Drostanolone propionate, which also may be called Masteril™ or Masteron™, is an anabolic steroid, a drug that mimics the effects of naturally occurring testosterone in the body. Drostanolone propionate has been used as a hormone therapy in conjunction with other treatments for breast cancer, but unpleasant side effects keep it from being widely used for this purpose. Another effect of this drug is to increase muscle mass, which has led to its often unapproved and controversial use by athletes and bodybuilders who want to increase strength or a muscular appearance. Anabolic steroids may also be used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS or wasting diseases, to help maintain body mass and strength.
In addition to increasing muscle mass, drostanolone propionate also may prevent muscle loss during dieting while increasing loss of body fat. Some athletes may use the drug to build strength but maintain a certain weight to compete in a particular weight class. It may also be used to enhance the appearance of muscles — making them look harder and more defined — for those competing in body building competitions. Drostanolone propionate also has a diuretic effect, which can sometimes increase weight loss.
While drostanolone propionate may be used for a variety of purposes in athletics, potential undesirable health effects mean that its use in professional sports may result in legal consequences and disciplinary action for athletes. In fact, many sports organizations have banned anabolic steroids. Moreover, in some countries, certain types of anabolic steroids are considered controlled substances and cannot be purchased or used legally.
The use of drostanolone propionate carries the risk of numerous negative side effects. It mimics the physical effects of testosterone and can cause women to develop more male characteristics such as a deeper voice and increased body hair. In men, the drug can sometimes bring on the loss of body hair and enlargement of the prostate gland. Other negative effects of anabolic steroid use may include increased aggression, unsafe increases in cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, acne, and liver damage.
Drostanolone propionate has sometimes been prescribed to help treat breast cancer. When used, it blocks production or reduces the levels of estrogen in the body. Other medications are often preferred because of its undesirable side effects.