A solution of 17β,19-dihydroxy-1α-methyl-5-androsten-3-one in tetrahydrofuran is added to a suspension of lithium aluminum hydride in tetrahydrofuran. After stirring overnight at room temperature an aqueous solution of sodium potassium tartrate is added until a readily filtered granular precipitate forms. This precipitate is removed by filtration and washed well with ether. The filtrate and ether washings are combined, washed with water, dried over magnesium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. Crystallization of the residue yields 1α-methyl-5-androstene-3β,17β,19-triol.
