16-Dehydropregnenolone Acetate
(16 DPA)

Written by

Reviewed by

Picture of Gaurav Sood
Gaurav Sood

Partner - HimPharm

Picture of Dr B M Sood
Dr B M Sood

Chairman - HimPharm

16 DPA Manufactured by HimPharm

Trade Names: None
Routes of Administration: Oral, Topical
ATC Code: Not Applicable

Identifiers

  • CAS Number: 16561-29-8
  • PubChem CID: 5353017
  • ChemSpider ID: 4511503

Chemical and Physical Data

  • Molecular Formula C18H28O2
  • Molar Mass 276.41 g/mol

SMILES: CC1CCC2C3CCC4=CC(=O)CCC4(C3CCC2C1)O

InChI: InChI=1S/C18H28O2/c1-13(10-16-7-8-17(19)12-16)15-5-6-18(15,3)14(11-16)4-2/h12-14,16-17,19H,2,5-11H2,1,3-4H3

Introduction

What is 16-Dehydropregnenolone Acetate (16 DPA)?

16 Dehydropregnenolone Acetate (16 DPA)

16 Dehydropregnenolone Acetate, commonly referred to as 16 DPA, is a vital chemical compound serving as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various steroids and sex hormones. It plays a crucial role in pharmaceutical manufacturing, particularly in the production of corticosteroids and sex hormones like DHA and prednisolone.

This compound, with the molecular formula C23H32O3, acts as a fundamental precursor, influencing the synthesis of essential hormones essential for health and wellness applications. Its significance lies in its ability to facilitate the efficient production of hormones vital for various physiological functions.

Impact of 16 DPA on Pharmaceutical Industry

The presence of 16 DPA has revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry, offering a pathway for the synthesis of crucial hormones and steroids. Its role as a precursor ensures the streamlined production of corticosteroids and sex hormones, which find extensive applications in healthcare, wellness, and pharmaceutical sectors globally.

The availability of 16 DPA API as a pharmaceutical intermediate has significantly enhanced the efficiency of hormone synthesis, enabling pharmaceutical companies to meet the growing demand for hormone-related medications and therapies. 

Without 16 DPA, the pharmaceutical industry would face substantial challenges in the production of essential hormones critical for addressing various medical conditions.

Understanding 16 DPA

What is 16 DPA?

16 DPA, in its raw form, appears as a crystalline substance, often in powder or solid state. It maintains a characteristic white or off-white color and exhibits distinct physical properties. The compound serves as a pivotal intermediate in the synthesis of steroids and sex hormones, exerting intense effects on hormone production pathways.

Applications of 16 DPA

The applications of 16 DPA extend across diverse sectors, including health, wellness, herbal medicine, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. It serves as a foundational ingredient in the formulation of various products aimed at promoting health and addressing specific medical conditions. 

Pharmaceutical companies, healthcare institutions, and manufacturers in the herbal medicine and nutraceutical sectors leverage 16 DPA to create a wide array of formulations catering to diverse consumer needs.

Physical Characteristics of 16 DPA

In its crystalline form, 16 DPA possesses distinct physical characteristics. The compound typically exhibits a white or off-white color and appears in powder or solid form. Its crystalline structure and purity are crucial factors influencing its efficacy and suitability for pharmaceutical applications.

Source and Processing of 16 DPA

The primary source of 16 DPA is Diosgenin, a natural compound extracted from certain plant sources, notably yams. Diosgenin undergoes a series of chemical processes, including acetylation, to transform into 16 DPA. Specialized pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, such as HimPharm’s manufacturing facility, play a pivotal role in the synthesis and production of 16 DPA on a commercial scale.

Importance of 16 DPA

The significance of 16 DPA lies in its role as a crucial intermediate in the synthesis of steroids and sex hormones. As a precursor, it influences the production of essential hormones critical for various physiological functions, including immune response regulation, inflammation control, and reproductive health.

Industrial Uses of 16 DPA

The industrial applications of 16 DPA span across pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and herbal medicine sectors. Its versatility as a precursor enables the efficient production of corticosteroids and sex hormones, addressing a wide range of health conditions and wellness needs. 

Pharmaceutical formulations incorporating 16 DPA serve as cornerstone therapies for managing inflammatory disorders, hormonal imbalances, and reproductive health issues.

