Methyl-1-testosterone
Methyl-1-testosterone (17alpha-methyl-17beta-hydroxy-androst-1-ene-3-one) is a prohormone that is reported to be seven to sixteen times more potent than testosterone. The substance 1-testosterone (17-hydroxy-5alpha-androst-1-en-3-one) has been reported to be seven times more potent than normal testosterone and methyl-1-testosterone even more potent than normal 1-testosterone. The drug 1-testosterone has been methylated to protect it from liver destruction and thereby increase its oral availability. For this reason, methyl-1-testosterone is the most potent form of 1-testosterone available.
What does it do and what evidence is there
Methyl-1-testosterone (as well as 1-testosterone) is a substance with no currently known drug/medical use. As this hormone has only recently been discovered (and somewhat accidentally), it has yet to be formally studied academically.
However, substantial anecdotal evidence exists (from the bodybuilding community) that methyl-1-testosterone is very powerful and produces gains similar to those achieved with illicit steroids at a reasonable dosage. Many previous substances have been tainted with similar claims, only to disappoint. However, users of Methyl-1-Testosterones have noticed everyday gains of up to 10 lbs. of lean muscle mass during a two week period. These gains would be considered average (mediocre) among users and have occurred in large numbers. Methyl-1-testosterone is then most obviously a muscle-building substance.
Who needs methyl-1-testosterone
Considering that the body produces endogenous testosterone, there is no physical need for methyl-1-testosterone during adolescence (18-30). However, natural hormone levels decline with increasing age. A deficiency in testosterone levels can lead to a variety of mood swings and sexual dysfunction.
In the face of naturally declining hormone levels, methyl-1-testosterone could be used by those seeking to restore their hormone levels. As medical self-treatment is strongly discouraged, this is therefore a potential application. Bodybuilders trying to build lean muscle tissue could also benefit from the use of methyl-1-testosterone. While building muscle is not always a physical requirement (in some cases it is even a vital function) there may be at least a psychological requirement. People under 18 should refrain from using this supplement.
Dosage and side effects
Typical side effects of anabolic steroid use include Gynocomastia, water retention, disruption of the testicular axis, bloating stomach, hair loss and acne. Users of methyl-1-testosterone have not experienced any of these common side effects. This is partly due to the fact that methyl-1-testosterone is not converted to estrogen. A common side effect of taking methyl-1-testosterone is lethargy. Increased aggressiveness has also been noted, as well as an increase in blood pressure and a decrease in appetite. Usually, these side effects are dependent on the dosage. During a cycle of this substance, users should avoid alcohol and other stimulants and sedatives, as these substances can put additional strain on the liver. There are currently no formal dosing guidelines and it is therefore best to follow the label instructions only. However, it is suggested that it is best to start with a 'test dose' of 5-10mg. Users have reported that best gains were noticed at doses between 20 to 40 milligrams. Cycles of this product should last no more than four weeks to give the system as long a period to cleanse. During this time, it would be ideal to take additional liver detoxifiers such as silymarin (milk thistle), as well as taking an antioestrogen supplement such as ErgoPharm's 6-OXO.