What is Nandrolone phenylpropionate (Npp)?
Nandrolone phenylpropionate (NP) is a derivative of testosterone and a naturally occurring anabolic-androgenic agent belonging to the steroid group [1]. It is an anabolic steroid, meaning it is used to stimulate muscle growth and appetite.
What is Deca?
Deca or Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is an anabolic-androgenic steroid frequently used to enhance physical performance and augment muscle mass [2]. Athletes and bodybuilders often use it for its anabolic and lipolytic effects [3].
Uses
Uses of Nandrolone phenylpropionate
One of the primary uses of NP is to promote the replication and proliferation of fibroblasts, which are cells that produce collagen and other fibres. This can be particularly beneficial in healing injuries, as demonstrated in a study where NP significantly increased the validity and proliferative index of fibroblasts in rats [4].
In addition to its effects on fibroblasts, NP has been shown to up-regulate the density of androgen receptors in liver tissue, suggesting it may have a role in supporting liver function [5]. However, it's important to note that the same study found no significant effects on the density of androgen receptors in testis and ovary tissues, suggesting that NP's effects may be tissue-specific.
In muscle growth and performance, NP has been shown to increase body protein content and reduce body fat content in female rats [6]. It has also been shown to increase the proportion of fast oxidative glycolytic (FOG) fibres in the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle, which could improve muscle endurance [7].
However, it's important to note that while these studies provide valuable insights into the potential uses of NP, more research is needed to understand its effects and possible applications in humans fully.
Uses of Nandrolone decanoate (Deca)
One of the therapeutic uses of nandrolone decanoate is in treating osteoporosis. It acts as an inhibitor of bone resorption and temporarily increases bone formation, increasing bone mineral content. It also increases calcium balance and muscle mass, diminishes vertebral pain, and increases spine mobility [2].
In addition, nandrolone decanoate has been used to combat the hyper-catabolic state in patients with severe injury, infection, or burns. It has shown beneficial effects on weight, lean body mass, and quality of life in selected patients who have mild to moderate HIV wasting [8].
However, it's important to note that the use of nandrolone decanoate can have side effects and potential health risks, mainly when used in supraphysiological doses. These include hepatotoxic effects, disruption of spermatogenesis, and induction of oxidative stress and inflammation in specific tissues [9].
Side effects
Side effects of Nandrolone Phenylpropionate
Impact of fibroblasts:
One of the main side effects of nandrolone phenylpropionate is its impact on fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and other proteins that make up the connective tissue in the body. Research has shown that nandrolone phenylpropionate can promote the replication and proliferation of fibroblasts, which could lead to an overproduction of collagen and other proteins, causing issues such as fibrosis or scar tissue formation [4].
Decrease in body mass:
Another potential side effect of nandrolone phenylpropionate is weight loss. In a study conducted on Thoroughbred geldings undergoing training, it was found that the administration of nandrolone phenylpropionate resulted in a reduction of body weight and flank measurement [10].
Dose dependant side effects:
In addition, nandrolone phenylpropionate can have dose-dependent effects on body composition and muscle protein metabolism. For instance, daily injections of 1 mg/kg of nandrolone phenylpropionate for ten days caused a significant increase in weight gain, which was associated with an increase in body protein (9%) without affecting body fat. However, this effect on body weight was attenuated at higher doses, resulting in no change in body weight at 10 mg/kg. Despite this, body protein content was still increased (9%), whereas body fat content was significantly reduced (32%) [6].
Please note that these side effects are based on scientific studies and may not occur in all individuals. It's also important to remember that the use of anabolic steroids can have other potential health risks and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Side effects of Deca
Impact on the liver
One of the significant side effects of nandrolone decanoate is its impact on the liver. Studies have shown that it can lead to a substantial increase in the levels of serum alanine and aspartate transaminases, indicating liver damage [2]. Histological changes in the liver, such as dilatation and congestion in the blood vessels, inflammatory cellular infiltration with hepatic fibrosis, severe vacuolar cytoplasmic degeneration, and partial loss of mitochondrial cristae in the hepatocytes, have also been observed [2].
Effects on the kidney
Nandrolone decanoate can also affect renal function. Long-term administration of this steroid has been associated with a pronounced increase in serum urea and creatinine, indicating kidney damage [11]. Histopathological evaluation of kidneys has indicated hyperaemia, fibrosis, and focal inflammation [11].
Effects on the Reproductive System
In female rats, nandrolone decanoate has been shown to cause estral acyclicity, destruction of follicular units in the ovaries, and an absence of corpus luteum. It also promoted morphological alterations in the uterus, characterised by vacuolated epithelial and endometrial stromal fibrosis [12].
Cardiovascular Effects
Nandrolone decanoate can also affect the cardiovascular system. It has been associated with a significant increase in serum aldosterone and sodium ion concentrations, which could potentially be a severe risk factor for cardiovascular-related disorders [13].
Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress
High doses of nandrolone decanoate can cause oxidative stress and induce higher inflammatory signalling in the body [14].
It's important to note that many of these side effects are dose-dependent and can be reversed after drug withdrawal [2].
Are they safe to use?
As discussed, Nandrolone phenylpropionate and nandrolone decanoate are both anabolic-androgenic steroids that improve physical performance and muscle mass. However, their safety largely depends on the dosage and duration of use.
When used at supraphysiological doses, Nandrolone decanoate has been shown to cause hepatotoxic effects in adult rats, including significant increases in body weight gain and levels of serum alanine and aspartate transaminases. These effects were reversible after drug withdrawal [2].
However, high doses of nandrolone decanoate (deca) have also been found to impair male reproductive parameters, including a significant decrease in visceral fat, testosterone levels, and normal sperm parameters [9].
On the other hand, nandrolone phenylpropionate (npp) has been shown to promote the replication and proliferation of fibroblasts, which are cells that produce collagen and other fibres, in rats [4]. However, there is limited information on the safety of nandrolone phenylpropionate in humans.
In conclusion, while nandrolone phenylpropionate and nandrolone decanoate can have beneficial effects, they can also cause significant side effects, mainly when used at high doses. Therefore, they should be used with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.