Nandrolone
Pronunciation: (nan-DRO-lone).
- Generic name
- Nandrolone
- Brand names
- Retabolil, Anabolin, Durabolin, Deca-Durabolin, Nandrobolin, Nandrosure
- Drug class
- Anabolic steroid
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: India
Australia: · Full directory
What Nandrolone is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Nandrolone works
Nandrolone is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that binds to androgen receptors in target tissues. It promotes protein synthesis, increases nitrogen retention, and stimulates erythropoiesis (red blood cell production). Its anabolic effects are stronger than its androgenic effects, making it useful for muscle and bone growth with relatively fewer masculinizing side effects compared to testosterone. (2)
What Nandrolone is used for
Anemia of renal insufficiency
This is the FDA-approved indication on the current US label (nandrolone decanoate injection): management of the anemia associated with kidney (renal) insufficiency, where it has been shown to increase hemoglobin and red cell mass. Patients who have had both kidneys removed (anephric) have been reported to respond less well to treatment. (2)
Osteoporosis, and muscle-wasting conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS-associated wasting, prolonged corticosteroid use)
Recorded in the clinician-authored database as additional uses; these are not itemized as FDA-approved indications on the current US nandrolone decanoate label reviewed for this page and should be regarded as off-label/historical uses that a prescriber would need to justify individually. (2)
Before taking Nandrolone
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with prostate or male breast cancer, known or suspected pregnancy, severe hepatic or renal impairment, and hypersensitivity to nandrolone. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Nandrolone
- General Instructions: Nandrolone is usually administered as an intramuscular injection by a healthcare professional. Do not self-inject unless properly trained.. Adult Dosing: Typical adult dose for anemia or osteoporosis: 50–100 mg intramuscularly every 3–4 weeks. Dosage may vary based on condition and response.. Pediatric Dosing: Not routinely recommended for children. Use only under specialist supervision if prescribed.. Administration: Administered deep into the muscle, usually in the gluteal region. Rotate injection sites to prevent tissue damage.. When To Seek Review: If you develop serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention promptly and let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop treatment.. Storage: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a scheduled injection, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule. do not take an extra dose to catch up.
Overdose
In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include severe swelling, jaundice, or sudden changes in mood or consciousness. There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
Acne
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
Fluid retention (edema)
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
Altered libido
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
In women: voice deepening, facial/body hair growth (hirsutism), menstrual irregularities, male-pattern hair loss — signs of virilization, which may not be reversible even after stopping
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
In men: breast enlargement (gynecomastia), testicular shrinkage and reduced sperm count, difficulty getting or keeping an erection
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
Mood or behavior changes: excitation, insomnia, or depression
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
In children: earlier-than-expected closure of bone growth plates
Incidence: Reported on the FDA label; specific frequency not established
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), unusual tiredness, dark urine, or right-upper-abdominal pain — possible signs of liver injury
Incidence: Seek medical attention promptly if this occurs
A painful or prolonged erection (priapism) lasting more than a few hours
Incidence: Seek medical attention promptly if this occurs
Signs of a possible heart or circulation problem, such as chest pain, swelling, or shortness of breath
Incidence: Seek medical attention promptly if this occurs
Serious warnings
FDA BOXED WARNING (this section was previously missing from this page) — serious
Symptoms: FDA BOXED WARNING (this section was previously missing from this page): Peliosis hepatis — a condition in which the liver, and sometimes the spleen, is replaced with blood-filled cysts — has been reported in patients receiving androgenic anabolic steroid therapy such as nandrolone. Liver cell tumors have also been reported; most are benign and androgen-dependent, but fatal malignant liver tumors have occurred. Blood lipid changes known to be associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis are also seen in patients treated with androgens and anabolic steroids. These risks require regular monitoring by the prescribing clinician.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
May cause liver toxicity and abnormal liver function tests — serious
Symptoms: May cause liver toxicity and abnormal liver function tests. Can worsen pre-existing heart, kidney, or liver disease. May cause masculinization in women and children. Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Risk of abuse and dependence with non-medical use.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with prostate or male breast cancer, known or suspected pregnancy, severe hepatic or renal impairment, and hypersensitivity to nandrolone. Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, epilepsy, diabetes, or a history of thromboembolic events.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Nandrolone may interact with anticoagulants (blood thinners), insulin or oral diabetes medications, corticosteroids, and other hormone therapies. Inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take to prevent harmful interactions. | (2) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
The FDA label places nandrolone in the strictest pregnancy category (Category X): it is contraindicated in pregnancy because of the risk of masculinization of a female fetus. Anyone who is or could become pregnant should not use nandrolone and should discuss this directly with their prescriber. (2)
Breastfeeding
The FDA label states it is not known whether anabolic steroids such as nandrolone pass into human breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse effects on a nursing infant, a decision should be made with the prescriber about whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue nandrolone. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable.. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children. The FDA label additionally warns that nandrolone can cause premature closure of bone growth plates in children, potentially limiting final adult height; if used at all, this requires specialist monitoring, including periodic bone-age X-rays. (2)
Renal_impairment
Renal: nandrolone's approved use is specifically for anemia caused by renal insufficiency, but the FDA label notes that patients who have had both kidneys surgically removed (anephric) respond less well to treatment; it is contraindicated in nephrosis or the nephrotic phase of nephritis. Hepatic: nandrolone carries an FDA boxed warning for serious liver risks (peliosis hepatis and liver tumors), and the clinician database records severe hepatic impairment as a contraindication — anyone with significant liver disease needs individualized assessment and monitoring by the prescribing clinician before use. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Renal: nandrolone's approved use is specifically for anemia caused by renal insufficiency, but the FDA label notes that patients who have had both kidneys surgically removed (anephric) respond less well to treatment; it is contraindicated in nephrosis or the nephrotic phase of nephritis. Hepatic: nandrolone carries an FDA boxed warning for serious liver risks (peliosis hepatis and liver tumors), and the clinician database records severe hepatic impairment as a contraindication — anyone with significant liver disease needs individualized assessment and monitoring by the prescribing clinician before use. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Store nandrolone decanoate injection at 20-25°C (68-77°F), protected from light, and keep it in its original carton until the contents are used.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Anemia of renal insufficiency
Dose summary: The typical adult dosage for nandrolone is 50 to 100 mg administered intramuscularly every 3 to 4 weeks.
