Nandrolone decanoate side effects on athletes’ bodies

Learn about the potential side effects of Nandrolone Decanoate on athletes’ bodies, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and hormonal imbalances.

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August 11, 2025

byKeith Gonzalez

Nandrolone decanoate side effects on athletes' bodies

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Nandrolone Decanoate Side Effects on Athletes’ Bodies

Nandrolone decanoate, also known as Deca Durabolin, is a synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) commonly used by athletes to enhance their performance and muscle mass. While it may have some benefits for athletes, it also comes with potential side effects that can have a significant impact on their bodies. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of nandrolone decanoate and its potential side effects on athletes’ bodies.

Pharmacokinetics of Nandrolone Decanoate

Nandrolone decanoate is a slow-acting AAS that is typically administered via intramuscular injection. It has a long half-life of approximately 6-12 days, which means it can stay in the body for an extended period. This is due to the esterification of nandrolone with decanoic acid, which slows down its release into the bloodstream. As a result, athletes may only need to take one injection per week to maintain stable blood levels of the drug.

After injection, nandrolone decanoate is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and then converted into its active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. DHT is a potent androgen that binds to androgen receptors in various tissues, including muscle tissue, to promote muscle growth and strength.

Pharmacodynamics of Nandrolone Decanoate

The primary pharmacodynamic effect of nandrolone decanoate is its anabolic activity, which means it promotes muscle growth and protein synthesis. It does this by increasing the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, and by stimulating the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth.

Nandrolone decanoate also has some androgenic effects, which means it can cause masculinizing effects such as increased body hair growth and deepening of the voice. However, these effects are relatively mild compared to other AAS, making it a popular choice among female athletes.

Potential Side Effects of Nandrolone Decanoate on Athletes’ Bodies

While nandrolone decanoate may have some benefits for athletes, it also comes with potential side effects that can have a significant impact on their bodies. These side effects can be classified into two categories: androgenic and estrogenic.

Androgenic Side Effects

As mentioned earlier, nandrolone decanoate has some androgenic effects, which can cause masculinizing effects in both male and female athletes. These effects may include increased body hair growth, deepening of the voice, and clitoral enlargement in females. In males, it can also lead to male pattern baldness and prostate enlargement.

Furthermore, nandrolone decanoate can also suppress the body’s natural production of testosterone, leading to a decrease in sperm production and testicular atrophy in males. This can have long-term consequences, including infertility and sexual dysfunction.

Estrogenic Side Effects

Nandrolone decanoate can also have estrogenic effects, which means it can cause an increase in estrogen levels in the body. This can lead to gynecomastia, or the development of breast tissue in males, and water retention, which can cause bloating and weight gain. In females, it can cause irregular menstrual cycles and breast tenderness.

Moreover, nandrolone decanoate can also suppress the body’s natural production of testosterone, leading to a decrease in sperm production and testicular atrophy in males. This can have long-term consequences, including infertility and sexual dysfunction.

Real-World Examples of Nandrolone Decanoate Side Effects

There have been several high-profile cases of athletes experiencing side effects from nandrolone decanoate use. One such example is the case of American sprinter Marion Jones, who tested positive for nandrolone in 2006 and was subsequently stripped of her Olympic medals and banned from the sport for two years.

In another case, former NFL player Shawne Merriman was suspended for four games in 2006 after testing positive for nandrolone. He claimed that he had unknowingly taken the substance in a supplement, highlighting the potential risks of using unregulated supplements.

Expert Opinion on Nandrolone Decanoate Side Effects

According to Dr. Harrison G. Pope Jr., a leading expert in the field of sports pharmacology, the use of nandrolone decanoate by athletes can have serious consequences on their bodies. In an interview with the New York Times, he stated, “Nandrolone is a very potent drug, and it can have significant side effects, particularly on the cardiovascular system.” He also emphasized the importance of educating athletes about the potential risks of using AAS and the need for stricter regulations in the sports industry.

Conclusion

Nandrolone decanoate may have some benefits for athletes, such as promoting muscle growth and strength. However, it also comes with potential side effects that can have a significant impact on their bodies. These side effects can range from mild to severe and can have long-term consequences. Therefore, it is crucial for athletes to be aware of the potential risks associated with nandrolone decanoate use and to use it responsibly under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

References

Johnson, L. C., O’Connor, J. A., & Friedl, K. E. (2021). Anabolic steroid use in athletes: facts, fiction, and public relations. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 35(1), 1-9.

Pope Jr, H. G., & Kanayama, G. (2012). Athletes and performance-enhancing drugs. In Performance-Enhancing Substances in Sport and Exercise (pp. 1-18). Human Kinetics.

Yesalis, C. E., & Bahrke, M. S. (2000). Anabolic-androgenic steroids: incidence of use and health implications. Exercise and sport sciences reviews, 28(2), 60-64.