Androstenediol CAS:521-17-5

5-Androstenediol (abbreviated as 5-diol), commonly referred to simply as , and also known as androst-5-ene-3β,17β-diol, is an endogenous androgen and estrogen steroid hormone and intermediate in the biosynthesis of testosteronefrom dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).

5-Diol is a direct metabolite of the most abundant steroid produced by the human adrenal cortex, DHEA. It is less androgenicthan the related compound, Δ4-androstenediol, and has been found to stimulate the immune system. When administered to rats, Δ5-diol, in vivo, has approximately 1.4% of the androgenicity of DHEA, 0.54% of the androgenicity of androstenedione, e 0.21% of the androgenicity of testosterone.

Androstenediol used to be available as a dietary supplement. But under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004, it was reclassified as a schedule III controlled substance. This means androstenediol is available only as a prescription medicine, and physicians have to follow strict rules when prescribing it.

Androstenediol is used to increase the body’s production of testosterone; increase energy; enhance recovery and growth from exercise; heighten sexual arousal and performance; and promote a greater sense of well-being.