What Are Prohormones? A Beginner-Friendly Introduction to Their Role, Benefits, and Risks in Fitness
In the world of fitness and bodybuilding, many lifters constantly look for that edge to help them build more muscle, recover faster, and power through strength plateaus. Supplements play a significant role in this journey, but among the more potent and controversial are prohormones. But what are prohormones, and should you consider them at all?
This ultimate guide covers what are prohormones, their mechanism, evolution, benefits, drawbacks, types, usage cycles, legal status, and best practices for anyone considering them. If you’re on the fence or just curious, this in-depth breakdown will answer all your questions about prohormones—factually and responsibly.
What Are Prohormones and How Do They Work?
So, exactly what are prohormones?
Prohormones are compounds that act as precursors to hormones—specifically anabolic hormones like testosterone. Unlike anabolic steroids, which are already active hormones, prohormones are inactive until your body converts them into active hormones through enzyme metabolism, usually in the liver.
Once inside your system, these compounds go through enzymatic transformation, becoming active androgens that bind to androgen receptors in muscle cells. This binding process triggers muscle protein synthesis, accelerates recovery, and promotes muscle growth (hypertrophy).
There Are Two Primary Classes
- True precursors: Like 1-Andro, which converts to 1-Testosterone
- Designer steroids: Chemically altered to avoid regulation, but still behave like active steroids
Unlike natural testosterone boosters, which only optimize your body’s existing hormones, prohormones create new synthetic hormonal pathways, making them significantly more potent.
The History and Evolution of Prohormones
The prohormone boom began in the mid-1990s, thanks to Patrick Arnold, who introduced androstenedione, a testosterone precursor. It gained mainstream attention when baseball player Mark McGwire admitted using it during his record-breaking season.
Soon, supplement companies flooded the market with similar products. However, these early prohormones were poorly understood and often misused. In 2004, the Anabolic Steroid Control Act banned several prohormones, labeling them as controlled substances.
But the market adapted. Chemists designed “legal” alternatives that mimicked the effects of banned substances but skirted regulation due to different chemical structures. These are often called designer prohormones and were eventually banned under the DASCA (Designer Anabolic Steroid Control Act) in 2014.
Today, while some prohormones are still legally available, most potent compounds are controlled. Yet, they remain popular in hardcore bodybuilding circles and are still sold in certain countries under the guise of supplements.
7 Benefits of Using Prohormones
Why are people willing to risk side effects or legal grey areas to take prohormones? The benefits, when used correctly, can be significant.
1. Accelerated Muscle Growth
Prohormones enhance protein synthesis and nitrogen retention, enabling users to gain lean muscle mass rapidly. Gains of 5–10 pounds in a 4–6 week cycle are common with compounds like 1-Andro or 4-Andro.
2. Strength and Power Boost
Prohormones increase red blood cell production and neural drive, enabling users to lift heavier weights and recover more quickly between sets.
3. Faster Recovery
Prohormones reduce cortisol levels and promote an anabolic environment, thereby decreasing muscle soreness and increasing workout frequency.
4. Fat Loss and Body Recomposition
Certain prohormones like Epi-Andro promote fat burning while preserving lean muscle, making them ideal for cutting or recomposition cycles.
5. Improved Muscle Hardness and Vascularity
DHT-derived prohormones (such as Epiandrosterone) provide a dry, vascular appearance by shedding water and increasing muscle density.
6. Libido and Mood Boost
Due to their androgenic nature, some prohormones can increase libido and confidence temporarily.
7. Increased Focus and Aggression in Training
Many users report improved mental focus and motivation, which helps them push through heavy sets and high-intensity sessions.
Types of Prohormones and Their Functions
Here are some of the most popular prohormones and what they are typically used for:
1. 1-Andro (1-DHEA)
- Converts to 1-Testosterone
- Ideal for lean mass with no water retention
- Good for recomposition
2. 4-Andro (4-DHEA)
- Converts to testosterone
- Bulking-focused, strong size and strength gains
- May cause estrogen-related side effects
3. Epi-Andro (Epiandrosterone)
- Converts to DHT (dihydrotestosterone)
- Increases muscle hardness, libido
- Fat burning, ideal for cutting cycles
4. 19-NorAndro (19-Nor DHEA)
- Converts to nandrolone
- Joint support, moderate bulking
- Mild gains, but smoother on joints
5. DHEA
- Found naturally in the body
- Mild; useful for beginners or hormone support
6. Methylated Prohormones
- Modified for higher bioavailability
- More effective but harsher on the liver
- Require strong liver support
How Prohormones Compare to Steroids and SARMs
What are prohormones in relation to anabolic steroids or SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators)?
