All About Nandrolone

Nandrolone (Deca Durabolin) Studies in Humans

A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Nandrolone Decanoate in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Men with Mild to Moderate Weight Loss with Recombinant Human Growth Hormone as Active Reference Treatment . by Storer, Thomas W; Woodhouse, Linda J; Sattler, Fred; See more... The Journal...

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From the book "Anabolics 2010"

Deca-Durabolin® (Nandrolone Decanoate)​

Description​

Nandrolone decanoate is an injectable form of the anabolic steroid nandrolone. The decanoate ester provides a slow release of nandrolone from the site of injection, lasting for up to three weeks.

Nandrolone is very similar to testosterone in structure, although it lacks a carbon atom at the 19th position (hence its other name, 19-nortestosterone). Like testosterone, nandrolone exhibits relatively strong anabolic properties. Unlike testosterone, however, its tissue-building activity is accompanied by weak androgenic properties.

The mild properties of nandrolone decanoate have made it one of the most popular injectable steroids worldwide, highly favored by athletes for its ability to promote significant strength and lean muscle mass gains without strong androgenic or estrogenic side effects.

History​

Nandrolone decanoate was first described in 1960 and became a prescription medication in 1962. It was developed by the international pharmaceutical giant Organon and sold under the brand name Deca-Durabolin.

Early Uses​

When first introduced to the United States, nandrolone decanoate was prescribed for various ailments, including:

• Pre- and postoperative use for building lean mass
• Osteoporosis
• Advanced breast cancer
• Weight loss due to convalescence or disease
• Geriatric states (general weakness and frailty)
• Burns, severe trauma, and ulcers
• Adjunct therapy with certain forms of anemia
• Selective cases of growth and development retardation in children

Initially sold at 50 mg/ml, the drug was later updated to include 100 mg/ml and 200 mg/ml versions, reflecting the need for higher doses in specific medical situations.

Modern Medical Applications​

Today, the approved medical uses for nandrolone decanoate are more refined. In the United States, it is only FDA-approved for treating anemia, though it is often used off-label to preserve lean mass in HIV-positive patients and others suffering from wasting diseases.

Outside the U.S., Organon supports its use mainly for patients suffering from severe anemia, osteoporosis, and advanced breast cancer. The Organon Deca-Durabolin brand remains widely available today, now distributed by Merck/MSD.

How Supplied​

Nandrolone decanoate is widely available in human and veterinary drug markets. Composition and dosage may vary by country and manufacturer, but it is usually available in 25 mg/ml, 50 mg/ml, 100 mg/ml, or 200 mg/ml of steroid dissolved in oil.

Structural Characteristics​

Nandrolone decanoate is a modified form of nandrolone, where a carboxylic acid ester (decanoic acid) has been attached to the 17-beta hydroxyl group. This esterification process:

• Reduces the polarity of the steroid
• Slows absorption from the injection site
• Prolongs its therapeutic effect, allowing for less frequent injections

Pharmacokinetics​

• Onset: A sharp spike in nandrolone release occurs 24-48 hours after deep intramuscular injection.
• Duration: Levels steadily decline, returning to near baseline two weeks later.
• Half-life: 7-12 days.

Side Effects​

Estrogenic Side Effects​

Nandrolone has a low tendency for estrogen conversion, estimated to be only about 20% of that seen with testosterone. This is because, while the liver can convert nandrolone to estradiol, adipose tissue (a primary site of aromatization) does not.

Potential Side Effects​

• Water retention
• Body fat gain
• Gynecomastia (at high doses)

Management​

• Anti-estrogens: Clomiphene citrate or tamoxifen citrate may be necessary.
• Aromatase inhibitors: Arimidex® (anastrozole) can control estrogen more efficiently but is costly and may negatively affect blood lipids.
• Testosterone Combination: Using nandrolone with testosterone helps prevent gynecomastia.

Androgenic Side Effects​

Although nandrolone is classified as an anabolic steroid, androgenic side effects can still occur, especially at higher doses.

Potential Side Effects​

• Oily skin and acne
• Body/facial hair growth
• Aggravation of male pattern baldness
• Virilization in women (deepening of voice, menstrual irregularities, clitoral enlargement)

Management​

• Avoiding 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Drugs like finasteride or dutasteride increase androgenic side effects with nandrolone.
• Testosterone Use: Nandrolone must always be used with testosterone to prevent erectile dysfunction and low libido.

Hepatotoxicity​

Nandrolone is not c-17 alpha alkylated and is not known to have hepatotoxic effects in healthy individuals.

