Ever since they came on the scene, “what are prohormones” has become a common phrase being thrown around gyms. It’s safe to say these compounds have taken the fitness world by storm.

With their unparalleled chemical assistance, it has changed the lives of many bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts alike. 

In the battleground of modern fitness, one is fighting to outdo the other. The line between natural and enhanced performance is more blurred than ever. The market is full of injectables and orals waiting to be bought. 

If you’re looking for something in between – something that will offer assistance without outshining your genetic capabilities – then welcome to the world of “Natural+” or ‘Natural Plus.’

At the heart of this world lies a new and upcoming contender: Prohormones. These tiny pills hold lots of promise: muscle building, improved strength and lesser side effects. 

But, what are prohormones? How do they work and are prohormones safe? Buckle up, as we take a deep dive into the world of Prohormone supplements and unveil the path to your dream body. 

What are Prohormones?

Prohormone supplements are chemical compounds which are converted into active hormones in the body. Prohormones are not inactive hormones rather, they are precursors to active hormones. Prohormones are also referred to as anabolic steroid precursors. 

Prohormones are converted through an enzymatic process into anabolic hormones, this in turn helps the body to stimulate protein synthesis and encourages muscle growth. They work by binding to hormone receptor binding sites.

These anabolic steroid precursors act as raw materials for the body to produce its performance-enhancing substances. Unlike synthetic hormones and anabolic steroids, prohormones do not introduce foreign substances into the body. 

Instead, they work in harmony with the body’s natural processes and optimise hormone production. 

Prohormones are made to be similar to the hormones they convert into. They can be the modified version of their naturally occurring counterpart. 

How do Prohormones work?

Having answered what are prohormones we must now see how these compounds actually work within our bodies.

Prohormones can improve body composition by encouraging muscle building and improving strength gains. So, how do they do that? 

When ingested and absorbed into the bloodstream, prohormones are taken to the liver. The liver contains enzymes which convert prohormones into active hormones. 

After being converted to their active hormone forms, – such as 4-DHEA is converted to testosterone – the hormones are ready to bind to androgen receptors. 

After binding to the hormone receptor binding sites, a series of cellular processes is triggered which encourages muscle growth and promotes protein synthesis which encourages hypertrophy. 

Some prohormones may also increase red blood cell production which can improve oxygen delivery to the muscles. This can improve endurance and reduce recovery time. 

Just like peptide hormones, prohormones also regulate hormone expression and enhance performance. Peptide hormones are made of amino acid chains linked by peptide bonds whereas prohormones are steroidal compounds made from cholesterol. 

Types of Prohormone Supplements

There are different types of prohormones, each designed to convert into a specific anabolic hormone in the body. 

These prohormones promote the development of male characteristics (androgenic effects) by interacting with androgen receptors in the body. This in turn can increase muscle mass, strength gains and improve physical performance.

Such prohormones are also paving the way for athletes and bodybuilders who want to imploy the “Natural+” philosophy as it positions itself a safer, natural alternative in the pro hormone market.

We will be taking a look at 5 of these types in this prohormones guide:

1. Androstenedione (Andro)

This was one of the first prohormones to gain popularity amongst fitness enthusiasts. It converts to testosterone in the body, hence increasing androgenic effects such as increased muscle mass and increased strength.

Common Use: Bulking, increasing muscle mass, and strength

Side Effects: Potential estrogen conversion, leading to side effects like gynecomastia.

2. 19-Norandrostenedione (19-Nor Andro)

Converts to nandrolone, similar to the anabolic steroid Deca-Durabolin. This pro hormone is often used for muscle building and joint support.

Common Use: Bulking, recovery, and reducing joint pain

Side Effects: Suppression of natural testosterone, potential libido reduction.

3. 1-Andro (1-DHEA)

Converts to 1-Testosterone in the body, a potent anabolic compound known for lean muscle gains without side effects such as water retention.

Common Use: Building lean muscle mass, increasing strength, and improving overall muscle density

Side Effects: Potential liver toxicity, suppression of natural testosterone.

4. 4-Andro (4-DHEA)

Converts to testosterone, promoting muscle growth and strength. It also has the potential for mild estrogen conversion.

