Prohormones are precursors to hormones and are intended to increase hormone levels like testosterone when taken as supplements. However, their effects on natural testosterone production are complex.
Some key points about prohormones and testosterone:
- Prohormones can increase testosterone levels temporarily when taken, leading to muscle building and performance benefits. However, they suppress natural testosterone production with prolonged use.
- Different prohormones affect natural testosterone and other hormones differently. Some are more suppressive than others.
- Factors like the prohormone type, dosing, cycle length and post-cycle therapy impact effects on testosterone.
Common prohormones like androstenedione, 19-norandrostenedione and 1-androstenediol (1-AD) provide testosterone benefits when taken, including:
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Enhanced recovery
- Increased energy and sex drive
However, by providing synthetic testosterone levels, they signal the body to stop naturally producing its own testosterone.
- Natural testosterone production is regulated by a feedback loop with the brain. More testosterone signals to lower natural production.
Prohormone suppression of natural testosterone depends on factors like:
- Dosage and cycle length - Higher doses and longer cycles increase suppression. Cycles over 8 weeks are more likely to cause longer-term suppression.
- Type of prohormone - 19-nor compounds tend to be most suppressive. Milder compounds like 1-AD cause less shutdown.
- Individual response - People react differently regarding shutdown and recovery. Age and hormonal status impact effects.
Strategies to mitigate testosterone suppression include:
- Cycle length - Limit cycles to 4-8 weeks to minimize suppression duration.
- Post-cycle therapy (PCT) - Drugs like clomiphene stimulate testosterone recovery after cycles.
- Cycle support supplements - Products like Renewed Balance Clinic Recovery Blend aid hormonal balance.
With precautions like shorter cycles and proper PCT, temporary testosterone suppression from prohormones can be managed without long-term endocrine dysfunction. However the side effects pose risks and they remain controversial.
Renewed Balance Clinic specializes in helping men optimize hormones like testosterone, providing customized treatment plans tailored to your health goals with an exceptional standard of care.
