October 05, 2019
Testosterone Enanthate is an anabolic steroid originally developed for medical purposes, such as the treatment of clinically diagnosed testosterone deficiency. Regardless, this steroid and many other substances are also discussed by some athletes in the context of muscle building and performance enhancement. Today, let's take a brief look at some basic facts about it.
First things first: I generally advise against the use of anabolic steroids outside a medical context. However, since this topic is frequently discussed and attracts a lot of interest, this article aims to provide a factual overview and a clear, understandable summary. It is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
Basic Mechanism
Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone and plays a key role in muscle growth, bone density, strength development, libido and numerous metabolic processes. Testosterone Enanthate is a form of this hormone, where an enanthate ester is attached to the testosterone molecule.
This chemical modification slows down the release of the hormone, resulting in a longer-lasting effect compared to free testosterone.
Testosterone Enanthate works through the same biological mechanisms as the body's own testosterone. It binds to androgen receptors in various tissues, including muscle cells, bones, and certain organs.
Activating these receptors influences protein synthesis, meaning the formation of new protein structures in the muscles. Additionally, it can alter nitrogen balance in muscle tissue, creating favorable conditions for muscle growth.
Besides its effects on muscles, testosterone also affects other systems such as fat metabolism, blood production and bone density.
No Effects Without Side Effects
Like all hormonally active substances, Testosterone Enanthate can cause side effects. These can occur in the short or long term and vary greatly between individuals.
Known risks include changes in the cardiovascular system, effects on fat metabolism, disruptions in the body's hormone regulation, and possible psychological effects. Skin changes, hair loss, or prostate changes are also described in scientific literature.
It is particularly important to note that the body responds to externally supplied testosterone with physiological adaptation mechanisms. This includes a reduction in the body's own testosterone production, as the hormonal self-regulation is influenced by the external supply.
At this point, the question of whether external hormone intake makes sense inevitably arises. The long-term stability of any changes achieved this way is questionable. Muscle mass and performance gains that occur under strongly altered hormonal conditions are often not permanent.
After discontinuing external hormone intake, the body undergoes adaptation processes. In this context, some of the previously gained muscle mass may be lost again as the body gradually returns to its natural hormonal balance.
Is Using Roids Cheating?
Scientific literature clearly shows that anabolic steroids can have a significant impact on muscle growth and strength development. Even without structured training, more muscle can be built than naturally with training. And in combination with intensive strength training, these effects are naturally amplified further.
This greatly changes the physiological conditions for muscle growth. Muscle gain under the influence of exogenous hormones is significantly easier, as the body’s natural regulatory mechanisms are bypassed or enhanced. This leads to results that would not be achievable under natural conditions.
In sports and competitive contexts, the use of such substances is therefore often considered an unfair advantage and is clearly distinguished from natural training. This distinction is important to realistically evaluate performance and set accurate expectations for training results.
Scientific Articles and Studies
The effects of supraphysiologic doses of testosterone on muscle size and strength in normal men
https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJM199607043350101
Development of models to predict anabolic response to testosterone administration in healthy young men
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpendo.00536.2002
Testosterone replacement increases fat-free mass and muscle size in hypogonadal men
https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/82/2/407/2823214
Long-Term Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use Is Associated With Left Ventricular Dysfunction
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.109.931063
Anabolic steroids and male infertility: a comprehensive review
https://bjui-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2011.10131.x
Anabolic steroid abuse: physiological and anaesthetic considerations
https://associationofanaesthetists-publications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2044.2005.04218.x
Closing Words
For most people, the use of anabolic steroids is neither necessary nor sensible. A strong, aesthetic and healthy (!) body can be achieved through consistent training, balanced nutrition and sufficient recovery.
Unless medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor, external hormone intake should be avoided. Long-term health should always remain the top priority.