Mestanolone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Androgen
• Anabolic steroid
• Dihydrotestosterone
• Testosterone