Ecdysteroids are also steroid hormones, and they act as androgens in arthropods. However, the receptors they use to induce these effects in arthropods are not found in humans. While more research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of action of ecdysteroids in mammals, it is clear that they do not bind to mammalian androgen receptors like anabolic androgenic steroids do and therefore do not exert the same effects. This could be a positive thing, since it means that, if ecdysteroids induce muscle growth and improve athletic performance similarly to androgenic steroids, they would do so with far fewer negative side effects.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Isenmann E, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Arch Toxicol (2019 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a><a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Parr MK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26060342" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents?
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biol Sport (2015 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a>

Are ecdysteroids the same as anabolic androgenic steroids?

Ecdysteroids are not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) list of banned substances. While they have been used frequently by athletes and bodybuilders as performance enhancers and to increase muscle growth, their effects in humans have not been thoroughly studied. However, they are currently under review, as some researchers have proposed they be added to the list of banned substances as part of the “other anabolic agents” section.<a href="#ref-21" id="ref-link-21" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Parr MK, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26060342" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents?
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biol Sport (2015 Jun)&lt;/div&gt;'>[21]</a><a href="#ref-22" id="ref-link-22" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Parr, M et al. &lt;a href="https://www.wada-ama.org/en/resources/scientific-research/ecdysteroids-non-conventional-anabolic-agents-pharmacodynamics" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agents: Pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and detection of ecdysterone, cited Apr 2024
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;(2015)&lt;/div&gt;'>[22]</a>

Are ecdysteroids banned in professional sports?

Ecdysteroids are a group of polyhydroxylated ketosteroids that are similar to androgens (e.g., testosterone). They were initially discovered in insects, where they are used during the molting process (when the exoskeleton is shed to allow for growth). Certain plants also contain ecdysteroids, where they play a role in protection from plant-eating insects. Ecdysteroids found in plants are called phytoecdysteroids, and those derived from animals are called zooecdysteroids.<a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Das N, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34386319" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The phytochemical, biological, and medicinal attributes of phytoecdysteroids: An updated review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Acta Pharm Sin B (2021 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a>
Phytoecdysteroids are more frequently used in supplements than zooecdysteroids, and sources include spinach, Cyanotis arachnoidea (a plant found in China), and Ajuga turkestanica (an Asian plant that lends its name to one of the most well-known ecdysteroid products, Turkesterone).<a href="#ref-5" id="ref-link-5" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Das N, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34386319" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;The phytochemical, biological, and medicinal attributes of phytoecdysteroids: An updated review.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Acta Pharm Sin B (2021 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[5]</a><a href="#ref-6" id="ref-link-6" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Martins JP, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33918334" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Combined Effects of Exercise and Phytoanabolic Extracts in Castrated Male and Female Mice.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Nutrients (2021 Apr 2)&lt;/div&gt;'>[6]</a> While ecdysteroids are a type of steroid hormone, they differ from human androgens in terms of their chemical structure, size, and polarity and therefore do not cause the hormone-related side effects that are associated with androgenic steroids.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a>

What are ecdysteroids?

