Androstenetrione Supplement: What It Is and What to Know

Androstenetrione (sometimes labeled 6-OXO or androst-4-ene-3,6,17-trione) is a dietary supplement sold as an aromatase inhibitor. Sellers claim it raises free testosterone and lowers estrogen, which could help build lean muscle, reduce fat, and cut water retention. If you’re curious, this page gives straight facts on how it works, what evidence exists, safety issues, and safer alternatives.

How it works and claimed benefits

The active idea is simple: androstenetrione blocks aromatase, the enzyme that turns testosterone into estrogen. Lowering estrogen can shift hormone balance toward more free testosterone. Users report modest strength gains, better pump, or reduced bloating after cycles. Keep expectations realistic — most available human data is small or short-term, and results vary a lot by person.

Realistic benefits you might see include small increases in free testosterone and temporary drops in estrogen-related water weight. Don’t expect dramatic muscle gains without training and a solid diet. If you’re taking other hormones, steroids, or prescription meds, adding an aromatase inhibitor changes the balance and can cause unexpected effects.

Safety, dosing, and alternatives

There’s no universal dose. Commercial products often recommend 300–600 mg per day split into two doses, but that is based on marketing, not robust clinical trials. Side effects can include joint pain, mood swings, decreased HDL cholesterol, and changes in libido. Because estrogen plays roles in bone health, heart health, and mood, suppressing it long-term without medical reason can be risky.

Before using androstenetrione, check with a clinician and get baseline labs: total testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, and a basic lipid panel. Repeat testing 4–8 weeks after starting to see how your body reacts. If estradiol drops too low or HDL falls, stop and get medical advice.

Safer alternatives include optimizing sleep, protein intake, and resistance training — all proven ways to improve natural testosterone. For medical or stronger hormonal needs, consult an endocrinologist; prescription aromatase inhibitors or testosterone therapy may be managed with proper monitoring.

When shopping, pick brands with third‑party testing and clear ingredient lists. Avoid products that promise overnight transformation or list proprietary blends without amounts. Never mix androstenetrione with anabolic steroids or unmonitored hormone therapies; that raises the risk of lasting harm.

Legally, androstenetrione is sold as a dietary supplement in many countries but rules vary. It’s not approved as a medication, and quality control can be inconsistent. Women who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding should avoid it because hormone shifts can harm pregnancy and the baby. Teenagers and people under 25 should also avoid deliberate hormone suppression while their bodies are still developing. Expect to pay a modest price per bottle; cheaper products often skip testing. Prioritize third‑party tested brands and ask for a certificate of analysis when you can. Always seek medical advice before starting.

If you want to try it, plan a short trial with labs before and after, track mood and lipids, and stop if you feel worse. Ask your healthcare provider for help interpreting results. Safe choices are based on tests and medical guidance, not ads or gym hearsay.