- Increase Natural Testosterone
- Estrogen Blocker
- Post Cycle Recovery
What is androstenetrione (6-OXO) ?
Androstenetrione (4-androstene- 3,6,17-trione; androst-4-
ene-3,6,17-trione), also known as 6-OXO, is a suicidal inhibitor of the
enzyme aromatase. Aromatase is the enzyme responsible for the
conversion of androgens such as testosterone to estrogens. Inhibition
of this enzyme generally results in a lower production of estrogen, and
because testosterone is a precursor to estrogen, this signals the body
to produce more testosterone as a substrate for estrogen production in
an attempt to bring estrogen levels back to normal. 6-OXO was one of
the earliest discovered aromatase inhibitors, and it has been
demonstrated to significantly increase testosterone levels without
short-term adverse effects.
What is post-cycle therapy?
Natural production of testosterone is controlled by the
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA). When the body senses the
need for testosterone, the HPTA releases GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing
Hormone), which signals the release of LH (Luteinizing Hormone), which
in turn signals the production of testosterone. The increased
testosterone then signals back to the HPTA that testosterone needs are
met. This provides a negative feedback system that keeps natural
testosterone levels within a certain range. However, when an exogenous
steroid/prohormone is administered, it will also signal the HPTA that
testosterone needs are met. The HPTA then stops signalling the
production of testosterone, and this is what leads to the shutdown of
natural production of testosterone during a steroid cycle. This is the
reason that testicular shrinkage is experienced by many who use
steroids/prohormones, especially for longer cycles.
After a cycle, natural testosterone production will slowly return to
normal. However, depending on the severity of the shutdown, this
process can take months. During this time, anabolic hormone levels will
be minimized, and the gains made during the cycle may be lost. The goal
of post-cycle recovery (PCT) is to restore both testosterone levels and
natural production of testosterone as quickly as possible, among other
ancillary goals. Agents commonly used for PCT include HCG (human
chorionic gonadotropin), SERMs (selective estrogen receptor modulators)
such as clomiphene (clomid) and tamoxifen (nolvadex), and aromatase
inhibitors. In most cases, these are prescription drugs.
When is PCT necessary?
PCT is necessary after any steroid/prohormone cycle, no matter what the
substance. Short cycles (1-2 weeks) may be an exception, although some
amount of PCT is still wise in these cases. The length of PCT will
generally depend on how long the cycle was. For a 4 week cycle, PCT
will usually last 2-3 weeks, while for a 12 week cycle it may last as
long as 6 weeks. For longer cycles, use of HCG if possible is highly
recommended.
What is the role of 6-OXO in PCT?
6-OXO is the most effective PCT agent that can be legally sold as a
supplement. By inhibiting estrogen production, the HPTA is signalled to
increase testosterone levels to compensate – in other words, 6-OXO
inhibits one of the negative feedback signals that decreases the
signalling of testosterone production. This allows for faster
restoration of natural testosterone levels, in addition to a lowering
of estrogen levels which may be high post-cycle (depending on the
prohormone/steroid used). Still, 6-OXO isn't perfect. Recovery of LH
(recall that this is the signal for testosterone production) is not the
only issue post-cycle, especially if testicular atrophy has occured.
Also, if the steroid/prohormone used does not aromatise to estrogen,
estrogen levels will be low to begin with (because if natural
testosterone production is halted, natural estrogen production is
decreased as well), in which case an aromatase inhibitor will
presumably have less of an effect. Nevertheless, 6-OXO is still one of
the best options out there for PCT.
What are the side effects of 6-OXO?
The side effects of 6-OXO are those that can be expected from increased
testosterone (and DHT) production. The most common complaint is acne
(although this also shows that the product is working). Increased sex
drive is also common. With long-term use, risk of BPH (prostate
enlargement) and male pattern baldness may be increased, and the
possibility of these occuring may be reduced by concurrent use of
finasteride (propecia, proscar) or, in the case of BPH, saw palmetto.
Can 6-OXO be used as a standalone to increase testosterone levels?
Yes, although most users do not report positive results. The reported
side effects (such as acne) usually outweigh the potential benefits.
Another consideration is that continual use of 6-OXO will be quite
expensive. Also, although the present research is promising in this
regard, the long-term safety of 6-OXO is still not established.
However, this still remains the most effective legal way of increasing
testosterone levels without causing shutdown, and may be especially
useful for those with low baseline testosterone.
How to take it?
For PCT most suggest at least 400-600mg a day after cycle. Taken
all at once with night time meal. If it is only for natural
testosterone gain (no pct) then 200-400mg is standard.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 3 Capsules
Servings Per Container: 20
Amount Per Serving %DV
Androstenetrione 300 MG †
† Daily Value Not Established.
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium
Stearate, Gelatin.
Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 3-6 capsules at
night with your last meal. Do not use for more than six continuous
weeks. Warnings: Keep out of the reach of children. Consult with your
physician before using this product. Do not take this product if you
have prostate hypertrophy. Not recommended for persons under the age of
18.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This
product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any
disease. 
