🔬 Definition & Pharmacology

Nandrolone differs from testosterone because it lacks a methyl group in the C-19 position. As a result, it shows reduced conversion to DHT and provides a more anabolic effect with fewer androgenic side effects. When injected intramuscularly as decanoate ester, it forms a depot in the muscle. Consequently, the body slowly releases nandrolone into the bloodstream, maintaining stable levels for 1–3 weeks.

💊 Medical Use

Doctors prescribed nandrolone decanoate for medical purposes such as:

• Treatment of osteoporosis (especially in chronic rheumatic conditions).
• Management of certain anemias and muscle-wasting syndromes.
• Therapy for metastatic breast cancer in women.

However, its medical use has been reduced due to concerns about abuse and side effects.

🏋️‍♂️ Use in Bodybuilding

In bodybuilding, nandrolone decanoate (popularly known as Deca-Durabolin) is valued for muscle growth, joint relief, and increased recovery. Moreover, users often combine it with testosterone in bulking cycles. Typical doses range between 200–600 mg weekly. Nevertheless, this kind of use is not medically approved and carries significant risks.

⚠️ Side Effects

Reported side effects include:

• Water and salt retention.
• Suppressed natural testosterone production.
• Gynecomastia (due to progestin activity).
• In women: virilization, menstrual irregularities, and deepened voice.
• In men: reduced sperm production and erectile dysfunction.

🚫 Doping Relevance

Nandrolone decanoate is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Unlike oral steroids, depot injections remain detectable in urine tests for up to one year. Therefore, athletes rarely use nandrolone in competitive sports due to the high risk of positive doping results.

🧪 Detection & Metabolites

The main metabolite, Norandrosterone, is used to detect nandrolone abuse. Even small traces in urine are considered proof of doping. In fact, studies show concentrations above 2 ng/ml in men and women are classified as violations, except in specific medical conditions.

📚 References

• PubMed: Nandrolone detection and metabolism
• Wikipedia: Nandrolone
• WADA Prohibited List