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Nandrolone

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medicationWhy has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Nandrolone is an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are synthetic forms of the male hormone testosterone. They stimulate appetite, increase muscle mass, increase skeletal mass, and increase production of red blood cells. Nandrolone is used as an additional treatment in chronic kidney problems and also some types of anaemia. It is also used to help animals that are convalescing or debilitated.

How do I give this medication?

- Your veterinarian will administer this medicine to your pet by injection.

- Your veterinarian will advise you as to when your pet needs a repeat injection.

Potential side effects

- Although a drug has potential side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. Tell your veterinarian if you think your pet may be pregnant.

- Your veterinarian may need to monitor your pet's blood to check kidney and liver function.

- The following side effects have been reported - very odorous urine in cats, and increased virilism.

- Contact your veterinarian if these side effects persist and are troublesome.

- Other side effects may occur. If the pet experiences anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible drug interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.

- Quite often your veterinarianmay prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarianmay vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.

- Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. The risk of serious drug interactions is low and should be kept in perspective.

- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Aug 1, 2015.