NPP

Medical Uses

NPP has been used therapeutically for several conditions including:

• Breast cancer
• Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
• Osteoporosis
• Anemias

Mechanism of Action

Nandrolone functions as an AR agonist by forming a receptor complex that facilitates nuclear translocation and subsequent direct binding to specific nucleotide sequences within chromosomal DNA.

Comparison with Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca)

NPP was the first nandrolone ester introduced, followed by nandrolone decanoate (Deca-Durabolin) in 1962. The key differences are:

• Ester chain length: NPP has a shorter ester chain (phenylpropionate) compared to Deca’s longer decanoate ester
• Absorption time: NPP takes 3-5 days to be fully absorbed by the bloodstream, while Deca takes 1-2 weeks
• Onset of effects: NPP has a relatively fast onset compared to Deca
• Water retention: NPP typically causes less water retention and bloating than Deca

In recent times, NPP has been largely superseded by nandrolone decanoate, which is longer-acting and more convenient to use.

Side Effects

Adverse effects associated with nandrolone esters include manifestations of masculinization such as acne, increased hair growth, alterations in vocal characteristics, and reduced libido, arising from their capacity to inhibit endogenous testosterone biosynthesis.