Androgens are hormones that shape development and health in both men and women. Learn what they do, where they come from, and what happens when levels are off.
Androgens are a group of hormones that mainly trigger the development of male physical characteristics.
The main subset of androgens, known as adrenal androgens, is composed of 19-carbon steroids synthesized in the zona reticularis, the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex. Adrenal androgens function as weak steroids (though some are precursors), and the subset includes dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), androstenedione (A4), and androstenediol (A5). Besides ...
High androgens in females cause irregular periods, unwanted dark hair, weight gain, acne, and, without treatment, infertility. Learn the causes and treatment.
Abstract Androgens are an important and diverse group of steroid hormone molecular species. They play varied functional roles, such as the control of metabolic energy fate and partition, the maintenance of skeletal and body protein and integrity and the development of brain capabilities and behavioral setup (including those factors defining maleness). In addition, androgens are the precursors ...
Androgen, any of a group of hormones that primarily influence the growth and development of the male reproductive system. The predominant and most active androgen is testosterone, which is produced by the male testes. The other androgens, which support the functions of testosterone, are produced
While androgens are typically labeled as "male" hormones, they're important to body functions for all humans.
What you need to know about androgenic hormones, androgen levels, low androgens, high androgens, birth control, and how it all affects your body.