Mesterolone, sold under the brand name Proviron among others, is an androgen and anabolic steroid medication which is used mainly in the treatment of low testosterone levels. It has also been used to treat male infertility, although this use is controversial. It is taken by mouth.
Mesterolone was developed in the 1960s and was first described by 1966. It was introduced for medical use by Schering under the brand name Proviron by 1967. The well-established brand name Proviron had previously been used by Schering for testosterone propionate starting in 1936.
How does Proviron work?
Proviron balances a deficiency of androgen formation which begins to fall gradually with increasing age. Therefore, Proviron is suitable for treatment of all conditions caused by deficient endogenous androgen formation. In the recommended therapeutic dosage, Proviron will not impair spermatogenesis.
How much to take
Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how much and how often you should take Proviron. For Proviron to work best, it is very important to take it exactly as your doctor tells you.
The usual treatment consists of 1-2 tablets three times per day. After a few months of treatment, your doctor may decrease the dose to 1 tablet two to three times a day. Do not exceed the recommended dose your doctor has prescribed for you as this can increase your risk of side effects.
How long can I take Proviron?
According to type and severity of the complaints, a course of Proviron lasting four to six weeks or a prolonged uninterrupted treatment over several months is recommended.
Does Proviron help with erectile dysfunction (Ed)?
According to the manufacturers, Proviron may help treat the problem of erectile dysfunction or impotence in men. This steroid may also be useful for all individuals who find it hard to maintain an erection during sexual activity with their partner.
Does Proviron increase sperm count?
Proviron is a highly effective oral androgen which can stimulate spermatogenesis without suppressing the pituitary. However, news studies have shown that Proviron can reduce sperm count. According to a new study, Proviron could probably serve as hormonal contraceptive because its administration reduces sperm count by about 1.4 times and sperm motility by about 2.8 times lower compared to control.
What are the side effects of Proviron?
All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical attention if you get some of the side effects. Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking Proviron.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any of the following and they worry you:
- headache
- fluid retention
- breast enlargement
- increased sexual drive
- psychiatric disturbances such as depression, aggression, increased or decreased energy levels, elation or irritability
- acne
- excessive hairiness
- premature puberty
- stunted growth
Tell your doctor immediately, or go to Accident and Emergency department at your nearest hospital if you notice any of the following:
- symptoms of an enlarged prostate such as changes in urination, or blood in the urine or ejaculate
- unwanted, frequent or prolonged and painful erections
- severe stomach pain or tenderness which do not disappear within a short time
You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalization.
Hormonal substances such as Proviron may quicken the growth of existing hormone dependent tissues and tumors If you are over 65 years of age, you may have an increased risk of developing prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement of the prostate) and prostatic cancer.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything that is making you feel unwell.
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some people.
Proviron Safety Information
Excessive use of hormonal substances such as Proviron has been associated with liver abnormalities, tumors, changes to blood lipids, increased risk of heart disease, reduced glucose tolerance, decreased testosterone levels, enlargement of male breast tissue, stunted growth, psychiatric disturbances and acute withdrawal.
