The effect of nandrolone decanoate administration on fatigue during a volume-overload stress in male mice

The effect of nandrolone decanoate on fatigue was examined during a volume-overload training stress in 3-month-old male C57Bl/6J mice (n = 24). Mice were randomized into two exercising groups and a control group (C). The exercising animals performed a 3-day per week resistance training program for 3 weeks. Exercising animals were further randomized into an androgen group (RTA) or a sham group (RTS). To exert a volume-overload, the frequency of training was increased to six consecutive days during week 4. RTA received a supraphysiological dose of nandrolone decanoate (38-mg·kg⁻¹) before and after the volume-overload week. RTS and C received sham injections. Four mice in RTS were determined to be fatigued, while no mice in RTA were fatigued. TNF-α expression in the plantaris was significantly lower for RTA compared to RTS. Significant elevations in oxidative stress were noted in RTS compared to C in the plantaris, but no differences were noted between RTA and C, suggesting a lower oxidative stress response from nandrolone decanoate administration. Glucocorticoid expression was significantly lower in the soleus of RTA compared to RTS, suggesting a lower catabolic response to the volume-overload stress. In conclusion, nandrolone decanoate intervention attenuated fatigue in animals during a volume-overload stress.