The acute effects of androstenedione supplementation in healthy young males

We examined the effects of androstenedione supplementation on the hormonal profile of 10 males and its interaction with resistance exercise. Baseline testosterone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, and androstenedione concentrations were established by venous sampling at 3 hr intervals over 24 hr: Subjects ingested 200 mg of androstenedione daily for 2 days, with second and third day blood samples. Two weeks later they ingested androstenedione or a placebo for 2 days, in a double-blind; cross-over design. On day 2 they performed heavy resistance exercise with blood sampled before, after and 90 min past. The supplement elevated plasma androstenedione 2-3-fold and luteinizing hormone similar to 70% but did not after testosterone concentration. Exercise elevated testosterone, with pro difference between conditions. Exercise in the supplemented condition significantly elevated plasma estradiol by similar to 83% for 90 mire. Androstenedione supplementation thus, is unlikely to provide male athletes with any anabolic benefit and with heavy resistance exercise, elevates estrogen.