Mixed testosterone esters

Mixed testosterone esters are a type of anabolic steroid used in androgen replacement therapy. They are a combination of different testosterone esters, which are forms of the hormone testosterone that have been modified to alter their duration of action.

Composition

Mixed testosterone esters typically contain four different testosterone esters: testosterone propionate, testosterone phenylpropionate, testosterone isocaproate, and testosterone decanoate. These esters have different lengths of carbon chains, which affects their solubility in oil and their absorption rate and duration of action in the body.

Pharmacology

The pharmacology of mixed testosterone esters is essentially the same as that of testosterone. The esters are cleaved off in the body, leaving free testosterone. This testosterone then exerts its effects by binding to and activating the androgen receptor, which leads to changes in gene expression and an increase in protein synthesis.

Clinical use

Mixed testosterone esters are used in androgen replacement therapy to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. They are also used to treat delayed puberty in boys and breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Side effects

The side effects of mixed testosterone esters are similar to those of testosterone. They can include acne, gynecomastia, prostate enlargement, and mood changes. Long-term use can also lead to cardiovascular disease and liver damage.

See also

• Testosterone
• Anabolic steroid
• Androgen replacement therapy

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