Cardiovascular Side Effects​

Anabolic steroids can negatively impact cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Risk Factors​

• Reduced HDL (good) cholesterol
• Increased LDL (bad) cholesterol
• Potential for high blood pressure

Prevention​

• Maintain cardiovascular exercise
• Reduce saturated fats and simple carbohydrates
• Supplement with fish oils (4 grams per day) and cholesterol-supporting formulas
• Strict blood pressure control is recommended; ARBs like losartan can help

Testosterone Suppression​

All anabolic steroids suppress natural testosterone production.

• 100 mg/week for 6 weeks: 57% reduction in serum testosterone
• 300 mg/week: 70% reduction

Without intervention, testosterone levels normalize within 2-6 months after stopping nandrolone.

Administration​

Dosage for Men​

• Medical Use: 50-100 mg every 3-4 weeks for 12 weeks
• Renal Anemia: 100-200 mg/week
• Performance Enhancement: 200-600 mg/week for 8-12 weeks

Dosage for Women​

• Medical Use: 50-100 mg every 3-4 weeks
• Performance Enhancement: 50 mg/week for 4-6 weeks
• Virilization Risk: If symptoms occur, stop use immediately

Availability​

Nandrolone decanoate has declined in prominence as a pharmaceutical product due to its limited medical applications.

• Unavailable in the U.S. since 2007
• Still marketed in other countries
• Black market counterfeits are common

Compounded Versions​

Nandrolone is currently available from compounding pharmacies like Empower Pharmacy.

Sources:

• The End of Nandrolone (www.thebody.com)
• Nandrolone Decanoate Injection

Further Reading:

Beyond testosterone: The use of nandrolone in male health and wellness

Nandrolone, joint pain and tendon healing

Novel Uses for the Anabolic Steroids Nandrolone and Oxandrolone in the Management of Male Health

Does anyone use Nandrolone (Deca Durabolin) ?

What is Nandrolone effect when combined with TRT?

Anabolic/Androgenic Hormone Prescribing Indications - Testosterone Wisdom

Nandrolone may improve tendon healing: In-vitro data

 

When to start nandrolone (Decadurabolin) when you have HIV?

Nandrolone (Deca), How bad does someone have to be to get this? Are Doctors that afraid of the DEA?

HIV, nandrolone and oxandrolone

Maintaining Fertility while using Deca (nandrolone)?

Nandrolone for CRPS/RSD

11 Month Old Nandrolone Prescription...Can I still fill it?

Nandrolone - What it's done for me

 

Clinical Application of Anabolic Steroids

Nandrolone

19-Nortestosterone (or nandrolone) is an anabolic steroid that was first synthesized in 1950 [33]. One of the main biochemical differences between nandrolone and testosterone is the substitution of a hydrogen atom in the C19 methyl group of testosterone, a change that imparts a favorable myotrophic/anabolic ratio of nearly 11:1 [16]. It is administered via an intramuscular injection and is metabolized in a similar manner to testosterone, with conversion into 3-norandrosterone by 5 alpha-reductase [34]. Unlike DHT, this metabolite has a weak binding affinity to the androgen receptor [16]. Through this fundamental difference between nandrolone and its metabolite, as well as the significant anabolic-androgenic dissociation of nandrolone, there have been renewed investigations into the use of nandrolone in clinical situations of chronic catabolic disorders such as anemia and muscle wasting secondary to hemodialysis, COPD, or HIV [35, 36, 37]. Due to the weak affinity for the androgen receptor after 5 alpha-reductase reduction, there is also a possibility that nandrolone may be used in the context of male hypogonadism, androgenic alopecia, and management of shoulder pain in men with rotator cuff injury [34]. It could also serve to augment testosterone's effects in improving body composition and possibly decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome in hypogonadal men [34]. Furthermore, given that prior research has noted that exercise enhances serum total testosterone levels in young men [38] and loss of muscle mass correlates with decreases in androgen levels [39], it is tempting to speculate that gains in muscle mass could be beneficial in warding off, and even treating, male hypogonadism.

Specifically, a Finnish study investigated the effects of heavy strength/power training on serum hormone levels in elderly men and women. A significant response in serum testosterone was noted after 24 weeks of resistance training in the elderly male population [40]. In another study by the same group, significant increases in testosterone were noted in a middle-aged and elderly population of men, but not women [41]. It is suggested that the low levels of serum testosterone might be a limiting factor in muscle hypertrophy and strength development in these older populations. Thus, it is tempting to speculate that short-term administration of nandrolone, coupled with a structured exercise program in the hypogonadal male, could lead to sustained improvements in both muscle mass and strength, thus resulting in long-term elevations in native testosterone levels. Further studies, however, are needed to investigate this phenomenon.

