Androstenedione

How does Androstenedione work?

Androstenedione is a steroid hormone used by the body to make testosterone and estrogen.

Are there safety concerns?

Androstenedione probably isn't safe for anyone. Some side effects experienced by men include: reduced sperm production, shrunken testicles, painful or prolonged erections, breast development, behavioral changes, heart disease, and others. Women might experience masculinization, which includes deepening of the voice, facial hair growth, acne, abnormal menstrual periods, male-pattern baldness, coarsening of the skin, and depression. It can also increase the risk of cancers of the breast, prostate, or pancreas. Androstenedione is poisonous to the liver.

In children, androstenedione might stop bone growth and lead to decreased adult height, as well as early onset of puberty.

There is some concern that the strength and purity of androstenedione products can differ from the product labeling.

Do not take androstenedione if:

• You are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• You have a hormone sensitive condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
• You have a hormone sensitive cancer such as breast, uterine, ovarian, or prostate cancer.
• You have liver disease.