Products
Nandrolone is commercially available as a solution for injection (Deca-Durabolin). It has been approved in many countries since 1960.
Structure and properties
Nandrolone (C18H26O2, Mr = 274.4 g/mol) is present in the drug in the form of the long-acting prodrug nandrolone decanoate, a white crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water because of its lipophilicity. It is the ester of nandrolone with capric acid (decanoic acid). Nandrolone is equivalent to testosterone except for one methyl group and is therefore also known as 19-nortestosterone.
Effects
Nandrolone (ATC A14AB01) has anabolic properties and lower androgenic activity compared with testosterone. In osteoporosis, it increases bone mass.
Indications
For the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered every three weeks as a deep intramuscular injection.
Abuse
Nandrolone decanoate can be abused as a muscle-building steroid to enhance performance in sports and for bodybuilding. It is banned as a doping agent in and out of competition.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Hypercalcemia in malignant tumors
- Pregnancy, lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include:
- Virilization symptoms
- Disturbances of the lipid metabolism
- Increased libido
- High blood pressure
- Hoarseness, voice disorders
- Nausea
- Skin reactions
- Urinary retention
- Reactions at the injection site
