Hastur
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Introducing Olympus UK's SUP3R-11
The Ultimate 11-Ketotestosterone Guide
All you need to know!
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Now that SUP3R-11 has finally been released, let's talk a bit about it and it's active compound, shall we?
The Ultimate 11-Ketotestosterone Guide
All you need to know!
Invalid Link Removed
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Now that SUP3R-11 has finally been released, let's talk a bit about it and it's active compound, shall we?
~Introduction to 11-KT:
11-Ketotestosterone or 11-KT, is sometimes referred to by its synonyms 17-Hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3,11-dione or 11-Oxotestosterone and occasionally by its nomenclature '17b-hydroxy-4-androstene-3,11-dione'. It is the primary, and most potent, androgen in fish and thus is present in the food supply. It can also be found in trace amounts as a naturally-occurring metabolite of adrenal hormones in humans. It is produced in humans when 11b-hydroxyandrostenedione is secreted by the adrenal glands and converted via 11b-HSD2 and 17b-HSD, but is also believed to be produced from androgens in the testes and ovaries via Steroid 11-beta-hydroxylase. 11-KT is not a designer steroid as it has not been modified in any way, nor is it a prohormone because it requires no conversion and is already in its active form. Structurally speaking, 11-KT is simply an oxidized form of Testosterone that contains a keto group at position-11. However, unlike Testosterone, it does not aromatize, which means it won't convert to Estrogen. Thus 11-KT is considered a dry compound, with no risk of water retention, bloating or gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men). One characteristic 11-KT does have in common with Testosterone is its ability to activate AR-mediated transcription as effectively and strongly when transcriptional activity was tested in the murine androgen receptor. [1]
However, it's most unique trait, and indeed what makes it extremely desirable, lies in the fact that it is capable of selectively inhibiting the function of the 11beta-HSD isoform known as '11b-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1' (11beta-HSD1) or 'cortisone reductase', an enzyme responsible for converting Cortisone to the catabolic hormone Cortisol in target tissues such as adipose, liver and skeletal muscle. Through competitive inhibition 11-KT occupies the enzyme 11beta-HSD1, preventing Cortisone from accessing it. By preventing Cortisone from accessing 11beta-HSD1 it cannot be reduced to Cortisol, resulting in lower Cortisol levels. This is desirable because chronically elevated glucocorticoid levels (such as Cortisol) cause obesity, diabetes, heart disease, mood disorders and memory impairments. High levels of glucocorticoids can cause adipocyte differentiation (leading to increased fat) and increased hepatic glucose production (leading to increased insulin resistance), amongst other complications. In fact, obese humans and rodents show increased 11beta-HSD1 in adipose tissue. [2]
To further illustrate the significance of 11beta-HSD1, consider this, muscle wasting is a common problem as human’s age. Not only is this a problem for the general population, but it also affects aging bodybuilders as well. Interestingly enough 11beta-HSD inhibitors are in development for the possible treatment of general Cortisol induced aging, amongst various other purposes. According to one study, higher levels of 11beta-HSD1 expression were associated with lower muscle strength in older men. [3] Thus with 11-KT being an 11beta-HSD1 inhibitor, it could potentially prevent or even reverse age induced loss of muscle strength.
Another important aspect of 11-KT is that it is "non-methlyated" (not 17a-methylated) unlike prohormones/designer steroids such as Halodrol or Epistane, so there is no need for strong liver support like TUDCA while using 11-KT because it is not hepatotoxic. But since it is not 17a-methylated it lacks protection when passing through the liver. This is where transdermal delivery comes into play, which bypasses first-pass hepatic metabolism by going direct-to-bloodstream. This means more 11-KT in your blood stream and less broken down by the liver. And because 11-KT has a molecular weight of 302.41 it is perfect for transdermal delivery, as the "500 Dalton rule" states the molecular weight of a compound must be under 500 Dalton to allow skin absorption. All known topical drugs used in transdermal drug-delivery systems are under 500 Dalton. [4] Transdermal delivery also comes with the added benefit of releasing compounds slowly over a longer period of time, meaning blood levels won't rapidly peak and then dissipate as can be seen with oral administration.
