androstenedione

Androstenedione is a naturally occurring steroid hormone produced in the adrenal glands and gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females). It serves as a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of testosterone and estrogens (estrone and estradiol), acting as a precursor to these sex hormones depending on tissue type. Androstenedione has been marketed as an oral supplement with claims of boosting testosterone levels to enhance athletic performance, muscle growth, energy levels, red blood cell production, recovery from exercise, sexual desire/performance. However, scientific evidence supporting these effects is limited or inconclusive. Androstenedione is classified as an anabolic steroid under U.S. law since 2005 due to its potential for misuse in sports; it is banned by major sporting organizations including WADA and NCAA[2][4][8]. Its mechanism involves conversion by enzymes such as hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases into testosterone or estrogens[1][3][6].

Other names

androandrosteneandrost-4-ene-3,17-dioneandrostenedionaandrosténédione