Introduction

Androstenedione is a steroid hormone that can help the body produce testosterone. It has been used to improve athletic performance and to increase sex drive. Androstenedione can be taken as a pill. It is banned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Dosages

100 milligrams 2 to 3 times daily.

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

  • Athletic performance A1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

Androstenedione is a steroid and may not be safe. It may increase the risk of certain cancers. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children should not use androstenedione.B1

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any alternative therapy or supplements you are taking to make sure it does not interfere with your current treatment.

 

References

A. Athletic Performance

A1. Nissen SL, Sharp RL. Efficacy of dietary supplements on lean mass and strength gains with resistance exercise: a meta-analysis. J Appl Physiol. 2003;94(2):651-659.

B. Safety

B1. 2019-2020 banned substances. NCAA website. Available at: http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/topics/2019-20-ncaa-banned-substances. Accessed July 15, 2019.

Last reviewed October 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC