Androsterone

HormoneAndrogen

What is it

Androsterone is a weak androgen and metabolite of testosterone and other androgens. The 3-beta-acetoxy ester is sometimes sold as a 'prohormone' supplement in sports nutrition. In the U.S., it has been a controlled substance under the Designer Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2014.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Testosterone, strength, body composition

Mixed Evidence

No controlled human trials support claimed benefits. Androgenic side effects are observed.

How it works

Endogenous androsterone is produced from the metabolism of androgens like DHEA and testosterone, mainly in the liver. It has weak direct androgenic activity. As an oral supplement (typically the acetate ester), it is rapidly hydrolyzed and either metabolized to weaker conjugates or back-converted into other androgens. Claims that oral androsterone meaningfully raises testosterone or improves athletic performance are not supported by controlled human trials. Users do experience androgenic side effects, consistent with weak androgen activity.

Dosage

There is no safe or established supplement dose. The compound is controlled in the U.S.

When and how to take it

Not applicable.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Androsterone 3-acetate ester

Banned for supplement sale in the U.S.

Rapidly hydrolyzed.

Safety

Risks include suppression of endogenous testosterone, adverse lipid changes, acne, hair loss in genetically predisposed men, gynecomastia (from estrogen conversion), virilization in women, and potential cardiovascular effects. Long-term safety data are absent.

Who should be cautious

Do not use. Contraindications include any history of liver, kidney, or cardiovascular disease; hormone-sensitive cancers; pregnancy and breastfeeding; and use under age 21. Banned by all major sporting bodies.

Interactions

Possible interactions with hormone therapies, anticoagulants, and other anabolic compounds.

Frequently asked questions

Is androsterone safe?⌄

No. It carries the side effects of weak androgens and lacks evidence of benefit.

Is it legal?⌄

It is a controlled substance in the U.S.

References

Androsterone on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Androsterone (ChEBI:16032) — ChEBI link

Androsterone (PubChem CID 5879) — PubChem link

Androsterone on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Androsterone (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Androsterone with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.