Trestolone (MENT / 7α-Methyl-19-nortestosterone) - Experimental Androgen — Anabolic Steroids
Next-generation synthetic androgen approximately 10x more potent than testosterone, originally developed by the Population Council as a male hormonal contraceptive and androgen replacement.
Overview
Trestolone (7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone, MENT) is a synthetic androgen developed by the Population Council for male contraception and androgen replacement therapy. It is approximately 10 times more potent than testosterone at the androgen receptor and demonstrates potent suppression of gonadotropins (LH/FSH), achieving azoospermia in clinical contraception trials. Unlike testosterone, MENT is not 5α-reduced by the enzyme 5α-reductase, making it DHT-sparing and theoretically less likely to cause prostate hypertrophy and androgenic alopecia. However, it aromatizes strongly to 7α-methyl-estradiol, necessitating estrogen management. Available primarily as the acetate ester (trestolone acetate) with a short half-life requiring daily injections. Phase I/II contraception trials demonstrated reversible spermatogenic suppression. No FDA approval exists; all current use is investigational or off-label. PMID: 16698943, 19880655, 21299279.
Indications
- Investigational male hormonal contraception (Population Council Phase I/II trials)
- Androgen replacement therapy in hypogonadal males (investigational)
- Muscle wasting and cachexia (theoretical; no approved indication)
- Bodybuilding and physique enhancement (off-label, non-medical use)
Mechanism of Action
MENT binds the androgen receptor with approximately 10x the affinity of testosterone, driving potent anabolic and androgenic signaling in skeletal muscle, bone, and other tissues
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trestolone Acetate | 50 mg | Daily (short-acting acetate ester) | Standard investigational dose from contraception trials; requires daily injection due to short half-life |
| Trestolone Acetate | 25 mg | Daily | Lower dose for androgen replacement research; may be sufficient for HRT-level effects |
| Trestolone Acetate | 75-100 mg | Daily | Higher bodybuilding doses; significantly increased estrogenic side effect risk |
| Trestolone | Continuous release | Every 6-12 months | Population Council implant formulation; provides sustained androgen levels without daily injections |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Not FDA-approved for any indication; all use is investigational or off-label
- Strong aromatization to 7α-methyl-estradiol may cause gynecomastia, water retention, and mood changes; aromatase inhibitor co-administration often required
- Profound gonadotropin suppression: causes azoospermia and testicular atrophy; fertility recovery may take 3-6 months post-cessation
- Cardiovascular risk: likely adverse effects on lipid profile (HDL suppression, LDL elevation) similar to other 19-nor compounds
- No long-term safety data in humans; carcinogenic potential unknown
- Hepatic effects less concerning than 17α-alkylated steroids but not fully characterized