Nandrolone: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects


Anabolic Steroids (Anabolic–androgenic steroids – AAS)


An overview of their use, risks, and what you need to know before starting therapy.



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1. What are Anabolic‑Androgenic Steroids?



Term Definition


Anabolic Promote cell growth & protein synthesis (e.g., muscle mass).


Androgenic Induce male sex characteristics (e.g., facial hair, deepening voice).


Key points





Synthetic derivatives of testosterone.


Commonly prescribed for conditions such as delayed puberty, hypogonadism, and certain anemias.


Widely abused in sports & bodybuilding to increase strength, endurance, and lean mass.







2. Medical Indications



Condition Typical Steroid Used Dosage Range


Delayed puberty Testosterone enanthate 50–100 mg IM every 4–6 weeks


Hypogonadism Testosterone cypionate 200–400 mg IM monthly


Anemia (non‑iron) DHEA 25–75 mg orally daily


> Note: Dosages above are approximate; individual therapy requires endocrinology supervision.



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3. Common Side Effects




Androgenic: Acne, hirsutism, male pattern baldness


Metabolic: Hyperlipidemia (↑LDL), insulin resistance


Cardiovascular: Elevated blood pressure, potential increased thrombosis risk


Reproductive: Suppressed LH/FSH → decreased spermatogenesis







4. Contraindications & Precautions



Condition Reason


History of breast or prostate cancer Potential tumor stimulation


Uncontrolled hypertension Further BP elevation


Known cardiovascular disease Added thrombotic risk


Thrombophilia (e.g., Factor V Leiden) Enhanced clotting propensity


Pregnancy / breastfeeding Hormonal effects on fetus/infant


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5. Monitoring Plan




Baseline labs: CBC, CMP, lipid panel, fasting glucose.


Blood pressure: Every visit; home BP monitoring recommended.


Semen analysis: Prior to initiation and after 3–6 months if fertility is a concern.


Adverse effects: Inquire about headaches, dizziness, mood changes, visual disturbances.







6. Patient Counseling



Topic Key Points


Hormonal Effects Exogenous testosterone can alter libido, erectile function; may impact sperm production.


Fertility Risks Long‑term therapy can suppress spermatogenesis; consider assisted reproductive techniques if needed.


Cardiovascular Monitoring Discuss potential risks and the importance of regular check‑ups.


Lifestyle Factors Emphasize healthy diet, exercise, limiting alcohol, smoking cessation to mitigate cardiovascular risk.


Follow‑Up Schedule 1–2 weeks after initiation for side‑effects; every 3–6 months thereafter.


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4. Summary & Practical Take‑Aways



Question Key Point


Which drug? Testosterone enanthate or cypionate – same dose, 250 mg IM bi‑weekly is typical.


How to start? Baseline labs + history → 250 mg IM every 2 weeks for 4–6 weeks; monitor testosterone levels and symptoms.


When to stop? Stop after 8–12 weeks if no benefit or side‑effects, or sooner with adverse events (e.g., worsening anemia, thrombosis).


How to decide? Symptom relief > lab changes; consider patient preference, cost, monitoring feasibility.


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Bottom line



Use a standard bi‑weekly IM injection of 250 mg testosterone enanthate/decanoate for 4–6 weeks as an initial trial.

If the patient feels better and testosterone levels are adequate, continue until 8–12 weeks; otherwise discontinue early if no benefit or side‑effects occur.

Monitor CBC, hematocrit, ferritin, and clinical signs throughout.



Feel free to let me know if you’d like a more detailed dosing schedule, monitoring plan, or patient education materials!