Clascoterone vs MK-2866
FDA Approved vs Moderate Research
monitor Mechanism-based · 51% Both Clascoterone and MK-2866 carry androgenic activity. Additive androgenic load increases risk of acne, hair loss, and prostate effects. Monitor for dose-dependent side effects.
Molecular Data
Clascoterone MK-2866
Weight 388.54 Da 389.33 Da
Half-life Short topical (local action; rapidly metabolized to cortexolone) ~24 hours
Type Steroidal androgen receptor inhibitor Non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (C19H14F3N3O3)
Key Benefits
Clascoterone
01 First-in-class topical androgen receptor inhibitor with FDA approval for acne
02 Blocks androgen action locally at the sebaceous gland and hair follicle without systemic hormonal effects
03 Suitable for both men and women, unlike systemic anti-androgens
04 Rapidly metabolized to inactive cortexolone, limiting systemic exposure
05 No clinically meaningful effects on systemic testosterone, DHT, or gonadotropin levels
06 Addresses the root androgen-driven pathology of both acne and androgenetic alopecia
MK-2866
01 Increases lean body mass in a dose-dependent manner with clinical trial support
02 Preserves muscle mass during caloric deficit or catabolic conditions
03 Selective tissue activity reduces androgenic side effects compared to anabolic steroids
04 Oral bioavailability eliminates the need for injections
05 Does not aromatize to estrogen, avoiding gynecomastia and water retention
06 Improves physical function and stair-climbing power in clinical populations
07 Long 24-hour half-life allows convenient once-daily dosing
08 Mild side effect profile at commonly studied doses
Side Effects
Clascoterone
Application site irritation, redness, or dryness
Pruritus (itching) at the application site
Contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
MK-2866
Mild testosterone suppression (dose-dependent, typically 10-30% reduction at 25 mg)
HDL cholesterol reduction (10-20% suppression observed in clinical trials)
Headaches, particularly during the first 1-2 weeks
Mild back pain or muscle cramps
Transient fatigue toward the end of longer cycles
Slight reduction in libido at higher doses or extended cycle lengths
Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to clascoterone or any component of the formulation
Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (anti-androgens carry theoretical teratogenic risk)
Women who are breastfeeding (safety not established)
Active skin infections at the intended application site
Active liver disease or significantly elevated liver enzymes
Hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate) without oncologist clearance
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (potential endocrine disruption to fetus/infant)
Individuals under 21 years of age (risk of premature HPTA disruption during development)
Concurrent use of hepatotoxic medications without liver function monitoring
Known hypersensitivity to MK-2866 or any formulation excipients
Competitive athletes subject to WADA or USADA anti-doping testing
Research Evidence
Clascoterone MK-2866
Status FDA Approved Moderate Research
References 4 studies 5 studies
FDA Approved Yes No
This comparison is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.