Androgens

Testosterone is a natural androgen that is metabolized by 5 alpha-reductase to 5 alpha-DHT, which is more potent.  Synthetic androgens are also available and used for various indications. Like estrogens, androgens activate intranuclear receptors, which stimulate transcription of RNA and production of effector proteins.  Androgens are responsible for physical and sexual maturation in males.  Androgens are clinically used for treatment of primary and secondary hypogonadism.  Androgens and anabolic steroids are used by athletes for muscle growth. Use of steroids can result in mood lability. In children, androgens can lead to abnormal development. Females who use androgens will develop masculine features.

Class Drugs

• Danazol

• Fluoxymesterone

• Methyltestosterone

• Oxandrolone

• Oxymetholone

• Testosterone

Class Mechanism of Action

Interacts with androgen receptors to mediate effects via stimulation of RNA and protein production

• Androgens are responsible for normal physical and sexual maturation in males

• Androgens stimulate muscle protein synthesis

• Androgens decrease bone resorption

• Androgens stimulate sperm production

Class Applications

Primary hypogonadism

Secondary hypogonadism

Treatment of wasting in HIV and cancer

Treatment of endometriosis (Danazol only)

Class Adverse Effects

Deepening voice

Labile mood

Weight gain

Acne

Increase LDL and decrease HDL

Abnormal sexual maturation in children and premature closure of growth plates

Masculinization in females (male pattern baldness, increased muscle bulk, acne, etc.)

Priapism, impotence, and gynecomastia in excess in males

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Danazol	Endometriosis; Fibrocystic Breast Disease	Androgen/Estrogen inhibitor; Inhibits steroidogenesis	"Dan" "Asshole"
Fluoxymesterone			"Flu" "Oxyclean" "Mister"
Methyltestosterone			"Meth" "testosterone steroids"
Oxandrolone			"Ox" "Andrew Alone"
Oxymetholone			"Oxyclean" "Meth Alone"
Testosterone			"Testosterone steroids"