Prohormones vs Steroids
- Prohormones are converted into hormones in the body
- Steroids are already active compounds
- Steroids are often more potent but more legally restricted
Prohormones vs SARMs
- SARMs selectively bind to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue
- SARMs often have fewer side effects (but long-term data is lacking)
- Prohormones can affect more systems (e.g., liver, libido, estrogen)
In essence, prohormones sit somewhere between legal testosterone boosters and outright illegal anabolic steroids.
Prohormone Cycles and Best Practices
If you decide to try prohormones, planning your cycle properly is crucial.
Cycle Duration
- 4 to 8 weeks
- Beginners: Start with 4–6 weeks
Example Cycles
- Bulking: 1-Andro + 4-Andro (6 weeks)
- Cutting: Epi-Andro solo (4–6 weeks)
- Recomp: 1-Andro + Epi-Andro stack (6–8 weeks)
Dosage
- Follow label recommendations
- More is NOT better—higher doses = higher risk
On-Cycle Support
- TUDCA or NAC for liver protection
- Omega-3s and red yeast rice for cholesterol
- Blood pressure support, like Hawthorn Berry
Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT): Crucial for Recovery
Prohormones suppress natural testosterone. After a cycle, you must restore hormonal balance.
PCT Protocol
- Clomid: 25mg/day for 4 weeks
- Nolvadex: 20mg/day for 4 weeks (alternative)
- Arimistane: Optional to block estrogen rebound
- Natural Test Boosters: Zinc, D-Aspartic Acid, Ashwagandha
Skipping PCT Can Result In
- Testosterone crash
- Loss of gains
- Depression, fatigue, and libido issues
Side Effects and Health Risks
What are prohormones without addressing side effects? Dangerous.
Common Side Effects
- Acne and oily skin
- Hair thinning (in genetically prone individuals)
- Mood swings or aggression
- Water retention
- Gyno (man-boobs)
Long-Term Concerns
- Liver stress (especially methylated types)
- Suppressed testosterone
- Heart strain (high LDL, low HDL)
- Kidney burden
Always get blood work before, during, and after a cycle to monitor effects.
Legal Status: Are Prohormones Legal?
Depending on your location, prohormones may be fully legal, restricted, or outright banned.
United States
- Many prohormones are Schedule III substances
- Sales are restricted under DASCA
India
- Often available OTC, but legality varies by state
UK/Canada/Australia
- Mostly banned or classified as prescription-only
In Sports
- Banned by WADA, IOC, NCAA
- Can result in disqualification or career-ending consequences
- Always check local laws before purchase
Nutrition and Training While on Prohormones
You must eat and train appropriately to make the most of a cycle.
Diet
- Protein: 2–2.2g per kg of bodyweight
- Carbs: High for bulking; moderate for recomp; low for cutting
- Fats: 20–30% of total calories
- Hydration: Minimum 3–4 liters/day
Training
- Focus on progressive overload
- Combine strength + hypertrophy
- Use periodization (deloads every 4–6 weeks)
- Micronutrients: Zinc, Magnesium, D3, B-complex, and multivitamin
Conclusion: What Are Prohormones and Should You Use Them?
So, what are prohormones really?
They are potent hormone precursors designed to enhance strength, build muscle, and accelerate recovery. While not as dangerous as hardcore steroids, they aren’t completely safe either. Users need education, cycle planning, support supplements, and a strong post-cycle therapy protocol.
For experienced lifters who want faster progress and are willing to accept the risks—prohormones can be a powerful tool.
However, if you’re under 21, have preexisting health issues, or compete in tested sports, you should avoid them altogether.
FAQs on What Are Prohormones
1) Are Prohormones Steroids?
Not exactly. They’re precursors that turn into steroids in the body.
2) Are They Safe?
Not without risks. With proper cycling and PCT, they can be used safely.
3) Do I Need PCT?
Absolutely. Skipping PCT is a huge mistake.
4) When Will I See Results?
Most see strength and muscle gains by week 3 or 4.
5) Natural Alternatives?
Ashwagandha, Fenugreek, D-Aspartic Acid, Tongkat Ali.
