PROVIRON
Mesterolone
What it does
Mesterolone is a man-made form of a natural male hormone (testosterone). It is used to treat conditions related to low testosterone levels.
Commonly used for: low testosterone levels (hypogonadism), male hormone replacement therapy
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-09-25 02:01:46 · updated 2026-09-25 02:01:59
About this medicine
Mesterolone is a man-made form of a natural male hormone (testosterone). It is used to treat conditions related to low testosterone levels.
What it treats
- low testosterone levels (hypogonadism)
- male hormone replacement therapy
How it works
Mesterolone helps increase the levels of testosterone in the body, which is important for male sexual development and overall health.
Who it's for
This medication is for adult men who have low testosterone levels.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: mesterolone
BNF-referencedMesterolone is an androgen and anabolic steroid primarily used in the management of male hypogonadism and infertility. It is a synthetic derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and functions by mimicking the effects of testosterone in the body. Mesterolone's anabolic properties make it useful in treating conditions associated with androgen deficiency, while its ability to enhance libido and improve sperm production is beneficial in certain fertility issues.
Indications
- Male hypogonadism
- Infertility in males
- Androgen deficiency syndromes
Dosage
Children: Paediatric dosing information is not specified. Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing guidance.
Adults: The usual adult dose of mesterolone is 50 mg to 100 mg daily, divided into two or three doses.
Mechanism of action
Mesterolone acts as an androgen receptor agonist, binding to androgen receptors in various tissues, which leads to an increase in the synthesis of proteins involved in muscle growth and development. Additionally, it influences the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, promoting the production of endogenous testosterone and enhancing spermatogenesis.
Pharmacodynamics
Mesterolone exhibits both anabolic and androgenic effects. Anabolically, it contributes to muscle hypertrophy and strength gains, while androgenically, it enhances male secondary sexual characteristics such as body hair growth and increased libido. Its effects on metabolism also include the modulation of fat distribution and the promotion of erythropoiesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Mesterolone is well absorbed after oral administration, with a bioavailability that can be affected by food intake. It is metabolized in the liver, with a half-life that allows for regular dosing. The drug is excreted primarily in the urine, with metabolites being eliminated within a few days post-administration. Its pharmacokinetic profile supports its use in sustained therapeutic regimens.
Contra-indications
- Prostate carcinoma
- Pregnancy
- Severe liver dysfunction
- Nephrosis
- Hypercalcemia
Adverse effects
- Acne
- Oily skin
- Mood changes
- Nausea
- Headache
- Gynecomastia
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Water retention
Interactions
- Anticoagulants
- Insulin
- Oral hypoglycaemics
- Corticosteroids
- Cyclosporine
Precautions
- Cardiovascular disease
- Liver impairment
- Cholesterol abnormalities
- Prostate disorders
- Diabetes
Pregnancy
Mesterolone is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether mesterolone is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: mesterolone
PubChem CID 15020Molecular formula: C20H32O2
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.