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11/06/08
Easily obtainable compared to many compounds, Nandrolone (Deca-Durabolin, or “Deca” for this article’s discussion) is a highly effective anabolic steroid. Originally designed for patients with osteoporosis, its effects upon muscular tissue were quickly discovered by strength athletes. Since then, it’s been a staple in many bodybuilding steroid stacks. Let’s learn more about it!
Advantages of Deca
One of the reasons Deca is so popular with bodybuilders is that it is chemically deactivated in the prostate, scalp, and skin. This means that while muscle tissues absorb the compound and benefit from it, the cells in the prostate, scalp, and skin do not. Therefore prostate growth, baldness, and acne, the dreaded side effects of anabolic steroids, aren’t really a problem with Deca. Additionally, Deca better binds with muscle tissues than most anabolics, meaning that all things equal, it does equate to superior muscle gain.
Deca also has other advantages. Increased red blood cell production leads to greater endurance during weight training and cardiovascular sessions. The appetite is stimulated as well, allowing the bodybuilder to take in more food for growing. Finally, bone density is actually increased too, making Deca very popular with strength athletes such as powerlifters, in addition to bodybuilders. Bottom line – Deca makes you grow.
Disadvantages of Deca
While prostate, scalp, and skin cells are not affected by Deca, the nervous system certainly is. The main effect of this can be an inability to perform sexually. This only occurs when Deca is the sole steroid used. Hence we get the meaning of the fabled and dreaded “Deca Dick”. Adding testosterone to the stack is advisable, which allows for normal sexual function (and then some!) Additionally, there is some estrogen aromatization that does occur with Deca. Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) can help to defeat this, but some negative side effects (gynecomastia for example) can still occur. Be prepared, and have post-cycle therapy (PCT) of two AIs and one SERM prepared for when you cycle off.
Dosing
Deca is not effective in small, short cycles. It should be used for longer, 8 to 12 week cycles. Effective dosage is 400 mg per week. Always taper off the dose in the last two weeks before starting PCT.
Conclusion
Deca is effective, but not by itself. Use it as part of a well-planned stack, and remember to taper off when it’s time to take a break. Deca has long been a staple in bodybuilding steroid stacks due to its minimal side effects and very effective muscle-building properties. Use it wisely, and grow, grow, grow!