Historical Background of 16 DPA

The discovery and development of 16 DPA trace back to pioneering research in steroid synthesis and hormone production. Its identification as a key intermediate marked a significant milestone in pharmaceutical science, unlocking new avenues for hormone therapy and drug development. Over the years, advancements in manufacturing processes and technology have enhanced the accessibility and utility of 16 DPA in pharmaceutical applications.

Exploring 16 DPA and its Pharmaceutical Use

Properties and Uses of 16 DPA

16 DPA exhibits several key properties that make it indispensable in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Its chemical structure enables it to serve as a versatile precursor in the synthesis of corticosteroids and sex hormones. Pharmaceutical formulations incorporating 16 DPA offer targeted therapeutic effects, addressing specific medical conditions with precision and efficacy.

The uses of 16 DPA in pharmaceutical applications extend to a wide range of therapeutic areas, including:

  • Anti-inflammatory Therapy: 16 DPA serves as a foundational ingredient in the production of corticosteroids used to manage inflammation and autoimmune disorders.
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy: Sex hormones synthesized from 16 DPA play a vital role in hormone replacement therapy, addressing hormonal imbalances and related health concerns.
  • Reproductive Health: Hormonal formulations derived from 16 DPA support reproductive health by regulating menstrual cycles, fertility, and other aspects of reproductive function.
  • Dermatological Treatments: Corticosteroid creams and ointments formulated with 16 DPA alleviate symptoms of various dermatological conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Detailed Uses and Mechanisms of Action

In pharmaceutical formulations, 16 DPA acts as a precursor, undergoing enzymatic conversion into biologically active hormones such as corticosteroids and sex hormones. These hormones exert their therapeutic effects through specific mechanisms of action, modulating cellular processes and biochemical pathways associated with inflammation, immune response, and hormonal regulation.

The mechanisms of action of 16 DPA-derived pharmaceuticals vary depending on the specific hormone synthesized and the target tissue or organ system. However, common mechanisms include:

  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Corticosteroids synthesized from 16 DPA exert potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and signaling pathways involved in the inflammatory response.
  • Immunomodulation: Corticosteroids modulate immune function by suppressing immune cell activation and cytokine production, thereby reducing immune-mediated inflammation and tissue damage.
  • Hormonal Regulation: Sex hormones synthesized from 16 DPA interact with hormone receptors in target tissues, regulating gene expression and cellular processes essential for reproductive health, sexual development, and secondary sexual characteristics.

Additional Properties and Applications

Beyond its pharmaceutical uses, 16 DPA exhibits additional properties that contribute to its versatility and applicability in various industries. These properties include:

  • Stability: 16 DPA demonstrates excellent stability under a wide range of environmental conditions, making it suitable for long-term storage and use in pharmaceutical formulations.
  • Compatibility: 16 DPA is compatible with a variety of excipients, solvents, and other ingredients commonly used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, facilitating the formulation of stable and bioavailable dosage forms.
  • Bioavailability: Pharmaceutical formulations containing 16 DPA are designed to optimize the bioavailability of active ingredients, ensuring consistent therapeutic effects and patient compliance.

In addition to pharmaceuticals, 16 DPA finds applications in nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, and herbal medicine formulations targeting various health conditions, including hormonal imbalances, menopausal symptoms, and reproductive disorders. Its broad spectrum of therapeutic effects and low incidence of adverse reactions make it a valuable ingredient in holistic healthcare and wellness products.

The Raw Material for 16 DPA, Diosgenin precursor: Natural Source and Extraction

Diosgenin: The Raw Material Overview

Diosgenin serves as the primary raw material for the synthesis of 16 DPA. It is a natural steroidal sapogenin found abundantly in various plant sources, particularly certain species of yams and fenugreek. Diosgenin’s chemical structure and abundance make it an ideal starting material for the industrial production of 16 DPA and other steroidal compounds.

  1. What is Diosgenin?: Diosgenin is a steroidal sapogenin, a type of steroid precursor, characterized by its complex chemical structure and molecular properties. It is classified as a bioactive compound due to its potential health benefits and pharmaceutical applications.
  2. Where is it Found?: Diosgenin is predominantly found in the rhizomes and tubers of Dioscorea species, commonly known as yams, native to regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum) also contain notable amounts of diosgenin.
  3. Botanical Name: Diosgenin is extracted from various Dioscorea species, including Dioscorea alata, Dioscorea bulbifera, and Dioscorea cayenensis. These plants belong to the Dioscoreaceae family and are cultivated or harvested for their tubers, which contain diosgenin-rich sapogenins.