~Difference between 11-KT & 11-OXO:
People confuse 11-KT and 11-OXO frequently, but they are not the same compound, and the two names cannot be used interchangeably. Here are the differences between these two compounds:
11-OXO, which is sometimes referred to by its synonyms Adrenosterone, 11-oxo-androstenedione, 11-keto-androstenetrione or 11-keto-androstenedione and occasionally it's nomenclature 'Androst-4-ene-3,11,17-trione' is a steroid hormone with weak androgenic effect. It is also a prohormone to the active androgen 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), this conversion has been demonstrated in the green algae genus Scenedesmus and it is thought that a similar metabolism pathway occurs in humans, which contributes to 11-OXO's androgenic effects. [5]
Simply put, 11-OXO is a 1-step precursor to 11-KT. The difference in dosages between the two is notable, with 11-OXO requiring 300-1000mg orally for results and 11-KT only requiring 85-250mg transdermally for results. However, because the conversion percentage of 11-OXO to 11-KT has never been established, these dosage ranges aren't on equal footing. For example, at the highest ranges, 1000mg 11-OXO orally does not necessarily equate to 250mg 11-KT transdermally.
~Effects of 11-KT:
It is worth highlighting the numerous effects that 11-KT has, and how it could be a beneficial addition to a cycle:
-Cortisol Control
-Muscle Hardening (Increased muscle hardness)
-Anti-Catabolic (Muscle mass retention in a caloric deficit/while cutting)
-Mildly Anabolic (Mild increases in lean body mass via enhanced protein synthesis)
-Increased Vascularity
-Increased Strength
-Increased Recovery Speed
-Decreased Body Fat (Via increased fat loss)
-Decreased Fat Storage (Reduced fat accumulation in a caloric surplus/while bulking)
It runs counter to the popular misconception that you cannot lose fat and gain muscle concurrently; in fact it is best known for improving body composition by doing exactly that. It is an excellent choice for cutting, recomping and lean bulking. It is an especially good choice for those with elevated stress due to its ability to control Cortisol, and for older men staving off age related diminishing strength. As logic would dictate, those on a cutting cycle will experience lower strength and size gains than those recomping or bulking, but will retain muscle mass while simultaneously reducing body fat at an accelerated rate. For those on a bulking cycle, more notable increases in strength and size will be seen, with minimized fat deposition when eating a caloric surplus.
~Side Effects of 11-KT:
11-KT is noted for its low risk of side effects, and in the event of side effects they’re typically mild. Most frequently joint dryness and potentially higher propensity to injury (due to low cortisol levels and typically seen at dosages higher than 250mg). However, because of its mild androgenic nature, side effects such as acne, acceleration of male pattern baldness (if genetically susceptible), and increased or decreased sex drive are all possible, though rarely experienced. Due to the risk of masculinization (virilizing side effects), this compound is unsuitable for women and children. Because the method of delivery is transdermal, the risk of accidental exposure should be taken into consideration when applying, avoiding application sites where women or children may come in direct contact.
~Dosing, Cycle Length, Stacking and Timing:
When used as a standalone, 85mg-250mg daily via transdermal delivery for 30-60 days is regarded as the optimal dosage and cycle length. Because of its mild nature as a standalone, many consider it to be a fantastic beginner-level compound for those looking to run their first cycle.
However it is not uncommon to see experienced lifters with more than 2 cycles under their belt stack it with other compounds. Due to it being non-methylated, it can stack with virtually any popular designer steroid or pro-hormone. For those looking to run a cutting cycle, pairing it with Epiandro or 1-Andro would yield excellent results. And for those bulking, it would help minimize fat storage while bulking on a strong compound such as Trest. It's an extremely versatile compound that can fit into essentially any cycle.
On the subject of timing, due to the morning cortisol rise being regarded as an important part of arousal, users may not wish to interfere with the process by taking 11-KT at night prior to bed. Late morning or early afternoon dosing is likely optimal for 11-KT dosing.
~Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) for 11-KT:
Due to its very mild androgenic nature, it is possible that 11-KT will cause some degree of suppression. Therefore it is recommended that at the very least an OTC product for PCT be utilized following an 11-KT cycle. Of course, the degree of PCT required depends upon how it is utilized, with stronger PCT products being required if 11-KT is stacked with other hormonal products while on-cycle.
~11-Ketotestosterone Example Cycles & Stacking Guidelines:
Though there are many ways 11-KT can be utilized, here are just a few examples to better illustrate the versatility of the compound. Note: These are just examples, and cycles can be ran longer than 4 weeks, dosed at different times, and stacked with other compounds.
