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

AbstractThe 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.