Alternative Sources of Diosgenin Extraction

While Dioscorea species remain the primary source of diosgenin extraction, researchers and manufacturers explore alternative botanical sources and synthetic pathways to supplement diosgenin supply and optimize production processes.

  1. Wild Yam Extracts: Wild yam (Dioscorea) extracts, derived from the roots and rhizomes of indigenous yam species, offer an additional source of diosgenin for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. These extracts contain varying concentrations of diosgenin and other steroidal compounds.
  2. Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds contain diosgenin as one of their bioactive constituents. Extracts from fenugreek seeds serve as a supplementary source of diosgenin for pharmaceutical formulations and herbal preparations targeting hormonal balance and metabolic health.
  3. Synthetic Production: Synthetic methods for diosgenin production involve chemical synthesis from readily available precursors. While synthetic routes offer greater control over product purity and yield, they may require extensive optimization and validation to achieve cost-effectiveness and scalability.

HimPharm's Manufacturing Standards

HimPharm sets a benchmark in the pharmaceutical industry through its unwavering commitment to manufacturing excellence. With over four decades of experience, HimPharm stands as a pioneer in producing high-quality pharmaceutical intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). 

Let’s dive into the core principles and practices that define HimPharm’s manufacturing standards:

HimPharm’s Role in 16 DPA Production

HimPharm plays a pivotal role in the production of 16 DPA, ensuring stringent quality control measures and adherence to international regulatory standards throughout the manufacturing process. As a trusted manufacturer of pharmaceutical intermediates, HimPharm leverages state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies to deliver products of exceptional quality and purity.

Upholding International Quality Standards

HimPharm’s commitment to quality extends across every stage of the manufacturing process, from raw material procurement to final product formulation. The company adheres to rigorous quality assurance protocols, including  Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ISO standards, and pharmacopeial specifications. 

By maintaining strict quality control measures, HimPharm ensures the safety, efficacy, and consistency of its 16 DPA products, earning the trust and confidence of its global clientele.

HimPharm’s Commitment to Fulfilling Bulk Requirements for 16 DPA

Empowered by a robust manufacturing infrastructure, HimPharm excels in meeting bulk demands for 16 DPA with unparalleled efficiency and reliability. Whether catering to the needs of pharmaceutical giants or niche market segments, HimPharm’s scalable production capabilities enable it to accommodate diverse client requirements while upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity. 

With a focus on customer satisfaction, HimPharm remains dedicated to fulfilling bulk orders promptly and efficiently, fostering long-term partnerships based on mutual trust and transparency.

16 DPA Production Processes

Details of the Step-by-Step Manufacturing Process of 16 DPA

Step 1: Diosgenin Extraction from Natural Sources The journey begins with the extraction of Diosgenin, the natural precursor to 16 DPA, sourced from specific plant varieties, particularly yams. HimPharm ensures the selection of high-quality raw materials, maintaining the potency and purity of Diosgenin.

Step 2: Diosgenin Acetylation In this crucial step, Diosgenin undergoes acetylation, a chemical process that transforms it into 16 DPA. HimPharm employs advanced techniques and precision to carry out this acetylation process, ensuring optimal yield and purity.

Step 3: Purification of 16 DPA The acetylated product undergoes a purification process to remove impurities and unwanted by-products, further enhancing the quality and purity of “16 DPA.”

Step 4: Crystallization The purified compound is subjected to crystallization, resulting in the formation of high-quality 16 DPA crystals. This step is pivotal in achieving the desired physical characteristics of the final product.

Step 5: Quality Control Testing HimPharm implements rigorous quality control testing at various stages of the manufacturing process. This includes thorough analysis of the molecular structure, purity, and physical properties to meet and exceed international quality standards.

Step 6: Packaging and Distribution Upon successful completion of quality control testing, the finalized 16 DPA undergoes packaging and labeling procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The packaged product is then ready for distribution to pharmaceutical companies, healthcare institutions, and other bulk consumers worldwide.

