A lubricating oil including a lubricating oil base stock as a major component, and one or more lubricating oil additives having at least one protected active group, as a minor component. The one or more lubricating oil additives having at least one protected active group are converted into one or more lubricating oil additives having at least one unprotected active group in the lubricating oil in-service in an engine or other mechanical component. Compositions including one or more lubricating oil additives having at least one protected active group. A method for improving solubility of one or more lubricating oil additives in a lubricating oil. A method for improving oxidative stability of a lubricating oil and extending performance life of one or more lubricating oil additives. A method for improving friction control in an engine or other mechanical component lubricated with a lubricating oil.