*Beginner - Standalone Cycle: (30 Day Cycle, Over 4 Weeks)
-11-KT - 250/250/250/250 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-11)
Apply 4mL, once per day, preferably mid-day or 30-60 minutes pre-workout, or alternatively 2mL twice a day when convenient.
*Advanced/Experienced - Cutting Cycle: (30 Day Cycle, Over 4 Weeks)
-11-KT ------ 250/250/250/250 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-11)
-Epi-Andro - 1000/1000/1000/1000 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-EPI ELITE - 120 Caps)
-IGNIT3 ------ 5/5/5/5 [Caps per day] (1 bottle Olympus Labs IGNIT3 - 150 Caps)
Apply 4mL SUP3R-11 once per day, preferably mid-day or 30-60 minutes pre-workout, or alternatively 2mL twice a day when convenient. Take 1 Capsule SUP3R-EPI ELITE, four times per day spaced out, with meals containing Fats. And take 3 Capsules IGNIT3 on an empty stomach prior to breakfast with an additional 2 Capsules later in the day.
*Advanced/Experienced - Recomp Cycle: (30 Day Cycle, Over 4 Weeks)
-11-KT --- 250/250/250/250 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-11)
-1-Andro - 330/330/330/330 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-1 ELITE - 90 Caps)
-4-Andro - 330/330/330/330 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-4 ELITE - 90 Caps)
Apply 4mL SUP3R-11 once per day, preferably mid-day or 30-60 minutes pre-workout, or alternatively 2mL twice a day when convenient. Take 1 Capsule SUP3R-1 ELITE and 1 Capsule SUP3R-4 ELITE, three times per day each, spaced out, with meals containing Fats.
*Advanced/Experienced - Bulking Cycle: (30 Day Cycle, Over 4 Weeks)
-11-KT --- 250/250/250/250 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-11)
-1-Andro - 330/330/330/330 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-1 ELITE - 90 Caps)
-Trest ----- 100/100/100/100 (1 bottle Olympus UK TR3ST - 120 Caps)
Apply 4mL SUP3R-11 once per day, preferably mid-day or 30-60 minutes pre-workout, or alternatively 2mL twice a day when convenient. Take 1 Capsule SUP3R-1 ELITE, three times per day spaced out, and 1 Capsule TR3ST four times per day spaced out, both with meals containing Fats.
*Experienced - Ultimate Demi-God Cycle: (30 Day Cycle, Over 4 Weeks) [For experienced users only!]
-11-KT ------ 250/250/250/250 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-11)
-Epi-Andro - 1000/1000/1000/1000 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-EPI ELITE - 120 Caps)
-1-Andro ---- 330/330/330/330 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-1 ELITE - 90 Caps)
-4-Andro ---- 330/330/330/330 (1 bottle Olympus UK SUP3R-4 ELITE - 90 Caps)
-Trest ------- 100/100/100/100 (1 bottle Olympus UK TR3ST - 120 Caps)
Apply 4mL SUP3R-11 once per day, preferably mid-day or 30-60 minutes pre-workout, or alternatively 2mL twice a day when convenient. Take 1 Capsule SUP3R-1 ELITE and 1 Capsule SUP3R-4 ELITE, three times per day each, and 1 Capsule SUP3R-EPI ELITE and 1 Capsule TR3ST four times per day, spaced out, with meals containing Fats.
*Post Cycle Therapy (PCT): (30 Days, Over 4 Weeks)
-Olympus Labs Sup3r PCT (As indicated on label)
-SERM of choice on hand (E.g. Clomid, Nolvadex, Toremifene) (Dosage depends on chosen SERM)
-Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) of choice on hand (E.g. Exemestane, Anastrozole) (Dosage depends on chosen AI)
~Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is a SERM necessary in PCT?
A: Though 11-KT may be less suppressive than other compounds such as Trest or 1-Andro, this does not mean it can't or won't cause HPTA suppression to some degree. With each individual being unique and responding differently, some are likely more suppressed to a greater degree than others. Typically, blood work is recommended before and after a cycle to determine this. However many users do not follow this protocol. If you are NOT getting blood tests done to establish baseline pre-cycle levels and determine post-cycle levels, run a SERM no matter how you feel. (*Note: Subjective feelings of well-being are not reliable indicators of hormonal levels)
Q: After applying SUP3R-11 there are visible white flecks sitting atop my skin when it dried, is this normal?
