Androstenedione is a steroid hormone and a precursor to the hormones androgen and estradiol. It used to be a legal supplement taken by athletes seeking to increase muscle mass, though the American Cancer society reports that there's no evidence to support its effectiveness for that purpose, and that its use could actually have deleterious effects. In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued warnings to distributors of androstenedione supplements, which were typically sold in health food stores, and the Anabolic Steroid Control Act banned their use.
Feminizing Effects in Men
Though steroid hormones are typically used to bolster manly physiques, they can have quite the opposite effect. The American Cancer Society states that, rather than increasing testosterone levels, androstenedione use has been found to increase male estrogen levels. The use of androstenedione has been linked to testicular atrophy, along with male breast enlargement. Impotence and infertility may result from continued used of the steroid.
Liver Complications
The liver is responsible for filtering toxins from the bloodstream, and prolonged exposure to toxins can lead to liver dysfunction. The liver has been identified as one of the organs damaged by steroid use. According to Dr. Raymond Chung of Massachusetts General Hospital, androstenedione has been linked with jaundice, both benign and malignant liver tumors, and cholestasis, a condition in which bile flow from the liver is impaired.
Cancer
Long-term use of androstenedione may alter the normal hormone levels and lead to various forms of cancer. The American Cancer Society cites evidence linking androstenedione use with the occurrence of prostate cancer, and the FDA states that it may increase the risk of endometrial cancer and breast cancer in women.
Masculinizing Effects in Women
Women who take androstenedione may experience the development of male characteristics that detract from the aesthetic gains made by abiding by a strict exercise routine. The FDA lists male pattern baldness, facial hair growth, enlargement of the clitoris, abnormal menstrual periods and voice deepening among the possible effects of androstenedione use by women.
References
- Food and Drug Administration: HHS Launches Crackdown on Products Containing Andro
- American Cancer Society: Bodybuilding Supplement Harmful?
- "World Journal of Gastroenterology"; Anabolic Steroid Abuse Causing Recurrent Hepatic Adenomas and Hemorrhage; Nicole M. Martin, et al.; July 2008
- "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition"; Adulterated Androstenedione: What FDA's Action against Andro Means for Industry; Richard D. Collins and Alan H. Feldstein; May 2004
