Methylhydroxynandrolone

Methylhydroxynandrolone (MHN) is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) and a 17α-alkylated derivative of nandrolone (19-nortestosterone). It was brought to market, for a brief period, by the pharmaceutical company Syntex Corporation under the brand name Oranabol.

History

Methylhydroxynandrolone was first described in the scientific literature in 1960. It was developed by Syntex Corporation, a pharmaceutical company known for its pioneering work in the development of oral contraceptives and other drugs. Despite its promising profile as an anabolic steroid, MHN was not widely adopted in clinical medicine.

Pharmacology

As an AAS, Methylhydroxynandrolone has both anabolic and androgenic properties. Its anabolic effects include growth of muscle mass and strength, increased bone density and strength, and stimulation of linear growth and bone maturation. Its androgenic effects include maturation of the sex organs, particularly the penis and the formation of the scrotum in the fetus, and after birth (usually at puberty) a deepening of the voice, growth of the beard and axillary hair.

Side Effects

Like other AAS, Methylhydroxynandrolone can have numerous side effects, especially when used in excess or for prolonged periods. These can include liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and effects on mood and mental health. In addition, because it is a derivative of testosterone, it can cause changes in sexual characteristics, such as gynecomastia in men and virilization in women.

Legal Status

Methylhydroxynandrolone is classified as a controlled substance under the Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990 in the United States. It is also listed in similar drug control laws in many other countries.

See Also

• Anabolic steroid
• Nandrolone
• Syntex Corporation