Common Use: Bulking, increasing muscle mass, enhancing libido.

Side Effects: Estrogenic side effects, such as water retention or gynecomastia, potential liver strain.

5. Epistane (Methylepitiostanol)

A methylated prohormone known for its muscle hardening effects and low water retention. It’s often used during cutting phases.

Common Use: Cutting, improving muscle definition, and reducing body fat

Side Effects: Liver toxicity due to methylation, potential suppression of natural testosterone.

6. Combined Prohormones

There are some brands who are investing a lot of their time, money and research into developing the next best prohormone product by combining multiple prohormone compounds to create a the best option for maximum results and minimal side effects.

The biggest and best prohormone contender currently is 3-AD, as it bridges the gap between all-natural supplements and more aggressive anabolic options.

Thus, giving you the gains other steroids, sarms or peptides can give you but without the drastic side effects to your body. So you can enjoy bulking up or cutting down – naturally.

It also offers a unique mechanism that avoids conversion to DHT or DHEA, which are common in other prohormones currently available on the market.

This targeted approach can be seen as combining the benefits of different pathways while minimizing side effects.

How to use Prohormones

Here’s how you should approach your prohormone journey: 

• Understand the product: Look into the specific prohormone you are interested in and its potential side effects. Follow the recommended dosage according to the product level or your healthcare provider. 
• Cycle usage: Prohormones, just like anabolic steroids, are used in cycles – 4 to 8 weeks – to reduce side effects and to give the body recovery time. Follow a period of no prohormone use to restore your body’s natural hormone balance. 
• Post-Cycle Therapy: Post prohormone cycles, implement therapy cycles to regain your body’s natural hormone levels and to mitigate side effects like mood swings or libido reduction. 
• Avoid Overuse: Do not exceed the recommended dosage and cycle length. Overdoing it will not lead to better results instead, will negatively affect your health and increase side effects. Clinical studies suggest side effects can become worse with overuse. 
• Healthy Diet and Training: To maximise your muscle gains and for better fat loss, implement a balanced diet and effective exercise programme. 
• Legality: Ensure the dietary supplement you intend to use is approved for use by your country’s jurisdiction. As an athlete, check if it’s approved for use in your sport to avoid any penalty or expulsion. 

Benefits of Prohormones

Prohormone supplementation can offer different benefits which can make your journey to achieving your optimal physique easier. When discussing what are prohormones benefits we will see the direct impact they have on the body. Let’s see what benefits these dietary supplements can have: 

Muscle Growth: 

These nutritional supplements can boost the body’s protein synthesis which allows for improved muscle repair and growth. This can help in increasing muscle mass and boost hypertrophy. Better muscle repair reduces the time needed for recovery therefore allowing for more frequent training sessions.

Strength gains

Most prohormones boost the production of anabolic hormones such as testosterone which increases muscle force and power. This leads to better physical performance during training sessions and aids in building muscle. 

Improved Athletic Performance

Prohormone supplementation can improve endurance by improving oxygen delivery to muscles through increased red blood cell production. Reduced fatigue and better recovery help users train harder and more efficiently. 

Helps Burn Fat 

These dietary supplements can boost your metabolic rate which can help in reducing body fat and preserving muscle mass. Prohormones support lean muscle gains which leads to a more muscular physique and a lower body fat percentage.

Better Recovery 

Many prohormones can help in faster recovery from injuries by improving tissue repair and regeneration. This is very helpful for athletes who are dealing with any kind of strain or minor injury. 

Enhanced Mood and Cognitive Function

Prohormones can contribute to an overall better mood and well-being by affecting hormone balance and neurotransmitter levels. Some users may also feel their ability to concentrate is better due to mental clarity. 

Better Joint Health 

Certain prohormones, especially ones that convert to nandrolone can contribute to overall joint healing by improving collagen synthesis and reducing pain in joints.

