Androstenedione
Androstenedione is a steroid hormone that is the precursor to testosterone, the steroid hormone associated with masculinity. Androstenedione is produced by the adrenal glands and the gonads and is converted into either testosterone or estrogen within the blood.
How does it enhance performance?
Androstenedione itself has no significant performance-enhancing effect. However, the muscle-building effects of testosterone are well documented. Many scientific studies report that large doses of testosterone significantly increase muscle size and strength. Supplementation with androstenedione, the immediate precursor to testosterone, is believed to elevate blood testosterone levels in both males and females and thus increase muscle mass and physical strength.
Commercial Availability and General Use
Androstenedione supplements are sold in major, health food stores. However, the use of andostenedione supplements is banned by the International Olympic Committee, the National Football League, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
Androstenedione is typically sold in the form of tablets and capsules. It is also available in other forms including gels, skin patches, and chewing gums. Many manufacturers of androstenedione suggest that the supplement be consumed about an hour prior to exercise. Also, many manufacturers suggest cycling the use of the supplement, e.g. "four weeks on/one week off." Cost of the supplement is approximately $15-$40 for a 30-day supply.
Caution
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To date, no studies have indicated that androstenedione has any ergogenic or muscle-building effects in normal, human subjects.
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Androstenedione supplementation may result in elevated concentrations of plasma estrogen. High levels of estrogen have been linked to breast development in men and breast and pancreatic cancer.
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Elevated serum levels of androstenedione have been linked to prostate and pancreatic cancer.
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If androstenedione supplementation does increase testosterone levels, it may lead to the undesirable effects associated with the use of anabolic steroids. For males, such effects include kidney and liver damage, acne, premature baldness, an enlarged prostate, reduced sperm production, and heightened aggression. For females, effects could include a disrupted menstrual cycle, a deepened voice, increased facial hair growth, acne, masculinization, and kidney and liver damage.
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An elevated testosterone level may cause the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland to suppress the body's natural production of testosterone leading to testicular atrophy.
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Androstenedione is particularly detrimental to children and teenagers. An increase in serum androgens in adolescents may lead to stunted growth and severe acne.