Ecdysteroids are most well known as a supplement for athletic performance and muscle building. Some evidence supports these claims, although few studies have been done on humans. A study in 46 young men showed some benefit as measured by bench press strength and muscle growth compared to a placebo over 10 weeks.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Isenmann E, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Arch Toxicol (2019 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a><a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-8" id="ref-link-8" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Gorelick-Feldman J, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18444661" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Phytoecdysteroids increase protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Agric Food Chem (2008 May 28)&lt;/div&gt;'>[8]</a> Other studies to support these claims have been done on rats, showing improved muscle recovery,<a href="#ref-9" id="ref-link-9" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Zwetsloot KA, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36188800" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Phytoecdysteroids Accelerate Recovery of Skeletal Muscle Function Following in vivo Eccentric Contraction-Induced Injury in Adult and Old Mice.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Front Rehabil Sci (2021)&lt;/div&gt;'>[9]</a> increased grip strength,<a href="#ref-10" id="ref-link-10" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Báthori M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18220764" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Phytoecdysteroids and anabolic-androgenic steroids--structure and effects on humans.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Curr Med Chem (2008)&lt;/div&gt;'>[10]</a> and endurance (as demonstrated by a swimming test).<a href="#ref-11" id="ref-link-11" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;mb-3&quot;&gt;Olanow CW, Calne D. &lt;a href=&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1584429&quot; target=&quot;\_blank&quot; rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer&quot;&gt;Does selegiline monotherapy in Parkinson's disease act by symptomatic or protective mechanisms?
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Neurology (1992 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;">[11]</a> Future research in humans will be needed to confirm these findings, but research to date supports the idea that ecdysteroids have potential to improve athletic performance and muscle growth. 
An antiobesity effect has been noted in some studies done on rodents. Using 20-hydroxyecdysterone (20HE) in rats and gerbils on a high-calorie diet mitigated weight gain compared to control groups.<a href="#ref-1" id="ref-link-1" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kizelsztein P, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19126784" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone decreases weight and hyperglycemia in a diet-induced obesity mice model.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab (2009 Mar)&lt;/div&gt;'>[1]</a><a href="#ref-12" id="ref-link-12" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Seidlova-Wuttke D, Ehrhardt C, Wuttke W. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20097286" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Metabolic effects of 20-OH-ecdysone in ovariectomized rats.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol (2010 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[12]</a><a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> 20HE has also been shown to inhibit glucose production in rats and to lower glucose in a manner that is similar to some of the commonly used diabetic treatments, like metformin.<a href="#ref-13" id="ref-link-13" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Vestergaard P. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19176784" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Varying effects of psychotropic medications on fracture risk in older people.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Evid Based Ment Health (2009 Feb)&lt;/div&gt;'>[13]</a> This could be helpful in people with <a href="/conditions/prediabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Prediabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Prediabetes is the intermediate stage between healthy blood glucose levels and diabetes. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss induced by lifestyle intervention is the primary treatment and is very effective.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">prediabetes</a> or <a href="/conditions/type-2-diabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Type 2 Diabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease in which blood glucose levels are too high. It is characterized by insulin resistance in muscle, fat, and pancreas cells and an inability of the pancreas to manufacture enough insulin to control blood glucose levels. T2D is strongly associated with excess body fat, and weight loss induced by lifestyle changes is extremely effective for treating T2D.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">type 2 diabetes</a>, but it is not yet well studied in human populations.
In <a href="/conditions/menopause/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Menopause&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Menopause is the stage of life when menses permanently cease, and the reproductive system no longer performs functions related to fertility. A woman is considered to have entered menopause after menses have stopped for 12 months.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">menopausal</a> and postmenopausal women, 20HE could help to decrease adipose deposits, particularly visceral fat (fat around the abdominal organs) and fat deposits in the muscles and joints. This has multiple benefits, including a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, improved mobility, greater muscle mass, and an improved bone density. However, once again, more research is needed in humans to confirm these benefits.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-14" id="ref-link-14" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Kapur P, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20171072" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Beneficial effects of beta-Ecdysone on the joint, epiphyseal cartilage tissue and trabecular bone in ovariectomized rats.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Phytomedicine (2010 Apr)&lt;/div&gt;'>[14]</a>
A small <a href="/glossary/in-vitro-study/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;In Vitro Study&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;In vitro&lt;/em&gt; (Latin for “within the glass”) refers to studies that are performed outside of a living organism. In scientific research, this often involves performing experiments on bacterial, animal, or human cells growing in lab culture dishes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">in vitro</a> study<a href="#ref-15" id="ref-link-15" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Carme B, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3319250" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Drug resistance of Plasmodium falciparum in the Congo. 2. Comparative study in vivo of chloroquine and amodiaquine in Brazzaville schoolchildren (November 1986).
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Bull Soc Pathol Exot Filiales (1987)&lt;/div&gt;'>[15]</a> showed that ecdysteroids could suppress the growth of and increase cell death in certain types of breast cancer cells. The study also demonstrated a synergistic effect when ecdysterone is combined with doxorubicin (a chemotherapy drug often used in breast cancer treatment). 
In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), ecdysteroids have been studied as an alternative to steroids like dexamethasone, which are frequently used in combination with chemotherapy and radiation during treatment. 20HE showed positive results in in vitro studies, decreasing the proliferation of cancer cells, increasing cancer cell death, and improving the efficacy of certain chemotherapy drugs. These results are promising and will pave the way for the clinical trials that are needed to confirm these results in vivo.<a href="#ref-16" id="ref-link-16" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Farrugia M, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33661420" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Steroids-has the time come to extend their use to AML?
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Egypt Natl Canc Inst (2021 Mar 4)&lt;/div&gt;'>[16]</a>
Many other uses for ecdysteroids have been proposed, including respiratory disorders, renal failure, autoimmune disease, and sexual dysfunction.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> Research into these areas and others is ongoing, but currently the evidence to support these claims is minimal.

