What is Andro?

Androstenedione is an androgenic pro-hormone similar to DHEA, which is naturally produced in the bodies of both men and women. Androstenedione is the next metabolic step down from DHEA and only one step away from testosterone.

Why should I use Andro?

Similar to DHEA and Tribulus Terrestris, androstenedione may help enhance the body's natural testosterone production. Testosterone is vital because it plays many key roles in our bodies including building muscle size and strength. Athletes are using androstenedione to help ensure that their levels of this natural hormone are at normal levels at all times. This can thus ensure that testosterone levels are maintained through a natural platform without the use of dangerous drugs like steroids and help give athletes that natural edge they are looking for. Contact an ISSA or Parrillo Certified Personal Trainer at Powerhouse Supplements for additional information on products, articles, nutrition, or training.

What research has been done on Andro?

There have been various studies done on androstenedione and its effects on testosterone levels. One study examined the effects of 100mg of oral DHEA versus 100 mg of androstenedione. The study reported that test subjects, in this case females, ingesting the androstenedione, had significantly higher levels of testosterone than those taking DHEA.

Other follow-up studies seem to support this study, however, the increases in testosterone, while seen in both male and female subjects, seems to be higher in the female subject versus their male counterparts. To date there have been no studies done to determine what effects this increase in testosterone levels has on body composition and athletic performance.

What doses of Andro should be taken?

As evidenced by research, androstenedione causes a temporary elevation in testosterone levels, usually about 2-3 hours. As a result of this data, many athletes take androstenedione an hour before training in an effort to promote its testosterone enhancing effects. Usually doses of 50mg at a time are taken, whether twice daily, morning and night, or three times daily, morning, noon and night, this dose seems to be safe and effective. No scientific studies have yet been done as to when androstenedione should be taken for optimal results. Users of androstenedione should not exceed more than 200mg per day.

What side effects are caused by Andro?

Like DHEA, because androstenedione causes an elevation in testosterone, possible side effects might include acne, oily skin and an increased sex drive. In overly high doses, "aromatization" might occur. This is a process whereby excess testosterone is converted to estrogen, which could lead to an adverse reaction called gynocomastia. Thus, as stated above, users should not exceed 200mg per day.

In addition, androstenedione is NOT recommended for women. Also any person suffering from any medical condition including, but not limited to, prostate hypertrophy, hormonal abnormalities, diabetes, heart disease, psychological disorders etc., should NOT use androstenedione. In addition, this supplement should not be used by pregnant or lactating women or persons under the age of 18.

Should I cycle Andro?

Similar to DHEA, prolonged use of androstenedione may cause the body to down-regulate the effects of androstenedione and/or slow production of its own androstenedione. Therefore, cycling androstenedione might be advantageous. Androstenedione can be used 3 weeks on and 1-3 weeks off, or 4-6 weeks on and 3-6 weeks off. As is the case with all supplementation, better judgment is the key to success. Knowing your body and its limits is as crucial to proper supplementation as it is to proper training.

Note: In the US Andro is against the law and no longer legal to buy or use.

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