A: Yes, in fact, it is extremely common with transdermals and will not effect the efficacy of the product, so there is no need to worry.
Q: Where do I apply SUP3R-11? What are the optimal application sites for absorption?
A: The two most important factors when using transdermals are site of application and surface area of application. In a paper published in the book "Transdermal Absorption of Dermatological Products", the percutaneous absorption of benzoic acid was measured at 11 different sites. From this paper it would appear optimal to apply transdermals to the postauricular/neck/clavicle region. This would be behind the ear, down the side of the neck, around the front of the traps and over your collar bones. Picture included to help illustrate:
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Depending on the dosage, you may be able to apply to both sides of the neck and not require other application sites. However with 2 transdermals, you likely require other sites unless you are using very low dosages. For this, we need to consider the thickness of the stratum corneum at the site of application, because the thicker it is the less flux you'll achieve. And thickness of the stratum corneum is highly variable across different areas of the body, due to differences in the number of stratum corneum cell layers. According to one Japanese study (Z. Ya-Xian, 1999) where hundreds of subjects had their number of stratum corneum cell layers at many points measured: Genitals: 6, Face: 9, Neck: 10, Scalp: 12, Trunk: 13, Limbs: 15, Palms and soles: 47, Heels: 86. Now Genitals, Face and Scalp should be avoided. We are already utilizing the Neck. So the Trunk is the next logical location for application. I apply to the upper chest and upper abdominal region.
The second factor regards surface area, and for this we must consider transdermal flux, which is measured in µg/cm²/hour, so the more square centimeters you spread your dose over, the more flux you'll achieve. Spread the transdermal as thinly and as broadly as possible for optimal results. (Note: Please do not apply to the face or genitals. Those areas contain a lot of sensitive nerve-endings, and application at these areas may cause pain or discomfort.)
In summary, spread your transdermals as thinly and broadly as possible behind the ear, down the neck, around the traps, and over the collar bones. And if you require more application sites, utilize the trunk, specifically upper chest and the upper abdominal region.
~References:
[1] Yazawa T, Uesaka M, Inaoka Y, Mizutani T, Sekiguchi T, Kajitani T, et al. Cyp11b1 Is Induced in the Murine Gonad by Luteinizing Hormone/Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Involved in the Production of 11-Ketotestosterone, a Major Fish Androgen: Conservation and Evolution of the Androgen Metabolic Pathway. Endocrinology. 2008 Apr 1;149(4):1786–92.
[2] Wamil M, Seckl JR. Inhibition of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 as a promising therapeutic target. Drug Discov Today. 2007 Jul;12(13-14):504-20. Epub 2007 Jun 27. (PMID: 17631244)
[3] Kilgour AH, Gallagher IJ, MacLullich AM, Andrew R, Gray CD, Hyde P, Wackerhage H, Husi H, Ross JA, Starr JM, Chapman KE, Fearon KC, Walker BR, Greig CA. Increased skeletal muscle 11ßHSD1 mRNA is associated with lower muscle strength in ageing. PLoS One. 2013 Dec 31;8(12):e84057. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084057. eCollection 2013. (PMID: 24391882)
[4] Bos JD, Meinardi MM. The 500 Dalton rule for the skin penetration of chemical compounds and drugs. Exp Dermatol. 2000 Jun;9(3):165-9. (PMID: 10839713)
[5] Greca, M. D.; Fiorentino, A.; Guerriero, I.; Pinto, G.; Pollio, A.; Previtera, L. (1997). "Biotransformation of adrenosterone into 11-ketotestosterone by Scenedesmus quadricauda grown in myxotrophic conditions". Biotechnology Letters 19 (11): 1123–1124. doi:10.1023/A:1018448828758.
*This write-up was fueled by Olympus Labs Elix1r
~Proof of Olympus UK's Quality Control:
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You can see the M.W in the MS chart, and in our LC-MS, the impact-chemical ionization source is ES-API Positive, so M.W.+1 = 303, and the M.W is 302, which is 11-KT. The purity is 97.1% by LC-MS
I hope this has illustrated just why SUP3R-11 is such an exciting product and yet another fantastic addition to the Olympus UK line! Stayed tuned for more on SUP3R-11!
I'd like to give a shout-out to my fellow Olympus UK brothers: Jebrook, NewAgeMayan, edje007 and Lucianooo!
And to my other brothers over at Olympus Labs: GNO, NoAddedHmones, kboxer7 and xtyler!
