ISSA Q&A: What are the Pro-Hormones and what are they used for?

From I.S.S.A.

QUESTION: What are the Pro-Hormones, and what are they used for?

ANSWER: Pro-Hormones are a class of supplements which work by raising the level of anabolic hormones in the body. This increase can facilitate the growth of lean muscle mass and also result in the reduction of adipose tissue (fat).

The popularity of Pro-Hormones has exploded in the past 9 months as their effectiveness has been recognized by the entire bodybuilding, fitness, and now sports community.

QUESTION: What are the specific types of Pro-Hormones, and what is the difference between them?

ANSWER: While they go by many different names and labels, the Pro-Hormones can basically be broken down into two distinct categories: those that are believed to convert directly into testosterone in the body (these commonly carry the "andro" tag) and those that convert into nandrolone (these typically carry the "norandro" tag).

The two most popular "andro" products-each of which likely converts directly to testosterone in the liver-are:

Androstenedione / conversion rate of 5.61% Androdiol / conversion rate of 15.76%

The two significant "norandro" Pro-Hormones-those that convert to the well-known anabolic nandrolone-are:

Norandrostenedione / conversion rate of 5.61% Norandrostenediol / conversion rate of 15.76%

QUESTION: What are the side-effects associated with the Pro- Hormones, and how can they be minimized?

ANSWER: Any time you significantly elevate the level of anabolic hormones in the body there is the possibility of undesirable side-effects. With Pro-Hormones these side-effects appear to occur at much lower levels and much less frequently than say with synthetic anabolic steroid use.

The possible side-effects fall into two classes: those caused by aromitization or increased estrogen in the body (these may include skin problems such as rashes and sensitive or enlarged nipples, gynecomastia); and those androgenic effects resulting from increased DHT or dihydrotestosterone (these could include deepening voice, acne, body hair growth, depletion of head hair, and prostrate enlargement).

Because they convert directly to the more anabolic and more androgenic compound testosterone, androstenedione and androstenediol are likely to have a higher side-effect profile than the norandros. They are also likely to cause greater increases in lean muscle mass, so it's a trade-off.

There are at least three highly-effective methods to help minimize any occurrence of undesirable side-effects with Pro- Hormone supplementation.

1. Stick within the recommended doses. In general, do not exceed a total of 750 mg / day in total Pro-Hormone intake.

2. Supplement with Chrysin (500-1000 mg / day) to help eliminate possible side-effects associated with aromitization.

3. Supplement with Saw Palmetto (300-400 mg / day) to aide in minimizing DHT related side-effects. Saw Palmetto seems to prevent the binding of DHT to angrogen receptors in the body thus blocking androgen-based side-effects.

QUESTION: What is the best way to cycle Pro-Hormones to maximize gains?

ANSWER: There's still a great deal of research that needs to be done in this area.

My own experiences and observations would suggest that the most significant strength and mass gains with Pro-Hormone use are seen after approximately 10-15 days.

This leads one to believe that very short cycles-those lasting just a week to 10 days-are probably less effective than slightly longer cycles.

This, however, must to be balanced with the need to avoid significantly diminishing the natural production of hormones which would likely occur after prolonged use of Pro-Hormones.

Right now then, the best cycle for Pro-Hormone use would seem to be a period of 4-6 weeks on followed by at least 3-4 weeks off.

QUESTION: What's your overall assessment of Pro-Hormones and their value to those looking to add quality lean muscle mass?

ANSWER: Pro-Hormones help promote lean muscle mass like no other supplements legally available. They are potent aides in the development of a top-quality physique.

They must, however, be used intelligently and in combination with well-constructed training and nutrition programs.