Androstenedione is a well-known supplement used to mimic the effects of steroids. Androstenedione is shown to increase testosterone levels and may increase strength and lean muscle mass as well as increase the sex drive in men.
Androstenedione has become extremely popular due to the media attention following some high profile athletes who used the products and broke records in their sport. Since then, most athletic organizations have banned the use of Androstenedione because it is a direct precursor to testosterone, including:
• IOC (The International Olympic Committee) • NFL (National Football League) • NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) • Men’s and Women’s Professional Tennis • NABF (North American Boxing Federation) • NGA (National Gym Association)
The exact dosages for Androstenedione have not been determined because of the unknowns of this supplement, but during research, men were given 50-100mg a day and had a significant increase in testosterone levels. Some were up 237%! For strength athletes, it has been shown that when taken one hour before training, you may experience added strength due to the immediate rise in testosterone levels.
Some other supplements may be added to your Androstenedione cycle to increase the benefits such as DHEA, Tribulus, and Chrysin. Zinc is also am important supplement to add because it is a mineral necessary for the natural production of testosterone, which may boost the effects.
Some side effects that have been found in men from the use of Androstenedione are:
• Enlarged prostate • Breast tissue (gynecomastia) • Water retention • Acne • Increased sex drive • Impotence • Increased risk of glandular cancers
It is also recommended that Androstenedione be cycled on and off for periods no longer than 4-8 weeks and followed by 4-8 weeks of off time. Women should not use Androstenedione due to the irreversible side effects such as a deepened voice, enlarged clitoris, and body hair. Androstenedione is made in our bodies and is produced in the adrenal glands and gonads. It can also be found in the pollen of Scotch pine trees.