What are the main benefits of ecdysteroids?

There is minimal research on the use of ecdysteroids in humans, so the dosing remains unclear. While no clear severe side effects have been demonstrated, the safety of these products is also uncertain. A study done in young men without known health conditions found that dosages up to 800 mg daily did not cause any notable damage to the liver or kidneys over a 10-week period.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Isenmann E, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Arch Toxicol (2019 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a> No adverse effects have been noted in studies done on other mammals, with doses up to 100 mg per kg of body weight producing no noted adverse effects in rabbits.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> Studies on other mammals do not always apply to humans, and more evidence is needed to confirm the safe dose for humans.
Another problem is that commercially available ecdysteroid products are not regulated. This means they may not contain what they claim to contain, or they may not contain the amount of the active substance stated on the label.<a href="#ref-17" id="ref-link-17" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt; Lafont, R et al. &lt;a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia1040096" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Encyclopedia (2021-12)&lt;/div&gt;'>[17]</a><a href="#ref-18" id="ref-link-18" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Hunyadi A, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27929032" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroid-containing food supplements from Cyanotis arachnoidea on the European market: evidence for spinach product counterfeiting.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Sci Rep (2016 Dec 8)&lt;/div&gt;'>[18]</a>

What are the main drawbacks of ecdysteroids?

Ecdysteroids work in insects by binding to a receptor called the ecdysone nuclear receptor (EcR); however, no similar receptor has been found in mammals. In humans, the actions of ecdysteroids must therefore be through a different mechanism.<a href="#ref-3" id="ref-link-3" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Isenmann E, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Arch Toxicol (2019 Jul)&lt;/div&gt;'>[3]</a> Given the broad range of effects that ecdysteroids may have in mammals, more than one mechanism of action is possible. 
Ecdysteroids may act through a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), a receptor found on cell membranes that plays a role in cellular signaling. Specifically, ecdysteroids might bind to GPCRs found in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) — an important regulator of fluids, blood volume, and vasodilation that acts within the kidney. Ecdysteroids activate the MAS1 proto-oncogene (genes that regulate cell growth and differentiation) within this system, and this could enhance muscle protein synthesis.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a><a href="#ref-19" id="ref-link-19" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Lafont R, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34825653" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone activates the protective arm of the RAAS via the MAS receptor.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;J Mol Endocrinol (2021 Dec 23)&lt;/div&gt;'>[19]</a>
Ecdysterone also causes an influx of calcium ions into the cells, which causes an increase in the phosphorylation of Akt. Akt is a protein kinase that mediates protein synthesis, so if ecdysterone increases its activity, then this could be the mechanism through which it enhances muscle growth.<a href="#ref-20" id="ref-link-20" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Gorelick-Feldman J, Cohick W, Raskin I. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20363237" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;Ecdysteroids elicit a rapid Ca2+ flux leading to Akt activation and increased protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Steroids (2010 Oct)&lt;/div&gt;'>[20]</a> 
Finally, a type of estrogen receptor called estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) might be responsible for the actions of ecdysteroids in humans. The activation of ERβ has been related to muscle protein synthesis, and ecdysteroids have been shown to activate this receptor.<a href="#ref-7" id="ref-link-7" class="ref-link popover" data-tooltip='&lt;div&gt;&lt;p class="mb-3"&gt;Dinan L, et al. &lt;a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076" target="\_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"&gt;20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.
&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;Biomedicines (2021 Apr 29)&lt;/div&gt;'>[7]</a> 
The current data on how ecdysteroids work in mammals, and particularly in humans, is limited, and further research into the mechanisms of action is needed.

