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Androstenedione is a steroid with anabolic androgenic properties. It is a naturally occurring substance that assists in the body's production of testosterone. It can be artificially administered orally, nasally or by injection. It is a metabolite of DHEA (dehydroepiandro-sterone).
Manufacturers claim that androstenedione can help build muscle bulk and maximise the benefits of heavy training by increasing testosterone levels from 100% to 300%. It also claims to increase libido in males. One well-conducted scientific trial, recently reported, throws significant doubts on these claims.
Possible side effects of androstenedione include liver damage, development of breast tissue in men, menstrual disturbances, hair loss, deepened voice, acne and infertility.
Androstenedione is prohibited as an anabolic agent under the World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (in effect 1/1/07) because of its anabolic properties.
This page last updated Tuesday, January 22, 2008
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