Testosterone furoate

Overview

Testosterone furoate is a synthetic androgen and anabolic steroid (AAS) that is used in androgen replacement therapy for the treatment of male hypogonadism. It is an ester of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone and an anabolic steroid. Testosterone furoate is designed to provide a prolonged release of testosterone when administered, allowing for less frequent dosing compared to other testosterone formulations.

Chemical Structure

Chemical structure of testosterone furoate

Testosterone furoate is characterized by the presence of a furoate ester group attached to the 17-beta hydroxyl group of the testosterone molecule. This modification increases the lipophilicity of the compound, enhancing its duration of action when administered intramuscularly.

Mechanism of Action

Testosterone furoate acts as an agonist of the androgen receptor, the biological target of testosterone and other androgens. Upon binding to the androgen receptor, testosterone furoate exerts its effects by modulating the expression of specific genes, leading to the development and maintenance of male secondary sexual characteristics and anabolic effects such as increased muscle mass and bone density.

Clinical Use

Testosterone furoate is primarily used in the treatment of conditions associated with low testosterone levels, such as hypogonadism in males. It may also be used in certain cases of delayed puberty and to support transgender hormone therapy in transgender men.

Administration

Testosterone furoate is typically administered via intramuscular injection. The esterification of testosterone with furoate allows for a slow release of the hormone into the bloodstream, which can maintain therapeutic levels over an extended period, reducing the frequency of injections required.

Side Effects

As with other testosterone formulations, testosterone furoate may cause side effects such as acne, oily skin, increased red blood cell count, and potential cardiovascular issues. Long-term use can also lead to suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, resulting in decreased spermatogenesis and potential infertility.

Related Pages

• Testosterone
• Androgen replacement therapy
• Anabolic steroid
• Hypogonadism
• Androgen receptor