Nandrolone
19-nortestosterone
Also known as: Laurabolin · Decadurabolin · Nandrolone decanoate · Nandrolone laurate · 19-nortestosterone
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Dosing by species
Dosing data for this drug is not yet available in the VetSheet formulary. Every other section below is complete. Consult the current product label before prescribing.
Overview
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 of action
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.
Safety & warnings
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)
Precautions
Warning: Use with caution in patients with cardiac or renal dysfunction due to the potential for sodium and fluid retention. Monitor liver enzymes during prolonged use. Anabolic steroids are controlled substances in many jurisdictions.
Drug interactions
May increase the risk of edema and fluid retention
May decrease blood glucose levels, potentially requiring insulin dose adjustment
Monitoring
- Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP)
- Red blood cell count / PCV
- Weight and body condition score
- Renal function and electrolytes
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Slowly absorbed from intramuscular injection sites due to the oil vehicle, providing a prolonged duration of action.
Distribution
Widely distributed; highly protein bound.
Metabolism
Hepatic metabolism.
Elimination
Excreted primarily in the urine.
Overdose
Overdose may result in exacerbated side effects such as severe fluid retention, hepatotoxicity, and pronounced virilization. Treatment is largely supportive and symptomatic.
Available products
Formulations
- Injectable: 25 mg/ml (in oil)
- Injectable: 50 mg/ml (in oil)
Veterinary
- Laurabolin 25 mg/ml injection
- Laurabolin 50 mg/ml injection
Human-labeled
- Deca-Durabolin (nandrolone decanoate)
Regulatory status
Controlled substance (anabolic steroid).
POM-V, POM.
POM-V. Subject to controlled drug regulations for anabolic steroids.
No regulatory data for: 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store at room temperature, protected from light. Do not freeze.
Client information
Nandrolone is an anabolic steroid used to help your pet gain weight and build muscle after severe illness or trauma.
- Administration: Usually given by injection at the veterinary clinic.
- Side Effects: Watch for signs of fluid retention (swelling), changes in behavior (such as increased aggression), or yellowing of the eyes/gums (jaundice).
- Warning: Do not use in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding.
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.