4-Andro, also known as 4-androsten-3b-ol-17-one, is a popular prohormone supplement that is touted to help increase muscle mass and strength by boosting testosterone levels. There is some evidence that 4-Andro can increase testosterone, but the effects are relatively mild compared to steroids.
How 4-Andro Works
- 4-Andro is a precursor to the hormone testosterone. After ingesting 4-Andro, the body converts it into testosterone through a two-step process:
- First, 4-Andro is converted into the hormone 4-androstenedione (a prohormone) by the enzyme 3?-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
- Next, 4-androstenedione is converted into testosterone by the enzyme 17?-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
- By providing the body with more raw material (4-Andro) to synthesize testosterone, levels of the hormone may increase to some degree. However, there is considerable variation in how effectively 4-Andro converts to testosterone.
Does 4-Andro Boost Testosterone Levels?
- Several studies have shown that supplementing with 4-Andro can significantly increase blood testosterone concentrations:
- One study found that 200-300mg/day of 4-Andro for 8 weeks increased testosterone levels in healthy men by ~30-40% on average.
- Similar increases have been observed in other studies using doses of 330-660mg/day.
- However, some research indicates there is significant individual variability in response. Some men experience more dramatic increases, while others experience little to no increase.
- The boost in testosterone from 4-Andro tends to be most pronounced when stacking it with other prohormones like androsterone and 1-DHEA. This suggests these compounds have synergistic effects.
Benefits of Increased Testosterone
Increasing testosterone levels with prohormones like 4-Andro may provide benefits such as:
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Enhanced fat loss and lean body mass
- Better athletic performance
- More energy and sex drive
However, the increases in testosterone from 4-Andro tend to be much less than what is observed from cycles of potent
anabolic steroids. The ergogenic effects are more modest.
Side Effects and Safety
- Although generally less toxic than steroids, 4-Andro side effects can include:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Hair loss (if prone)
- Acne (if prone)
- Testicular atrophy
- There are also risks of oxidative damage to the liver and heart at higher doses.
- It's important to cycle 4-Andro and allow the body to normalize hormone levels between cycles. Using testosterone boosters that contain compounds to support liver and heart health is also recommended.
If you're considering prohormones like 4-Andro, have your hormone levels tested first to identify any deficiencies or imbalances. The medical providers at Balance Hormone Clinic() specialize in testing and treating hormonal disorders, deficiencies, and imbalances in men and women. Contact them today for a consultation.
In summary, evidence indicates
4-Andro can significantly increase
testosterone levels by serving as a metabolic precursor to testosterone synthesis in the body. However, there is considerable individual variability in response. While increased testosterone from 4-Andro may translate to some benefits like increased lean mass, strength, and fat loss, the boost is relatively mild compared to traditional steroids. Care should be taken to monitor health markers and side effects when using this or any other hormone-altering supplement. As always, speak to your healthcare provider before starting any new workout supplement, especially ones that alter hormonal balance.
