful side effects, including abnormal estrogen and testosterone levels, dyslipidemia, and the potential to contribute to cancerous cell growth and proliferation (2;3;11).
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Dosing/Toxicology
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Precautions/Contraindications
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Interactions
Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.
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Mechanism of Action
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History
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Evidence Table
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Evidence Discussion
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Products Studied
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Author Information
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References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
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