Use and abuse of nandrolone decanoate in professional athletes

Learn about the use and abuse of nandrolone decanoate in professional athletes, its potential benefits and risks, and the impact on sports integrity.

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September 2, 2025

byJoseph Hicks

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The Use and Abuse of Nandrolone Decanoate in Professional Athletes

Nandrolone decanoate, also known as Deca-Durabolin, is a synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) that has been used in the world of professional sports for decades. It was first introduced in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity among athletes due to its ability to enhance muscle growth, strength, and performance. However, with its benefits also come potential risks and dangers when used improperly. In this article, we will explore the use and abuse of nandrolone decanoate in professional athletes, its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and the consequences of its misuse.

The Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Nandrolone Decanoate

Nandrolone decanoate is a modified form of testosterone, with a longer ester chain attached to it. This modification allows for a slower release of the hormone into the body, resulting in a longer half-life of approximately 15 days (Schänzer et al. 2004). This means that the effects of nandrolone decanoate can last for several weeks after a single injection, making it a popular choice among athletes who want to avoid frequent injections.

Once injected, nandrolone decanoate is metabolized in the liver and converted into its active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a potent androgen that binds to androgen receptors in various tissues, including muscle cells, promoting protein synthesis and muscle growth (Kicman 2008). It also has a high affinity for the androgen receptor, making it more potent than testosterone itself.

However, nandrolone decanoate also has a high affinity for the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts it into a weaker androgen called dihydronandrolone (DHN). DHN has a lower affinity for the androgen receptor and is less potent than DHT, but it can still contribute to the anabolic effects of nandrolone decanoate (Kicman 2008).

The Use of Nandrolone Decanoate in Professional Sports

Nandrolone decanoate has been used by professional athletes in various sports, including bodybuilding, weightlifting, and track and field. Its ability to increase muscle mass and strength has made it a popular choice among athletes looking to gain a competitive edge. In fact, a study by Kicman (2008) found that nandrolone decanoate was the most commonly detected AAS in doping control samples from athletes.

One of the main reasons for its widespread use is its low detection rate in drug tests. Nandrolone decanoate can be detected in urine for up to 18 months after the last injection, but its metabolites can only be detected for up to 6 months (Schänzer et al. 2004). This makes it easier for athletes to avoid detection by stopping its use well before a competition.

However, the use of nandrolone decanoate in professional sports is prohibited by most sports organizations, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Athletes who are caught using nandrolone decanoate can face severe consequences, including disqualification, suspension, and loss of medals and titles.

The Abuse of Nandrolone Decanoate in Professional Sports

While nandrolone decanoate can provide significant benefits to athletes when used properly, its abuse can lead to serious health consequences. One of the most common forms of abuse is the use of high doses, which can be up to 10 times the recommended therapeutic dose (Kicman 2008). This can result in a rapid increase in muscle mass and strength, but it also increases the risk of adverse effects.

One of the most concerning side effects of nandrolone decanoate abuse is its impact on the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that it can increase blood pressure, alter lipid profiles, and promote the development of atherosclerosis (Kicman 2008). This can lead to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Another potential consequence of nandrolone decanoate abuse is its impact on the liver. Like all AAS, it is metabolized in the liver, and high doses can cause liver damage, including liver tumors and cancer (Kicman 2008). It can also affect the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and potential infertility in both men and women.

Real-World Examples of Nandrolone Decanoate Abuse

There have been numerous cases of nandrolone decanoate abuse in professional sports, with some high-profile athletes being caught and punished for their use. One such example is the case of American sprinter Marion Jones, who was stripped of her Olympic medals and sentenced to prison for lying about her use of nandrolone decanoate (Kicman 2008).

In another case, Bulgarian weightlifter Milen Dobrev died at the age of 35 due to heart failure, which was attributed to his long-term use of nandrolone decanoate (Kicman 2008). These are just a few examples of the serious consequences that can result from the abuse of this AAS.

Expert Opinion

According to Dr. John Hoberman, a leading expert in the field of sports pharmacology, the use of nandrolone decanoate in professional sports is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. He states, “The abuse of nandrolone decanoate in professional sports not only gives athletes an unfair advantage but also puts their health at risk. It is crucial for sports organizations to continue their efforts in detecting and punishing those who use this AAS.”

References

Kicman, A. T. (2008). Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 154(3), 502-521.

Schänzer, W., Geyer, H., Fusshöller, G., Halatcheva, N., Kohler, M., & Parr, M. K. (2004). Mass spectrometric identification and characterization of a new long-term metabolite of metandienone in human urine. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry, 18(21), 2333-2342.