Renal context: Nandrolone decanoate's approved use is specifically for anemia of renal insufficiency, so it is used in the context of impaired renal function; however, the FDA label notes that anephric patients (both kidneys surgically removed) have been reported to respond less well to treatment, and it is contraindicated in nephrosis or the nephrotic phase of nephritis. (2)
Hepatic guidance
Nandrolone carries an FDA boxed warning for serious hepatic risks: peliosis hepatis (blood-filled cysts replacing liver, and sometimes spleen, tissue) and liver cell tumors (usually benign but rarely fatal malignant tumors have been reported). No graded numeric dose-adjustment schedule for hepatic impairment is given in the label; the clinician database records severe hepatic impairment as a contraindication. Liver function should be monitored periodically during treatment, and the prescriber should assess any patient with pre-existing liver disease individually before use.
Frequently asked questions
What conditions does nandrolone treat?
Nandrolone is used to treat anemia due to chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis, and muscle wasting conditions. It is not approved for bodybuilding or athletic enhancement.
How is nandrolone administered?
It is given as a deep intramuscular injection, usually by a healthcare professional. Do not self-inject unless you have been trained.
Can women use nandrolone?
Nandrolone may be prescribed to women for certain medical conditions, but it carries a risk of masculinization (deepening voice, increased body hair). It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Is nandrolone safe for children?
Nandrolone is not routinely recommended for children due to the risk of premature closure of bone growth plates and hormonal side effects. Use only under specialist supervision.
What are the signs of serious side effects?
Serious side effects include jaundice, severe swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath, and allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Can I drink alcohol while using nandrolone?
It is best to avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of liver problems while using nandrolone.
Does nandrolone interact with other medications?
Yes, it can interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, corticosteroids, and other hormone therapies. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.
What happens if I take too much Nandrolone?
Taking too much Nandrolone can lead to exaggerated side effects, including severe androgenic effects, fluid retention, and potential liver damage. In cases of suspected overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may vary, and prompt medical evaluation is necessary for appropriate management and to prevent serious health complications.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Nandrolone?
It is generally advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Nandrolone. Both Nandrolone and alcohol can place a strain on the liver, and combining them may increase the risk of liver damage or exacerbate existing liver conditions. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the drug's effectiveness and potentially worsen certain side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Nandrolone safe during pregnancy?
Nandrolone is generally contraindicated during pregnancy. It falls under a pregnancy category that indicates potential risks to the fetus, including virilization in female fetuses. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant consult their healthcare provider immediately if they are taking or considering Nandrolone. Your doctor can discuss the risks and alternative treatments.
What is the mechanism of action of Nandrolone?
Nandrolone is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that binds to androgen receptors in target tissues. It promotes protein synthesis, increases nitrogen retention, and stimulates erythropoiesis (red blood cell production). Its anabolic effects are stronger than its androgenic effects, making it useful for muscle and bone growth with relatively fewer masculinizing side effects compared to testosterone. (2)
What is the generic name of Nandrolone?
The generic name is Nandrolone. It is sold under brand names including Retabolil, Anabolin, Durabolin, Deca-Durabolin, Nandrobolin, Nandrosure.
What class of drug is Nandrolone?
Nandrolone is classed as: Anabolic steroid.
References
- Nandrolone - MedGuideGlobal Internal Medicine RecordMedGuideGlobal · Global · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
- Nandrolone Decanoate Injection (Watson Laboratories, Inc.) full prescribing informationU.S. Food and Drug Administration · United States · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 2
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Nandrolone names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
India
- Alkems Nandrolone50 mg/1 mL · Alkem Laboratories Ltd
- Deca Durabolinnot captured in listing extract · not stated in listing extract