How do ecdysteroids work?

Ecdysteroids

Muscle Gain & Exercise

20-Hydroxyecdysone decreases weight and hyperglycemia in a diet-induced obesity mice model.

Efficacy of 20-OH-ecdysone on hepatic key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.

Effects of methoxyisoflavone, ecdysterone, and sulfo-polysaccharide supplementation on training adaptations in resistance-trained males

The phytochemical, biological, and medicinal attributes of phytoecdysteroids: An updated review.

Combined Effects of Exercise and Phytoanabolic Extracts in Castrated Male and Female Mice.

20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.

Phytoecdysteroids increase protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells.

Phytoecdysteroids Accelerate Recovery of Skeletal Muscle Function Following in vivo Eccentric Contraction-Induced Injury in Adult and Old Mice.

Phytoecdysteroids and anabolic-androgenic steroids--structure and effects on humans.

Does selegiline monotherapy in Parkinson's disease act by symptomatic or protective mechanisms?

Metabolic effects of 20-OH-ecdysone in ovariectomized rats.

Varying effects of psychotropic medications on fracture risk in older people.

Beneficial effects of beta-Ecdysone on the joint, epiphyseal cartilage tissue and trabecular bone in ovariectomized rats.

Drug resistance of Plasmodium falciparum in the Congo. 2. Comparative study in vivo of chloroquine and amodiaquine in Brazzaville schoolchildren (November 1986).

Steroids-has the time come to extend their use to AML?

Ecdysteroid-containing food supplements from Cyanotis arachnoidea on the European market: evidence for spinach product counterfeiting.

20-Hydroxyecdysone activates the protective arm of the RAAS via the MAS receptor.

Ecdysteroids elicit a rapid Ca2+ flux leading to Akt activation and increased protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells.

Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents?

Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agents: Pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and detection of ecdysterone, cited Apr 2024

Nick Milazzo

Conni Covington

Megan Michaux

Fat Loss

Body Composition

Cortisol

Lean Mass

Power Output

Testosterone

Muscle Size & Strength

Liver Enzymes

Total cholesterol

Triglycerides

General Athletic Performance

Ecdysteroids are also steroid hormones, and they act as androgens in arthropods. However, the receptors they use to induce these effects in arthropods are not found in humans. While more research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of action of ecdysteroids in mammals, it is clear that they do not bind to mammalian androgen receptors like anabolic androgenic steroids do and therefore do not exert the same effects. This could be a positive thing, since it means that, if ecdysteroids induce muscle growth and improve athletic performance similarly to androgenic steroids, they would do so with far fewer negative side effects.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801|title=Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.|published=2019 Jul|authors=Isenmann E, Ambrosio G, Joseph JF, Mazzarino M, de la Torre X, Zimmer P, Kazlauskas R, Goebel C, Botrè F, Diel P, Parr MK|journal=Arch Toxicol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26060342|title=Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents?|published=2015 Jun|authors=Parr MK, Botrè F, Naß A, Hengevoss J, Diel P, Wolber G|journal=Biol Sport|]

