Drostanolone propionate: mechanism of action, clinical applications and side effects

General Description

Drostanolone propionate is an anabolic steroid primarily used in the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, reducing estrogen levels and suppressing the growth of breast cancer cells. In addition to its clinical use, it is popular among bodybuilders and athletes for its anabolic effects. By binding to androgen receptors, it enhances protein synthesis, muscle growth, and strength. However, its non-medical use carries potential side effects such as acne, hair loss, liver damage, and increased cardiovascular risk. It should only be used under medical supervision.

Figure 1. Injection of drostanolone propionate

Mechanism of action

Drostanolone propionate is an anabolic steroid that is commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes to enhance their physical performance. Its primary mechanism of action involves binding to androgen receptors in the body, which leads to an increase in protein synthesis and muscle growth. Drostanolone propionate is a derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone that is responsible for the development of male sex characteristics. DHT is more potent than testosterone, and it has a stronger affinity for androgen receptors in the body. By binding to these receptors, drostanolone propionate enhances the anabolic effects of testosterone, leading to increased muscle size, strength, and endurance. In addition to its anabolic effects, drostanolone propionate also has anti-estrogenic properties, meaning that it can inhibit the conversion of testosterone into estrogen in the body. This can be beneficial for bodybuilders who are trying to reduce the risk of gynecomastia (breast tissue growth) and other estrogen-related side effects. Overall, drostanolone propionate is a powerful and effective steroid that can help athletes and bodybuilders achieve their fitness goals. ¹

Clinical applications

Drostanolone propionate is an androgenic-anabolic steroid that is primarily used in the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to the family of dihydrotestosterone derivatives, and its anabolic properties make it a popular choice for improving muscle mass and strength in bodybuilding and athletic communities. The clinical application of Drostanolone propionate is primarily focused on its anti-estrogenic effects, which are effective in treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It works by inhibiting the activity of the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens to estrogens, thereby reducing estrogen levels in the body. The reduction in estrogen levels leads to a decrease in the growth of breast cancer cells, making Drostanolone propionate an important component of the adjuvant therapy for breast cancer treatment. In addition to its clinical use in breast cancer treatment, Drostanolone propionate has also been used to improve muscle mass and strength, particularly in bodybuilders and athletes. ²

Side effects

Drostanolone propionateis a steroid with several potential side effects. Due to its anti-estrogenic properties, there is typically no need for an aromatase inhibitor when using this steroid, although it may still be necessary depending on the individual's cycle. However, drostanolone propionate does have androgenic effects due to its DHT derivative nature. This can lead to acne, accelerated genetic hair loss, and increased body hair growth. It is worth noting that drostanolone propionate has a moderate level of total androgenic activity, despite being a direct derivative of the potent androgen DHT. The actual manifestation of these side effects varies from person to person due to individual sensitivity. In females, the use of drostanolone propionate can result in virilization symptoms, including body hair growth, deepening of the voice, and clitoral enlargement. It is generally not recommended for female athletes, and if symptoms occur, it is advised to discontinue use promptly as the effects may become irreversible. Drostanolone propionate can also have an impact on cholesterol levels. It increases LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and decreases HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), although its overall effect on cholesterol is not as pronounced as with many oral steroids, particularly common in C17-α alkylated steroids. Nonetheless, compared to nandrolone or testosterone, drostanolone propionate has a stronger overall impact on cholesterol levels. It may also have a mild negative effect on blood pressure, although this is not usually problematic for most individuals. In conclusion, the potential side effects of drostanolone propionate include androgenic effects such as acne, accelerated genetic hair loss, and increased body hair growth. It can also cause virilization symptoms in females. Additionally, it affects cholesterol levels and may mildly impact blood pressure. ³

Reference

1. Trams G. Effect of drostanolone propionate on the binding of oestradiol and dihydrotestosterone by normal and malignant target tissues. Eur J Cancer (1965). 1977 Feb;13(2):149-153.

2. Marinov L, Tsekova V, Koĭnov K, Velikova M, Micheva D. Drostanolon-propionat (masteril) pri diseminiraniia rak na mlechna ta zhleza u zhenata. Neposredstveni rezultati [Drostanolone propionate (masteril) in disseminated breast cancer in women. Immediate results]. Khirurgiia (Sofiia). 1987;40(6):80-6. Bulgarian.

3. Kraus SL, Emmert S, Schön MP, Haenssle HA. The dark side of beauty: acne fulminans induced by anabolic steroids in a male bodybuilder. Arch Dermatol. 2012 Oct;148(10):1210-1212.