Description

Nandrolone, also known as 19-nortestosterone, is an anabolic steroid that can be naturally produced in the human body during intense physical activity or pregnancy. However, its main metabolite, 19-norandrosterone, is found in urine in very low concentrations.

Structurally, nandrolone differs from testosterone due to the absence of a carbon atom in the 19th position, which gives it a progestin-like nature. This progestin origin results in significantly less androgenic effects compared to testosterone. However, the stabilization of progesterone receptors can cause unique side effects.

Another distinction is that unlike testosterone, which converts to the powerful androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) via the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, nandrolone is converted to a weak androgen called dihydronandrolone. This makes nandrolone a suitable choice for male athletes with prostate issues.

Nandrolone has a relatively low likelihood of side effects. Its low androgenic activity means that issues such as acne, baldness, and body hair growth are rarely encountered. However, as with any steroid, these side effects may occur when recommended doses are exceeded.

Nandrolone has approximately 6 times less estrogen conversion than testosterone without involving aromatase. While the liver has the highest conversion rate, the main site of conversion (adipose tissue) remains inaccessible. As a result, nandrolone has minimal estrogen-related side effects such as gynecomastia and fluid retention, which only occur at very high doses.

These factors contribute to nandrolone being one of the most popular anabolic steroids for muscle mass gain. Additionally, nandrolone is known for its minimal rollback phenomenon.

Effects

Pronounced muscle growth with minimal rollback phenomenon
Improved bone and ligament strength
Enhanced skin regeneration and collagen synthesis
Relief from joint pain by increasing synovial fluid production (joint lubrication)
Increased red blood cell mass, leading to improved oxygen transport, better cellular respiration, and increased endurance
Boosted immune system (recommended for patients with AIDS)
Conversion to estradiol without involving the aromatase enzyme
Improved intestinal absorption of amino acids and other nutrients

Side Effects

Nandrolone exhibits progestin activity by binding to approximately 20% of the introduced substance to progestin receptors, which can increase prolactin production and suppress gonadotropic hormone secretion. This can lead to a decrease in testosterone production, slight fat gain, and, in rare cases, gynecomastia.
In addition, possible side effects include increased blood pressure, abdominal pain, irritability, headaches, and depression.
Less common side effects may include headaches, back pain, and gynecomastia.

Dosage

For joint pain relief and bone strengthening in elderly patients, a dosage of 50-150 mg per week for 5-10 weeks is recommended.
For muscle mass gain, a dosage of 200-800 mg per week is recommended. The average dosage is 400 mg of nandrolone per week, combined with 500 mg of testosterone.

Profile

Half-life: 2-4 days
Frequency of administration: 2 times per week

Nandrolone phenylpropionate has a shorter half-life and is suitable for shorter mass-gaining cycles. The typical nandrolone cycle lasts 8-10 weeks, but some athletes may extend it up to six months by gradually increasing the dosage. Amateurs should avoid cycles longer than 8 weeks without additional drugs. For longer cycles, the use of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is recommended. If hCG was not used during a long cycle, it should be administered at the end of the cycle before post-cycle therapy (PCT) and not during PCT itself.

Nandrolone phenylpropionate injections are usually administered twice a week. The use of testosterone alongside nandrolone is recommended to counteract progestin effects and avoid the consequences of low testosterone (low libido, weak erection, depression).