Ecdysteroids are not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) list of banned substances. While they have been used frequently by athletes and bodybuilders as performance enhancers and to increase muscle growth, their effects in humans have not been thoroughly studied. However, they are currently under review, as some researchers have proposed they be added to the list of banned substances as part of the “other anabolic agents” section.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26060342|title=Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents?|published=2015 Jun|authors=Parr MK, Botrè F, Naß A, Hengevoss J, Diel P, Wolber G|journal=Biol Sport|][reference|url=https://www.wada-ama.org/en/resources/scientific-research/ecdysteroids-non-conventional-anabolic-agents-pharmacodynamics|title=Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agents: Pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and detection of ecdysterone, cited Apr 2024|published=2015|authors=Parr, M et al]

Ecdysteroids are a group of polyhydroxylated ketosteroids that are similar to androgens (e.g., testosterone). They were initially discovered in insects, where they are used during the molting process (when the exoskeleton is shed to allow for growth). Certain plants also contain ecdysteroids, where they play a role in protection from plant-eating insects. Ecdysteroids found in plants are called phytoecdysteroids, and those derived from animals are called zooecdysteroids.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34386319|title=The phytochemical, biological, and medicinal attributes of phytoecdysteroids: An updated review.|published=2021 Jul|authors=Das N, Mishra SK, Bishayee A, Ali ES, Bishayee A|journal=Acta Pharm Sin B|]
Phytoecdysteroids are more frequently used in supplements than zooecdysteroids, and sources include spinach, Cyanotis arachnoidea (a plant found in China), and Ajuga turkestanica (an Asian plant that lends its name to one of the most well-known ecdysteroid products, Turkesterone).[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34386319|title=The phytochemical, biological, and medicinal attributes of phytoecdysteroids: An updated review.|published=2021 Jul|authors=Das N, Mishra SK, Bishayee A, Ali ES, Bishayee A|journal=Acta Pharm Sin B|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33918334|title=Combined Effects of Exercise and Phytoanabolic Extracts in Castrated Male and Female Mice.|published=2021 Apr 2|authors=Martins JP, Silva LC, Nunes MS, Rübensam G, Oliveira JR, Silva RBM, Campos MM|journal=Nutrients|] While ecdysteroids are a type of steroid hormone, they differ from human androgens in terms of their chemical structure, size, and polarity and therefore do not cause the hormone-related side effects that are associated with androgenic steroids.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|]

