Testosterone enanthate is an injectable form of testosterone. This is an androgen, or a male hormone, that is produced naturally by men and is produced at a very low level in women. Testosterone enanthate is used medically for some specific conditions, but it is better known for being one of the most commonly abused anabolic steroids by athletes and body builders.
Injection of testosterone enanthate is usually used in a medical setting for problems in males that arise from low natural levels of male hormones. This may include extremely late onset of puberty, male osteoporosis, or chronic impotence that can be linked to low hormone levels. It may also be used in women who have certain forms of aggressive breast cancer to prevent further spreading of the cancer.
Testosterone enanthate is best known for being an anabolic steroid, or as a muscle mass building substance, that is abused by some athletes and body builders. This hormone can dramatically increase the size, and even the number, of muscle fibers, leading to increased strength. There is also some evidence to suggest that use of anabolic steroids may significantly shorten the recovery time necessary after intense workouts.
In addition, testosterone enanthate appears to be able to enhance the body’s ability to make red blood cells. This can result in better oxygenation of the blood. Increased oxygen capacity can lead to superior performance by athletes involved in endurance events, such as distance running, biking, or swimming.
Use of this substance, and of other anabolic steroids, is banned unless prescribed by a doctor for medical reasons. It is also banned from all sporting events, for several reasons. First of all, it gives an unfair strength and endurance advantage to athletes who use testosterone enanthate. Secondly, and most importantly, it can cause a wide range of serious and unpleasant side effects.
The side effects of testosterone enanthate can range from male pattern baldness to increased aggression and possibly even psychotic episodes. It may also increase the risk of developing reproductive cancers in men. Other side effects can include muscle twitching, high blood pressure, and kidney or liver damage.
When testosterone enanthate is taken at very high levels, the body may begin to convert excess testosterone into female hormones. For this reason, a male taking a high dose of this substance may begin to show female characteristics, such as breast development. To avoid this, a doctor may recommend taking an aromatase inhibitor, or a drug that inhibits the enzyme that turns testosterone into female-like hormones in the body.
Most of the common side effects in women taking testosterone involve the onset of male characteristics. This may include the growth of facial or chest hair, a deepening voice, or male pattern baldness. Women are also prone to developing acne, and to experiencing a disruption of their menstrual cycle.