Prohormones: Pros vs Cons

Aspect 📋	Pros 👍🏻	Cons 👎🏻
Muscle Mass	Effective in promoting muscle growth and strength.	Can cause muscle loss if not managed properly.
Performance	Enhances athletic performance and recovery.	May lead to overtraining and fatigue.
Administration	Often available in convenient oral forms.	Some require injections, which can be less convenient.
Targeted Effects	Designed to target specific goals (muscle growth, fat loss).	Side effects can vary based on the specific compound.

What are Prohormones Side Effects and Risks

Most widespread prohormones have undergone clinical studies to be studied for side effects. Prohormones can have a range of side effects due to their conversion to anabolic steroids and their ability to impact hormone expression. 

Here are the potential side effects associated with many prohormones as seen in clinical studies:

1. Hormonal Imbalance 

Since prohormones impact hormone expression they can suppress the natural production of testosterone. This in turn can reduce libido, increase fatigue or cause erectile dysfunction. 

Some prohormones can convert to estrogenic compounds which can lead to gynecomastia, water-retention or mood swings. 

2. Cardiovascular Issues

Apart from hormone expression, Prohormones can also contribute to increased blood pressure because of fluid retention or changes in red blood cell numbers. These dietary supplements may also affect cholesterol levels, increasing bad cholesterol and decreasing good cholesterol which could lead to cardiovascular diseases.

3. Androgenic Effects: 

Increased androgenic effects can lead to acne breakouts on the chest, shoulders and back. Users may also experience exacerbated male pattern baldness and body hair growth alongside greasy skin. 

4. Liver Toxicity 

Oral prohormones go to the liver to be metabolised, this can lead to liver toxicity, especially at higher doses or after prolonged use. Symptoms of liver damage include jaundice and abdominal pain. 

An increase in liver enzymes is also indicative of stress on the liver. 

5. Reproductive Issues 

Prohormone products may cause infertility in users after prolonged use because they can impact sperm production and fertility. It can also decrease libido or cause sexual dysfunction by causing testosterone levels. 

Other than these side effects, prohormones can lead to endocrine diseases, and contribute to chronic kidney disease, nausea or stomach problems as well. 

There are a wide variety of side effects to consider before using prohormones. 

Prohormones vs SARMs vs Steroids

Aspect 📋	Steroids 💊	Prohormones 💊	SARMs 💊
Definition 📚	Synthetic derivatives of testosterone or other hormones, directly active.	Precursors to hormones that convert into active hormones in the body.	Synthetic compounds that selectively bind to androgen receptors.
Mechanism of Action 🧬	Bind to androgen receptors, affecting various tissues, including muscle, bone, and reproductive organs.	Convert to active hormones (like testosterone) in the body, which then bind to androgen receptors.	Bind to androgen receptors selectively, promoting muscle and bone growth with minimal effects on other tissues.
Muscle Growth 💪🏼	Highly effective at promoting muscle growth and strength.	Effective for muscle growth but generally less potent than steroids.	Promotes significant muscle growth with fewer side effects compared to steroids.
PCT 🌡️	Essential to restore natural hormone levels and prevent side effects.	Typically required to restore natural hormone levels.	Usually required to restore natural hormone levels.

Legality 

Prohormones have been around for quite some time now. They gained popularity during the early 2000s and were available for unregulated use for quite some time. 

In the United States, under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004, select prohormones were banned and became controlled substances. 

Many prohormones were banned due to the adverse effects associated with their use. 

Like several illegal steroids in athletic associations, such as the International Olympic Committee, the use of most prohormones is banned. 

An anabolic steroid that became available after the 2004 law was amended is DHEA which is technically legal in the US and approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) as an ingredient in dietary supplements.

However, the World Anti-Doping Agency has banned it from being used in all sports. Supplement companies can add prohormones without disclosure, so if you’re an athlete beware.

Final Verdict: Are Prohormones Worth It?

We hope this guide clarified what prohormones are and how you can benefit from them.

Prohormones can be a game-changer for bodybuilders, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. These compounds transform into active hormones, delivering incredible benefits. Expect faster muscle growth without putting your health at unnecessary risk.

However, caution is key. Stick to recommended dosages and follow proper cycling protocols.

With responsible use, prohormones can deliver the strength and muscle gains you’ve been striving for while keeping you in peak health!