Ecdysteroids are most well known as a supplement for athletic performance and muscle building. Some evidence supports these claims, although few studies have been done on humans. A study in 46 young men showed some benefit as measured by bench press strength and muscle growth compared to a placebo over 10 weeks.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801|title=Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.|published=2019 Jul|authors=Isenmann E, Ambrosio G, Joseph JF, Mazzarino M, de la Torre X, Zimmer P, Kazlauskas R, Goebel C, Botrè F, Diel P, Parr MK|journal=Arch Toxicol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18444661|title=Phytoecdysteroids increase protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells.|published=2008 May 28|authors=Gorelick-Feldman J, Maclean D, Ilic N, Poulev A, Lila MA, Cheng D, Raskin I|journal=J Agric Food Chem|] Other studies to support these claims have been done on rats, showing improved muscle recovery,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36188800|title=Phytoecdysteroids Accelerate Recovery of Skeletal Muscle Function Following in vivo Eccentric Contraction-Induced Injury in Adult and Old Mice.|published=2021|authors=Zwetsloot KA, Shanely RA, Godwin JS, Hodgman CF|journal=Front Rehabil Sci|] increased grip strength,[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18220764|title=Phytoecdysteroids and anabolic-androgenic steroids--structure and effects on humans.|published=2008|authors=Báthori M, Tóth N, Hunyadi A, Márki A, Zádor E|journal=Curr Med Chem|] and endurance (as demonstrated by a swimming test).[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1584429|title=Does selegiline monotherapy in Parkinson's disease act by symptomatic or protective mechanisms?|published=1992 Apr|authors=Olanow CW, Calne D|journal=Neurology|] Future research in humans will be needed to confirm these findings, but research to date supports the idea that ecdysteroids have potential to improve athletic performance and muscle growth. 
An antiobesity effect has been noted in some studies done on rodents. Using 20-hydroxyecdysterone (20HE) in rats and gerbils on a high-calorie diet mitigated weight gain compared to control groups.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19126784|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone decreases weight and hyperglycemia in a diet-induced obesity mice model.|published=2009 Mar|authors=Kizelsztein P, Govorko D, Komarnytsky S, Evans A, Wang Z, Cefalu WT, Raskin I|journal=Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20097286|title=Metabolic effects of 20-OH-ecdysone in ovariectomized rats.|published=2010 Apr|authors=Seidlova-Wuttke D, Ehrhardt C, Wuttke W|journal=J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|] 20HE has also been shown to inhibit glucose production in rats and to lower glucose in a manner that is similar to some of the commonly used diabetic treatments, like metformin.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19176784|title=Varying effects of psychotropic medications on fracture risk in older people.|published=2009 Feb|authors=Vestergaard P|journal=Evid Based Ment Health|] This could be helpful in people with <a href="/conditions/prediabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Prediabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Prediabetes is the intermediate stage between healthy blood glucose levels and diabetes. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss induced by lifestyle intervention is the primary treatment and is very effective.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">prediabetes</a> or <a href="/conditions/type-2-diabetes/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Type 2 Diabetes&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease in which blood glucose levels are too high. It is characterized by insulin resistance in muscle, fat, and pancreas cells and an inability of the pancreas to manufacture enough insulin to control blood glucose levels. T2D is strongly associated with excess body fat, and weight loss induced by lifestyle changes is extremely effective for treating T2D.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">type 2 diabetes</a>, but it is not yet well studied in human populations.
In <a href="/conditions/menopause/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;Menopause&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;Menopause is the stage of life when menses permanently cease, and the reproductive system no longer performs functions related to fertility. A woman is considered to have entered menopause after menses have stopped for 12 months.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">menopausal</a> and postmenopausal women, 20HE could help to decrease adipose deposits, particularly visceral fat (fat around the abdominal organs) and fat deposits in the muscles and joints. This has multiple benefits, including a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, improved mobility, greater muscle mass, and an improved bone density. However, once again, more research is needed in humans to confirm these benefits.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20171072|title=Beneficial effects of beta-Ecdysone on the joint, epiphyseal cartilage tissue and trabecular bone in ovariectomized rats.|published=2010 Apr|authors=Kapur P, Wuttke W, Jarry H, Seidlova-Wuttke D|journal=Phytomedicine|]
A small <a href="/glossary/in-vitro-study/" class="popover" data-tooltip="&lt;div&gt;&lt;h6&gt;In Vitro Study&lt;/h6&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;In vitro&lt;/em&gt; (Latin for “within the glass”) refers to studies that are performed outside of a living organism. In scientific research, this often involves performing experiments on bacterial, animal, or human cells growing in lab culture dishes.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">in vitro</a> study[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3319250|title=Drug resistance of Plasmodium falciparum in the Congo. 2. Comparative study in vivo of chloroquine and amodiaquine in Brazzaville schoolchildren (November 1986).|published=1987|authors=Carme B, Mbitsi A, Moudzeo H, Ndinga M, Eozenou P|journal=Bull Soc Pathol Exot Filiales|] showed that ecdysteroids could suppress the growth of and increase cell death in certain types of breast cancer cells. The study also demonstrated a synergistic effect when ecdysterone is combined with doxorubicin (a chemotherapy drug often used in breast cancer treatment). 
In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), ecdysteroids have been studied as an alternative to steroids like dexamethasone, which are frequently used in combination with chemotherapy and radiation during treatment. 20HE showed positive results in in vitro studies, decreasing the proliferation of cancer cells, increasing cancer cell death, and improving the efficacy of certain chemotherapy drugs. These results are promising and will pave the way for the clinical trials that are needed to confirm these results in vivo.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33661420|title=Steroids-has the time come to extend their use to AML?|published=2021 Mar 4|authors=Farrugia M, Cutajar C, Agius JC, Wismayer PS|journal=J Egypt Natl Canc Inst|]
Many other uses for ecdysteroids have been proposed, including respiratory disorders, renal failure, autoimmune disease, and sexual dysfunction.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|] Research into these areas and others is ongoing, but currently the evidence to support these claims is minimal.

