5α-dihydroethisterone

5α-Dihydroethisterone is a synthetic, orally active androgen and anabolic steroid (AAS) which was never marketed. It is a derivative of ethisterone, specifically, the 5α-reduced analogue of ethisterone. This modification significantly increases its androgenicity and makes it much more potent as an androgen and anabolic agent compared to its parent compound. Despite its enhanced profile, 5α-dihydroethisterone has not been developed for clinical use and remains of interest primarily for scientific research and as a reference compound in the study of androgenic and anabolic agents.

Chemistry

5α-Dihydroethisterone belongs to a class of compounds known as steroids, which are organic compounds with four fused rings in a specific molecular configuration. It is specifically a derivative of testosterone, the principal male sex hormone, altered by the addition of an ethyl group at the 17α-position (as in ethisterone) and the reduction of the double bond between the fourth and fifth carbon atoms (the 5α-reduction).

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

As an androgen and anabolic steroid, 5α-dihydroethisterone exerts its effects by binding to and activating the androgen receptor (AR). This interaction promotes the AR's translocation into the nucleus, where it can influence the transcription of genes that regulate the development and maintenance of male characteristics and increase protein synthesis, thereby promoting muscle growth and regeneration.

Metabolism

The metabolism of 5α-dihydroethisterone, like that of other steroids, involves various enzymes and occurs primarily in the liver. The modifications in its structure, compared to testosterone, may affect its metabolic pathways, potentially leading to a different profile of metabolites and activity.

Potential Applications and Research

Although 5α-dihydroethisterone has not been developed for clinical use, its potent androgenic and anabolic properties make it a compound of interest in the research of muscle wasting diseases, male hypogonadism, and other conditions where androgens or anabolic agents might be beneficial. However, the lack of development and clinical data limits its potential applications.

See Also

• Anabolic steroid
• Androgen
• Ethisterone
• Testosterone

5α-dihydroethisterone Resources
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