Nandrolone
Nandrolone is an injectable anabolic androgenic steroid historically used in veterinary medicine to promote weight gain, increase red blood cell production, and stimulate appetite in debilitated animals. **Clinical Pearl:** Its use in small animal practice has largely declined due to the availability of safer alternatives, potential for adverse effects, and strict regulatory controls regarding anabolic steroids.
Mechanism: Binds to **testosterone receptors** (androgen receptors) → stimulates **protein synthesis** and promotes tissue building (anabolism). It also stimulates the production of erythropoietin, leading to increased red blood cell mass.
Routes of administration
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Prostate cancer or hypertrophy
- Hepatic impairment
- Cardiac failure
Adverse effects
- Hepatotoxicity
- Virilization in females
- Prostatic enlargement in males
- Sodium and water retention
- Behavioral changes (aggression)
Drug interactions
- Corticosteroids · May increase the risk of edema and fluid retention · moderate
- Insulin · May decrease blood glucose levels, potentially requiring insulin dose adjustment · moderate
Monitoring
- Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP)
- Red blood cell count / PCV
- Weight and body condition score
- Renal function and electrolytes
Overdose
Overdose may result in exacerbated side effects such as severe fluid retention, hepatotoxicity, and pronounced virilization. Treatment is largely supportive and symptomatic.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.