These effects include the growth and maturation of prostate , seminal vesicles, penis, and scrotum. Drugs in this class also cause retention of nitrogen, sodium , potassium , phosphorus, and decreased urinary excretion of calcium. Androgens have been reported to increase protein anabolism and decrease protein catabolism.
Nitrogen balance is improved only when there is sufficient intake of calories and protein.
Androgens are responsible for the growth spurt of adolescence and for the eventual termination of linear growth which is brought about by fusion of the epiphyseal growth centers. In children, exogenous androgens accelerate linear growth rates, but may cause a disproportionate advancement in bone maturation. Use over long periods may result in fusion of the epiphyseal growth centers and termination of growth process. Androgens have been reported to stimulate the production of red blood cells by enhancing the production of erythropoietic stimulating factor. There is a lack of substantial evidence that androgens are effective in fractures, surgery , convalescence and functional uterine bleeding.