Nandrolone Decanoate vs Stanozolol
A side-by-side research comparison of Nandrolone Decanoate and Stanozolol across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Nandrolone Decanoate | Stanozolol |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca-Durabolin) | Stanozolol (Winstrol) |
| Category | Anabolic Steroids | Anabolic Steroids |
| Status | Prescription drug (controlled substance) | FDA-approved drug (controlled substance) |
| Mechanism | Nandrolone is testosterone lacking the 19-carbon methyl group, giving it high anabolic and lower androgenic activity. It binds androgen receptors and, unlike testosterone, converts to a weaker androgen (rather than DHT) in some tissues, reducing certain androgenic effects but not estrogen-related ones. | Stanozolol is a 17-alpha-alkylated DHT derivative that is orally active and resists aromatization. It has a relatively high anabolic-to-androgenic ratio and lowers sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), increasing free hormone levels. |
| Molecular weight | 428.6 Da | 328.5 Da |
| Half-life | ~6-12 days | ~9 hours (oral), ~24 hours (injectable) |
| Bioavailability | Intramuscular injection | Oral or intramuscular injection |
| Typical dose | Medical: ~50-100 mg every 1-4 weeks | Medical: variable for angioedema |
| Frequency | Weekly to monthly (medical) | Daily (oral) |
| Route | Intramuscular injection | Oral tablet or aqueous injection |
Nandrolone Decanoate reported benefits
- Lean muscle mass gains
- Reputed joint comfort
- Increased red blood cell production
- Treats certain anemias/wasting (medical)
- Improved nitrogen retention
Stanozolol reported benefits
- Lean, dry strength gains
- No water retention
- Lowers SHBG (more free hormone)
- Treats hereditary angioedema (medical)
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.