Caution should be taken with the use of any AAS in males of reproductive age desiring fertility. Though no formal studies on reproductive effects have been conducted with nandrolone, rat studies have shown impaired spermatogenesis [42]. A case report on a patient with 10 years of supra-physiological nandrolone use also demonstrated prolonged testicular dysfunction with severe oligospermia [43].

Source: Wu, C. & Kovac, J.R. Curr Urol Rep (2016) 17: 72.

 

 

 

Doctor Video: The Amazing Benefits Of Nandrolone for Pain and Recovery

 

Links above have been updated.

 

My latest interview discussing nandrolone

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The Clinical Use of Nandrolone in TRT: A Discussion with Nelson Vergel​

Introduction​

Welcome to another episode of Balance My Hormones! In this session, we have a special Q&A with Nelson Vergel, a well-respected figure in the TRT community and the author of multiple books on the subject. We're honored to have him here to discuss nandrolone’s clinical applications, particularly in conjunction with TRT.

Nandrolone and Its Place in Hormone Therapy​

Nandrolone holds a special place in my heart. When I started testosterone therapy, I didn’t do it alone—I started with nandrolone. In the bodybuilding world, it’s often referred to as "deca," short for Deca-Durabolin, though I prefer to use its proper name to shift the perception away from its association with bodybuilding and toward its legitimate clinical use.

The FDA approved nandrolone in the U.S. back in 1962 for treating anemia. Since then, it has been used off-label for various conditions, including HIV-related wasting. Off-label prescribing is entirely legal when there is supporting evidence, and over the years, we’ve gathered plenty of data on its benefits.

The Evolution of Nandrolone Use​

In Venezuela, where I grew up, nandrolone was commonly prescribed for elderly individuals suffering from frailty. However, in the U.S., the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of the 1990s severely restricted its use, making it difficult to access outside of specific medical conditions.

Recently, though, there has been a resurgence in interest, particularly for its potential to alleviate joint pain in men undergoing TRT. A study conducted at Baylor College of Medicine in 2019 found a significant reduction in joint pain among testosterone users who incorporated nandrolone into their regimen. This aligns with what the bodybuilding community has long known—nandrolone can improve joint health and even flexibility.

Nandrolone’s Role in the U.S. Medical System​

Nandrolone is now being prescribed legally in the U.S. through compounding pharmacies, even though it was largely phased out by pharmaceutical companies in favor of more expensive treatments. Many doctors are now prescribing it alongside testosterone, as using nandrolone alone can suppress natural testosterone production, potentially leading to erectile dysfunction and other side effects.

A common concern with nandrolone is the so-called "Deca dick" phenomenon, where individuals experience sexual dysfunction. However, this typically occurs when nandrolone is used without adequate testosterone support. Proper dosing is key.

The Benefits and Risks of Long-Term Nandrolone Use​

I’ve personally used nandrolone for over 20 years, and many HIV patients have taken it at even higher doses without significant cardiovascular issues. However, like all anabolic steroids, it can lower HDL (good cholesterol), increase blood pressure, and contribute to water retention. These risks highlight the importance of proper medical oversight and responsible dosing.

While nandrolone has clear benefits—such as muscle preservation, joint pain relief, and improved free testosterone levels—it’s not without drawbacks. At higher doses, it can negatively impact lipid profiles and cardiovascular health. Some men do well with 100mg per week, combined with regular blood donation to manage hematocrit levels, but individual tolerance varies.

Challenges in Access and Regulation​

The U.S. has a dual healthcare system, allowing for both insurance-covered and self-pay treatment options. The self-pay (cash-based) system has been a driving force behind much of the progress in hormone therapy. However, regulatory agencies like the FDA and DEA continue to impose restrictions, particularly on compounded medications.

In the UK and Europe, the situation is even more challenging. The NHS operates under strict guidelines that often limit access to innovative treatments, even when evidence supports their efficacy. Doctors may recognize the benefits of therapies like nandrolone, but they risk regulatory scrutiny if they prescribe outside of official guidelines. This creates a frustrating bottleneck for patient care.

The Need for Activism in Men’s Health​

One of my biggest concerns is the lack of activism in men’s health. During the HIV crisis, patients and advocates fought relentlessly for access to life-saving treatments. Men's health issues, including access to testosterone and related therapies, do not receive the same level of advocacy.

