Nandrolone (Deca Durabolin): Effect on Lab Tests

PARTICIPATION NEEDED!

Of those EM members that have taken nandrolone or are currently taking nandrolone alongside their TRT, we are conducting a small ExcelMale study to help determine the effect that nandrolone has on Total Testosterone, E2, Prolactin, SHBG, free T, and DHT while taking TRT.

Here is what is needed:

Simply post the following information...

(1) Pretest Labs (Labs taken before adding nandrolone to TRT):
TT
Free T
SHBG
E2
Prolactin
DHT
Blood Assay Methodology
RX Protocol

(2) Posttest Labs (Labs taken during nandrolone treatment):
TT
Free T
SHBG
E2
Prolactin
DHT
Blood Assay Methodology
RX Protocol

Let's move our knowledge forward!

@Gman86 @Vince @Nelson Vergel @Jason Sypolt @madman @madhacker @Cataceous

Nandrolone's Effects in Conjunction with Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Executive Summary

This forum thread synthesizes an analysis of the effects of nandrolone when used with Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT). The core findings indicate that nandrolone produces a distinct and predictable set of changes to blood work, physiological state, and quality of life.

Key takeaways include a significant alteration of hormonal panels, characterized by an increase in Free Testosterone and a decrease in Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG). Critically, the measurement of Total Testosterone is only accurate via a Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) assay, as older immunoassay methods will falsely register nandrolone as testosterone. The substance also increases hematocrit while lowering HDL ("good") cholesterol.
Physiologically, nandrolone is noted for a unique benefit: the reduction of joint pain. It also improves muscle pump and strength. Potential adverse effects include increased blood pressure and water retention in some individuals. Contrary to widespread belief, the source asserts that nandrolone has no effect on prolactin levels. It is also neutral regarding erectile dysfunction (ED) and does not cause drug-induced changes to liver enzymes.
Impact on Blood Work and Key Biomarkers
When used with TRT, nandrolone, classified as a 17-alpha methylated anabolic, has several measurable effects on blood work. Accurate interpretation of these results, particularly for testosterone, is contingent on using the correct laboratory assay.

Biomarker	Effect	Notes
Free Testosterone	Increases	-
Total Testosterone	No Change	This is only true when measured using an LC/MS assay.
SHBG	Decreases	Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin is lowered.
DHT	May or May Not Increase	The effect on Dihydrotestosterone is variable.
HDL Cholesterol	Decreases	High-Density Lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol, is lowered.
Hematocrit	Increases	-
Prolactin	Stays the Same	The source material challenges common beliefs, stating this level is unaffected.
Liver Enzymes	No Drug-Induced Change	While the drug itself does not alter liver enzymes, resistance exercise can.

Physiological and Quality of Life Effects
The administration of nandrolone alongside TRT induces several physical and experiential changes. These range from therapeutic benefits to potential side effects.
Beneficial Effects
• Reduced Joint Pain: This is highlighted as a unique effect of nandrolone.
• Improved Muscle Pump: An enhancement in the feeling of muscle fullness during exercise is reported.
• Increased Strength: Users experience an improvement in physical strength.
Potential Adverse Effects
• Increased Blood Pressure: Blood pressure may go up in some men.
• Increased Water Retention: The body may retain more water, which can worsen existing issues.
• Increased Appetite: An increase in appetite may occur.
Neutral Effects
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The source states there is no effect on ED.
Crucial Considerations for Laboratory Testing
The method used for testing testosterone levels is of paramount importance when nandrolone is present.
• Inaccurate Method (Immunoassay): Older immunoassay tests (e.g., ECLIA) will incorrectly detect nandrolone as testosterone, leading to a falsely elevated Total Testosterone reading.
• Accurate Method (LC/MS): A Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) assay will not cross-react with nandrolone, providing an accurate Total Testosterone measurement. The specific test mentioned is the 'testosterone-free-dialysis-and-total-ls-ms-ms'.
Associated Resources and Experts
The source material references the following resources for testing and information:
• Testing Provider: www.discountedlabs.com is cited as a source for the appropriate LC/MS testosterone test.
• Expert and Forum: Nelson Vergel, co-author of "Built to Survive: A Comprehensive Guide...", is mentioned in the context of reviewing bodybuilder blood work panels on the Excel Male Health Forum. These panels are noted to be available through DiscountedLabs.com and are designed to help minimize side effects and maximize the benefits of anabolics and testosterone.

 

By the way, @DS3, Thank you for the poll and interesting question!

I was prescribed nandrolone last year for my achy joints, it definitely increased my HCT and HGB, bummer I had to stop using because my HCT was at 57 and my hct was at 19, i did donate but within 4 weeks i was right back to beinh thick again, used a low dose, just 40mgs a week. I would love to use some again, sure helps woth qaulity of life....would it benefit me to lower the test dose from 100mg a week to 80 mg a week and add 40mg of nandrolone?

 

I was prescribed nandrolone last year for my achy joints, it definitely increased my HCT and HGB, bummer I had to stop using because my HCT was at 57 and my hct was at 19, i did donate but within 4 weeks i was right back to beinh thick again, used a low dose, just 40mgs a week. I would love to use some again, sure helps woth qaulity of life....would it benefit me to lower the test dose from 100mg a week to 80 mg a week and add 40mg of nandrolone?

What would benefit u way more is to be better hydrated. HGB and HCT has a ton to do with hydration. I’m using doses of both test and nandrolone much higher than u were, as well as using primo on top, and my HCT has been running around 48-50ish. I believe it’s cuz I’ve learned how to optimize hydration pretty good. Here’s a vid that made a huge difference for me in regards to hydration. Been drinking mineral water with added Celtic salt and liquid magnesium chloride added into each bottle ever since I watched it. Has made a huge difference

 

I was prescribed nandrolone last year for my achy joints, it definitely increased my HCT and HGB, bummer I had to stop using because my HCT was at 57 and my hct was at 19, i did donate but within 4 weeks i was right back to beinh thick again, used a low dose, just 40mgs a week. I would love to use some again, sure helps woth qaulity of life....would it benefit me to lower the test dose from 100mg a week to 80 mg a week and add 40mg of nandrolone?

I would say yes a lower dose would have a lower impact on HCT.