PHARMACOLOGICAL
ACTIONS
Androgens produce both
virilizing and protein anabolic actions (Table 63.1). The virilizing actions of
testos-terone include irreversible effects that occur during em-bryogenesis,
that is, those that induce differentiation of the central nervous system and
male reproductive tracts, and the excitatory
actions at puberty that are
In addi-tion to the effects on male reproductive function,
an-drogens influence a number of other systems, many of which are associated
with masculinity. These actions in-clude the growth of male-pattern facial,
pubic, and body hair, the lower vocal pitch resulting from a thickening
Androgens also terminate long bone growth by induc-ing closure of the
epiphyses. The degree of virilization and timing of puberty also affect peak
bone density and risk of osteoporosis in males.
The protein anabolic actions
of androgens on bone and skeletal muscle are responsible for the larger stature
of males than females. Androgens induce some degree of anabolism in other
tissues, including bone marrow, liver, kidney, and heart. They also have
several other actions, not necessarily associated with maleness, such as
lymphoid tissue regression during puberty.
Related Topics
Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, DMCA Policy and Compliant
Copyright © 2018-2023 BrainKart.com; All Rights Reserved. Developed by Therithal info, Chennai.