In the U.S., insurance companies frequently deny coverage for testosterone therapy unless levels fall below an arbitrary threshold. Meanwhile, compounding pharmacies offer more affordable alternatives, but they are under increasing pressure from regulators. Without these options, many men would struggle to access the care they need.

Future Prospects for Nandrolone in TRT​

I no longer use nandrolone personally due to its impact on my HDL levels and blood pressure, but I still see a place for it in TRT. Many men benefit from a low-dose regimen, such as 100mg of nandrolone weekly alongside testosterone. The key is individualized dosing and regular monitoring.

As research continues and awareness grows, I hope to see broader acceptance of nandrolone’s medical applications. Perhaps my next book will focus on the clinical use of nandrolone beyond HIV, as it has significant potential in other areas of medicine.

Conclusion​

Thank you for watching Balance My Hormones. If you found this discussion helpful, subscribe and hit the notification bell for more content on hormone optimization and men’s health. We'll be back with more insights soon!

 

Nandrolone and oxandrolone slide show: Clinical Uses of FDA-Approved Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS)

 

Nandrolone Increases Aldosterone Concentration and Serum Na+/K+ : Reasons for Bloating ?

This study used nandrolone in animals. I bet this could translate to humans that experience water retention on TRT or anabolic steroids. Increased aldosterone causes water and sodium retention and high blood pressure. Effect of Administration of Nandrolone Decanoate upon Aldosterone...

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nandrolone

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Does anyone use Nandrolone (Deca Durabolin) ?

My doc offered my nandrolone and aid it would help me build muscle. I read about it and it looks like it causes erectile dysfunction. When I asked him about it, he said that for some people, it can, but if it does, regular function comes back a few weeks after stopping. I read something...

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nandrolone decanoate

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Nandrolone (Deca Durabolin): Effect on Lab Tests

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Nandrolone ( Deca Durabolin) Improves Joint Pain in Hypogonadal Men Within 8 Weeks

Recently presented at a Urology conference Nov 2018 in Miami. Title: Nandrolone Decanoate Improves Joint Pain in Hypogonadal Men Within 8 Weeks: A Novel Prospective Pilot Study Authors: Alexander J. Tatem, Jonathan A. Beilan, Jason R. Kovac, Jabez Gondokusumo, Nannan Thirumavalavan, Larry I...

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What is Nandrolone effect when combined with TRT?

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Nandrolone - What it's done for me

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Deca (nandrolone) added to trt and wow!!

I recently had my TRT Dr approve a 10 week cycle of Deca to my 200 MG per week TRT. Took about 6 weeks to kick in but I feel really good. Sex drive off the hook and getting very strong and muscular. I do in the same Syringe 45mg T/35mg Deca e3d and take .25mg of Anastrozole 24 hrs after...

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The Amazing Benefits Of Nandrolone (Deca) for Pain and Recovery

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Please participate:

Nandrolone Survey: Please Participate

Forwarding for a friend who is collecting data for his Doctorate. My name is Todd Kielman. I am a Physician Assistant and Sexual Medicine Specialist with emphasis on Men's Health and Hormone Replacement. In collaboration with Nelson Vergel, we are conducting a study into the use and...

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Nandrolone decanoate safely combats catabolism in burned patients

ABSTRACT Introduction: The hyper-catabolic state is a devastating pathophysiological response to severe injury, infection, or burns. Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is a potent anabolic steroid that has many clinical indications, but has not been investigated in burn injuries yet. Patients and...

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Nandrolone, joint pain and tendon healing

Another Nandrolone Question. Hi Nelson. Any reports of reduced joint pain, and any benefits reported on relieving neuropathy in legs while on low dose Nandrolone. Thanks Bill Forum on Nutrition and Exercise: Another Nandrolone Question.

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Nandrolone: Use, Abuse and Side Effects

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Androgens play a significant role in the development of male reproductive organs. The clinical use of synthetic testosterone derivatives, such as nandrolone, is focused on maximizing the anabolic effects and minimizing the androgenic ones. Class II anabolic...

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Current manufacturer:

Nandrolone Decanoate Injection

Choose Empower Pharmacy for compounded Nandrolone Decanoate Injection. The leading accredited 503A and FDA-registered 503B compounding pharmacy.

www.empowerpharmacy.com

Nandrolone Decanoate / Testosterone Cypionate / Testosterone Enanthate Injection

Discover the benefits and uses of Nandrolone Decanoate, Testosterone Cypionate, and Testosterone Enanthate injections. Learn more about their effects and how they can help you.

www.empowerpharmacy.com