Best Prohormones for Strength Gains in 2025
Prohormones are precursor compounds that convert into active androgens once metabolized. They boost testosterone precursors in the bloodstream, which supports protein synthesis and lean muscle growth. Unlike direct anabolic steroids, prohormones typically require liver activation before exerting their effects.
Key Points:
- They increase anabolic hormone levels, aiding strength gains
- Some act as aromatase inhibitors, helping manage estrogen
- A post-cycle therapy (PCT) is essential to restore natural hormone balance
Top 8 Prohormones For Strength
1. 1-Androsterone (1-Andro)
1-Androsterone converts into 1-testosterone, offering solid lean mass gains with moderate androgenic activity. Many lifters appreciate its relatively mild estrogen conversion.
Pros:
- Promotes lean muscle without excessive water retention
- Moderate androgenic potency, suitable for first-time users
Cons:
- Requires six to eight weeks per cycle
- A PCT supplement is necessary afterward
Typical Dosage: 300–500 mg per day
Cycle Length: 6–8 weeks
2. 4-Androsterone (4-Andro)
4-Androsterone is a classic testosterone precursor that supports both mass and strength increases. It often draws comparisons to low-level anabolic steroids.
Pros:
- Noticeable size and power boost
- Affordable and widely available
Cons:
- Higher estrogen conversion risk—may need an aromatase inhibitor
- Possible water retention
Typical Dosage: 300–400 mg per day
Cycle Length: 6–8 weeks
3. 19-Nor-DHEA (19-Nor)
19-Nor-DHEA metabolizes into nortestosterone, which targets lean muscle and joint lubrication. Powerlifters chasing heavy PRs often turn to this compound. For training-specific insights, see prohormones for powerlifting.
Pros:
- Supports hard, dense gains
- Lower estrogenic activity than 4-Andro
Cons:
- Slower onset of effects
- May require strict dietary controls
Typical Dosage: 200–300 mg per day
Cycle Length: 6 weeks
4. 6-OXO (4-Androstene-3,6,17-Trione)
6-OXO is primarily an aromatase inhibitor, helping maintain a high testosterone-to-estrogen ratio. It’s popular among athletes who need clean strength without estrogenic side effects.
Pros:
- Reduces estrogen conversion
- Enhances free testosterone
Cons:
- Does not directly add mass—best used in a stack
- May cause joint stiffness in some users
Typical Dosage: 300 mg per day
Cycle Length: 6–8 weeks
5. Adrenosterone (11-OXO)
Also known as 11-Oxo, adrenosterone inhibits 11β-HSD1 enzyme, which can positively influence cortisol levels. Lower cortisol may translate to better strength preservation under stress.
Pros:
- Helps control cortisol, aiding recovery
- Mild androgenic effect, fewer side effects
Cons:
- Slower muscle-building action
- Often stacked with other prohormones for best results
Typical Dosage: 200–400 mg per day
Cycle Length: 6 weeks
6. Epiandrosterone (3β-EpiA)
Epiandrosterone is a mild androgenic prohormone that converts into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It’s a go-to for those wanting moderate strength enhancements with minimal risk.
Pros:
- Low estrogen risk
- Subtle gains keep users looking lean
Cons:
- Gains are gradual—patience required
- Can impact natural DHT levels
Typical Dosage: 300–400 mg per day
Cycle Length: 8 weeks
7. 3α-Androstanediol (3α-Adiol)
3α-Adiol serves as a direct precursor to DHT, often chosen by athletes aiming for joint stability and strength. It’s efficient for short, intense training cycles.
Pros:
- Promotes DHT-driven strength
- May support joint health
Cons:
- Potential scalp sensitivity (hair thinning)
- Requires precise dosing
Typical Dosage: 300 mg per day
Cycle Length: 6 weeks
8. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA is a naturally occurring adrenal prohormone that converts into testosterone and estrogen. It’s widely studied for its safety profile and general hormone support.
Pros:
- Supports testosterone baseline
- Mild effects make it accessible
Cons:
- Lower potency for raw strength
- May elevate estrogen if dosed too high
Typical Dosage: 50–200 mg per day
Cycle Length: 4–8 weeks
Comparing Prohormone Features
The table below summarizes key dosing and potency details. Athletes can match compounds to their goals—whether raw power, lean mass, or hormonal balance.
| Compound | Typical Dosage | Cycle Length | Androgenic Potency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Andro | 300–500 mg/day | 6–8 weeks | Moderate |
| 4-Andro | 300–400 mg/day | 6–8 weeks | Moderate |
| 19-Nor-DHEA | 200–300 mg/day | 6 weeks | Low–Moderate |
| 6-OXO | 300 mg/day | 6–8 weeks | Low |
| Adrenosterone (11-OXO) | 200–400 mg/day | 6 weeks | Low |
| Epiandrosterone | 300–400 mg/day | 8 weeks | Low |
| 3α-Adiol | 300 mg/day | 6 weeks | Moderate |
| DHEA | 50–200 mg/day | 4–8 weeks | Mild |
Managing Dosage And Safety
Adhering to dosing guidelines and cycle lengths helps reduce side effects. Combining more than two prohormones in a single cycle can strain the liver and endocrine system.
Stack Guidelines
- Limit stacks to two complementary compounds
- Monitor liver enzymes every 4 weeks
- Avoid overlapping aromatase inhibitors without need
Post Cycle Therapy
A solid PCT restores natural hormone levels after a prohormone cycle. Common options include selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and natural testosterone boosters.
PCT Tips:
- Begin PCT 2 days after cycle ends
- Continue PCT for 4–6 weeks
- Track bloodwork before and after PCT
Key Takeaways And Tips
- Eight top prohormones suit different strength goals, from raw power to lean muscle
- Always follow recommended dosages and cycle durations
- A proper PCT regime is nonnegotiable for hormonal health
- For insights on muscle-building compounds, explore prohormones for muscle strength
- Athletes chasing explosive performance may benefit from our guide on prohormones for explosive strength
- Those needing legally cleared options can review legal prohormones for strength
By matching the right compound to their training focus, bodybuilders can maximize strength gains safely and effectively.
