Mestanolone

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

An androgen and anabolic steroid


Mestanolone
[[File:
Structural formula of Mestanolone
|frameless|220px|alt=|]]
INN
Drug class Androgen; Anabolic steroid
Routes of administration Oral
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number 521-11-9
PubChem
DrugBank
ChemSpider
KEGG


Mestanolone, also known by its brand name Androstalone, is an androgen and anabolic steroid (AAS) that is used in the treatment of low testosterone levels in men. It is a synthetic derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and is known for its potent androgenic effects.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Mestanolone is an orally active androgen and anabolic steroid. It is a 17α-methylated derivative of DHT, which allows it to be taken orally. The compound binds to the androgen receptor, leading to the expression of androgenic effects. Due to its structure, mestanolone is not aromatized into estrogens, which means it does not cause estrogenic side effects such as gynecomastia.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Mestanolone acts by binding to the androgen receptor in target tissues. This binding initiates a cascade of events that result in the transcription of androgen-responsive genes. The effects include increased protein synthesis, muscle growth, and the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Mestanolone is primarily used in the treatment of male hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low testosterone levels. It may also be used in certain cases of delayed puberty in boys and to treat breast cancer in women, although these uses are less common.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

The side effects of mestanolone are similar to those of other androgens and anabolic steroids. They include:

  • Acne
  • Increased body hair growth
  • Scalp hair loss
  • Increased aggression
  • Liver toxicity due to its 17α-methylation

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Mestanolone is a 17α-methylated derivative of dihydrotestosterone. Its chemical structure is characterized by the presence of a methyl group at the 17α position, which enhances its oral bioavailability. The compound is a white crystalline powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents.

History[edit | edit source]

Mestanolone was first synthesized in the 1950s and has been used in clinical practice since then. It was developed as a means to provide the benefits of testosterone therapy with oral administration, avoiding the need for injections.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD