From the Guidelines
Testosterone generally causes more blood viscosity than nandrolone. Both are anabolic steroids that can increase hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, but testosterone typically has a stronger effect on red blood cell production (erythropoiesis) [ 1 ]. This occurs because testosterone directly stimulates erythropoietin production in the kidneys, which then triggers red blood cell formation in bone marrow. Nandrolone, while still capable of increasing blood viscosity, has a reduced androgenic effect compared to testosterone, resulting in less stimulation of red blood cell production.
Some key points to consider:
- Testosterone administration has been shown to increase muscle mass, decrease fat mass, and improve muscle strength in men [ 1 ].
- The side effects of testosterone administration are of concern, including lipid abnormalities, polycythemia, and liver function abnormalities [ 1 ].
- Nandrolone decanoate has been studied in patients with COPD, with results showing an increase in lean mass and a modest increase in hematocrit [ 1 ].
- Regular blood work is essential to monitor hematocrit levels, with phlebotomy (blood donation) recommended if levels exceed 52-54% [ 1 ].
- Staying well-hydrated and avoiding other substances that increase blood viscosity can help manage this side effect.
- The dose and duration of use significantly impact the degree of increased blood viscosity for both compounds.
In terms of specific studies, Schols and colleagues administered nandrolone decanoate or placebo by injection every 2 weeks for 8 weeks to approximately 130 patients, with results showing a modest increase in hematocrit [ 1 ]. Ferreira and colleagues administered oral stanozolol or placebo daily for 27 weeks to 23 underweight patients with COPD, with no significant differences detected in hematocrit levels [ 1 ]. Creutzberg and colleagues administered nandrolone decanoate or placebo by IM injection every 2 weeks for 8 weeks to 63 men with COPD, with results showing an increase in fat-free mass and a modest increase in hematocrit [ 1 ].
From the Research
Blood Viscosity Comparison
- The comparison of blood viscosity between nandrolone and testosterone is a complex topic, and research on this specific aspect is limited.
- However, studies have shown that anabolic steroids, including nandrolone and testosterone, can have various effects on the body, including changes in blood cell production and cardiovascular function 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Nandrolone, in particular, has been shown to have a higher myotrophic:androgenic ratio compared to testosterone, which may result in improved effects on muscle mass 6.
- In terms of blood viscosity, it is known that anabolic steroids can increase red blood cell production, which can lead to increased blood viscosity 4.
- However, there is no direct comparison between nandrolone and testosterone in terms of their effects on blood viscosity.
- It is worth noting that both nandrolone and testosterone can have negative effects on cardiovascular health, including increased risk of blood clots and cardiovascular disease 2, 3.
Mechanisms of Action
- The mechanisms of action of nandrolone and testosterone are similar, as they are both anabolic steroids that promote protein synthesis and muscle growth 5.
- However, nandrolone has a higher affinity for androgen receptors, which may result in different effects on the body compared to testosterone 6.
- The effects of nandrolone and testosterone on blood viscosity are likely to be related to their effects on red blood cell production and cardiovascular function.