1. The history of Androstenedione
2. What is Androstenedione?
3. How it works
4. What the side effects are
5. What dosage to use
6. Where to buy it

Androstenedione was first synthesized in 1935. In the early 60s, doses were given to women and increased the testosterone levels for a short period of time (a few hours). In the 70's, East German scientists developed a nasal spray version of this drug in order to help some atheletes' performance. This nasal spray was found to have the quickest absorption time, but was very hard on the sinuses. Recently, as you probably know, it has received fame as the "supplement Mark McGwire uses."

Technically, Androstenedione is 4-androstene 3, 17-dione, a naturally occurring steroid hormone found in all meat and in some plant extracts (pollen for example). It is often referred to as an "adrenal androgen" (produced in the adrenal glands); it is also produced in the gonads. It is a precursor to testosterone. In lay terms, it is an anabolic steroid that is sold over-the-counter because of weaknesses in FDA policies. It is converted to testosterone by the liver. It is classified as a dietary supplement. It is referred to as a prohormone.

 How it Works

Once ingested, androstenedione converts to testosterone in the liver. Higher testosterone levels have been found to build muscle mass, decrease recovery time, provide energy, and increase endurance.

The purpose of androstenedione is to raise testosterone levels. Common side effects related to elevated testosterone levels include gland enlargement, gland cancer, hair loss (in men), water retention, impotence, acne, lower natural production of testosterone (in men) , masculinization (in women), increased cholesterol levels, dependency, irritability, aggressiveness, kidney and liver dysfunction, liver tumors, premature closure of growth plates (in adolescents).

While it is almost impossible to take androstenedione without any side effects, 100 mg per day is the optimum dosage. Adolescents should not take it at all because the boost in hormones are very harmful, and they normally have a higher level of testosterone on a daily basis. It would be a waste of money for any one under 25 to take androstenedione, or any prohormones for that matter.

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