Durobolic is not an extremely potent androgen. This is because it will reduce to a less active metabolite (dihydronandrolone) in many androgen target tissues, due to interaction with the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. This is of course the same enzyme that potentates the action of testosterone by transforming it to a more active form (dihydrotestosterone). Related side effects such as oily skin, acne, body/facial hair growth and aggravated male pattern hair loss likewise occur much less frequently with these drugs compared to testosterone and many other anabolic/androgenic steroids, making Durobolic a very favorable steroid for those concerned.

In general, Durobolic will produce the same side effects seen with Deca Durabolin, but they may be slightly less pronounced if the dosage used is lower (and/or more controlled, with less peaks) in comparison. Nandrolone preparations are among the most well tolerated steroids in manufacture, causing a very low incidence of unwanted side effects.

Durobolic has a relatively week androgenic effect. Virilisation of foetus may occur if used during pregnancy. Prolonged treatment with high doses in prepuberty in children may cause closure of epiphyses. Unlike 17-alpha Alkyl substituted steroids, is not associated increases risk of liver damage.