Testing in 16 DPA Manufacturing

Ensuring Product Integrity

Quality control is the cornerstone of HimPharm’s manufacturing process for “16 DPA.” The company employs comprehensive testing procedures to guarantee product integrity and potency:

  • Identity Testing: Verification of the authenticity and botanical identity of Diosgenin, the key raw material, through macroscopic and microscopic examination.
  • Purity Analysis: Assessment of the purity of the acetylated compound through chemical analysis, ensuring minimal impurities and contaminants.
  • Potency Assay: Determination of the concentration of “16 DPA,” confirming therapeutic efficacy and consistency across batches.
  • Microbiological Testing: Screening for microbial contaminants to maintain product safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Stability Testing: Evaluation of the stability of the final 16 DPA product under various storage conditions to ensure shelf-life and product integrity over time.

Navigating Production Bottlenecks in 16 DPA Manufacturing

In the dynamic landscape of pharmaceutical manufacturing, production bottlenecks can present challenges. HimPharm employs proactive strategies to address potential bottlenecks and ensure seamless workflow:

  • Raw Material Sourcing: Ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of high-quality Diosgenin manufactured by HimPharm to sustain manufacturing operations.
  • Process Optimization: Streamlining manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency and throughput without compromising product quality.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex regulatory requirements and ensuring adherence to international quality standards and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  • Supply Chain Logistics: Managing logistics and distribution channels to minimize lead times and ensure timely delivery of finished 16 DPA products to customers.

HimPharm’s strategic planning, continuous process improvement, and investment in advanced manufacturing technologies enable the company to overcome production bottlenecks, ensuring seamless workflow and optimal resource utilization.

HimPharm’s Manufacturing Advantage

Overcoming Challenges with Expertise

HimPharm’s manufacturing advantage lies in its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and overcoming challenges. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and adhering to stringent quality standards, HimPharm stands poised to meet the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical industry. The company’s experienced workforce and state-of-the-art facilities position it as a reliable and forward-thinking partner for pharmaceutical intermediates and APIs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey through 16 DPA underscores its pivotal role as a pharmaceutical intermediate and hormone precursor, with HimPharm standing as a manufacturing partner showcasing its excellence in production and distribution. Let’s recap the key insights gleaned from our exploration:

Recap of Key Insights:

We’ve talked about 16 DPA and its great significance in the pharmaceutical landscape. From its origins as Diosgenin to its transformation into the critical intermediate 16 DPA, we’ve traversed the intricate pathways of synthesis and purification, guided by HimPharm’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.

Leveraging HimPharm’s Commitment to Quality:

HimPharm’s legacy of excellence spans over four decades, marked by a relentless pursuit of quality and adherence to international standards. With its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, and robust quality control measures, HimPharm emerges as a trusted partner for supply of 16 DPA to its clients, catering to the diverse needs of the healthcare industry.

Fulfilling Your Demand for Top Quality 16 DPA Requirements:

Whether addressing the bulk requirements of pharmaceutical giants or catering to niche market segments, HimPharm stands poised to fulfill the demand for top-quality 16 DPA. With its scalable production capabilities and unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, HimPharm offers a seamless pathway to access premium-grade pharmaceutical intermediates, driving innovation and progress in the healthcare sector.

Leveraging HimPharm’s Commitment to Quality and its Manufacturing Facility to Fulfill Your Demand for Top Quality 16 DPA Requirements:

HimPharm’s modern facility is equipped to scale manufacturing from small to large batches, enabling it to meet demand surges while offering flexibility in smaller lots to meet client requirements. 

Leveraging HimPharm’s expertise and manufacturing prowess, clients can embark on a journey of innovation and excellence, assured of top-quality 16 DPA products that meet and exceed industry standards.

In summary, the synthesis and production of 16 DPA epitomize the intersection of science, innovation, and quality, with HimPharm at the helm of this transformative journey. 

As the healthcare landscape evolves, HimPharm remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence, serving as a trusted ally for pharmaceutical companies, trading companies, healthcare institutions, and bulk consumers worldwide.

Write to or Call HimPharm to Request a Quote, COA, and MSDS.

for

16-Dehydropregnenolone Acetate and 16 DPA
Follow us around the web

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

©

2025

HimPharm.com. All Rights Reserved.