Nandrolone Decanoate

Mechanism of Action

Nandrolone is a 19-nortestosterone derivative (lacks the methyl group at C19). It binds the androgen receptor with high affinity but exhibits reduced conversion to DHT via 5-alpha reductase, instead converting to dihydronandrolone (DHN) which has significantly lower androgenic activity. This results in a higher anabolic-to-androgenic ratio compared to testosterone. Nandrolone also demonstrates reduced aromatization to estrogen (approximately 20% of testosterone rate). Primary effects include enhanced collagen synthesis, increased bone mineral density, and nitrogen retention.

Evidence Level

Clinical Trial - Human

14 studies published