Final answer:
Testosterone is the drug prescribed to promote masculine characteristics like muscle mass and facial hair during puberty and is also used in masculinizing hormone therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The drug prescribed to promote masculine growth and development during puberty is testosterone. Testosterone, often utilized in feminizing or masculinizing hormone therapy, is essential for developing secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle mass, a deepening voice, and the growth of facial, axillary, and pubic hair. In particular, in transgender individuals seeking to affirm their gender identity, testosterone may be administered. It is also the hormone responsible for stimulating spermatogenesis, or the production of sperm.
This hormone is produced naturally by the testes under the influence of pituitary hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH), which the hypothalamus in the brain signals the pituitary gland to release. Additionally, the adrenal cortex secretes small amounts of a testosterone precursor, contributing to overall androgen levels.
While testosterone is crucial for puberty in cisgender males, it is also prescribed for conditions such as delayed puberty or certain hormonal issues. Aside from its clinical uses, it should be noted that anabolic steroids, synthetic variants of testosterone, can be misused for performance enhancement or altering physical appearance, which can have serious health risks.