There is minimal research on the use of ecdysteroids in humans, so the dosing remains unclear. While no clear severe side effects have been demonstrated, the safety of these products is also uncertain. A study done in young men without known health conditions found that dosages up to 800 mg daily did not cause any notable damage to the liver or kidneys over a 10-week period.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801|title=Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.|published=2019 Jul|authors=Isenmann E, Ambrosio G, Joseph JF, Mazzarino M, de la Torre X, Zimmer P, Kazlauskas R, Goebel C, Botrè F, Diel P, Parr MK|journal=Arch Toxicol|] No adverse effects have been noted in studies done on other mammals, with doses up to 100 mg per kg of body weight producing no noted adverse effects in rabbits.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|] Studies on other mammals do not always apply to humans, and more evidence is needed to confirm the safe dose for humans.
Another problem is that commercially available ecdysteroid products are not regulated. This means they may not contain what they claim to contain, or they may not contain the amount of the active substance stated on the label.[reference|url=https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia1040096|title=Ecdysteroids|authors= Lafont, R et al|journal=Encyclopedia|published=2021-12][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27929032|title=Ecdysteroid-containing food supplements from Cyanotis arachnoidea on the European market: evidence for spinach product counterfeiting.|published=2016 Dec 8|authors=Hunyadi A, Herke I, Lengyel K, Báthori M, Kele Z, Simon A, Tóth G, Szendrei K|journal=Sci Rep|]

Ecdysteroids work in insects by binding to a receptor called the ecdysone nuclear receptor (EcR); however, no similar receptor has been found in mammals. In humans, the actions of ecdysteroids must therefore be through a different mechanism.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801|title=Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans.|published=2019 Jul|authors=Isenmann E, Ambrosio G, Joseph JF, Mazzarino M, de la Torre X, Zimmer P, Kazlauskas R, Goebel C, Botrè F, Diel P, Parr MK|journal=Arch Toxicol|] Given the broad range of effects that ecdysteroids may have in mammals, more than one mechanism of action is possible. 
Ecdysteroids may act through a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), a receptor found on cell membranes that plays a role in cellular signaling. Specifically, ecdysteroids might bind to GPCRs found in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) — an important regulator of fluids, blood volume, and vasodilation that acts within the kidney. Ecdysteroids activate the MAS1 proto-oncogene (genes that regulate cell growth and differentiation) within this system, and this could enhance muscle protein synthesis.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|][reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34825653|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone activates the protective arm of the RAAS via the MAS receptor.|published=2021 Dec 23|authors=Lafont R, Serova M, Didry-Barca B, Raynal S, Guibout L, Dinan L, Veillet S, Latil M, Dioh W, Dilda PJ|journal=J Mol Endocrinol|]
Ecdysterone also causes an influx of calcium ions into the cells, which causes an increase in the phosphorylation of Akt. Akt is a protein kinase that mediates protein synthesis, so if ecdysterone increases its activity, then this could be the mechanism through which it enhances muscle growth.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20363237|title=Ecdysteroids elicit a rapid Ca2+ flux leading to Akt activation and increased protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells.|published=2010 Oct|authors=Gorelick-Feldman J, Cohick W, Raskin I|journal=Steroids|] 
Finally, a type of estrogen receptor called estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) might be responsible for the actions of ecdysteroids in humans. The activation of ERβ has been related to muscle protein synthesis, and ecdysteroids have been shown to activate this receptor.[reference|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947076|title=20-Hydroxyecdysone, from Plant Extracts to Clinical Use: Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neuromuscular, Cardio-Metabolic and Respiratory Diseases.|published=2021 Apr 29|authors=Dinan L, Dioh W, Veillet S, Lafont R|journal=Biomedicines|] 
The current data on how ecdysteroids work in mammals, and particularly in humans, is limited, and further research into the mechanisms of action is needed.

Ecdysteroids

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