SARMs – Effects, Benefits, Side Effects
SARMs are compounds often referred to as an alternative to steroids or a new generation of performance-enhancing drugs. While they’re gaining popularity and are often promoted as effective and relatively safe, their use requires caution due to limited research. What exactly are SARMs? Can SARMs support fat loss? Are they useful for muscle gain? And above all - are SARMs safe?
Table of contents
What are SARMs?
SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are non-steroidal compounds that bind to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue. They have anabolic properties and act as agonists or antagonists of the androgen receptor.
Discovered in the 1990s during the search for prostate cancer treatments, SARMs like andarine were initially investigated for medical purposes. Although early trials fell short of expectations, researchers later explored their potential to combat muscle wasting and support treatments for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis.
Due to their anabolic potential and initially perceived lower risk of side effects compared to steroids, SARMs quickly became popular among athletes – especially bodybuilders and strength-focused competitors.
Types of SARMs
One of the most widely used SARMs is ostarine (MK-2866), known for its relatively mild effects and frequent use during cutting phases. Another is ligandrol (LGD-4033), often used to increase lean muscle mass. Other SARMs include:
- Testolone (RAD-140)
- Ibutamoren (MK-677)
- Cardarine (GW-501516)
- Stenabolic (SR-90009)
- Andarine (S4)
- YK11
- S23
- ACP-105
SARMs - effects and benefits
SARMs demonstrate strong anabolic potential, though they remain under active scientific investigation. Current findings suggest they may enhance physical performance and promote lean muscle growth.
Research indicates SARMs may not only increase muscle mass but also support fat loss. Some studies show potential benefits such as:
- improved bone density
- lowered cholesterol levels
- enhanced endurance
Because they work selectively, SARMs may also help accelerate post-workout recovery and support testosterone levels and libido.
Who are SARMs for?
Despite the potential muscle-building and fat-reducing benefits, SARMs have been banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) since 2008 and are prohibited for professional athletes. Additionally, the U.S. FDA has not approved SARMs for medical use in treating any health conditions.
However, ongoing research – particularly involving ostarine – may one day lead to certain SARMs being recognized as safe, potentially allowing legal use under specific conditions.
SARMs - side effects and contraindications
Ligandrol and ostarine are among the best-studied SARMs, and short-term use has not shown serious side effects. Mild increases in blood pressure and testosterone suppression have been noted.
However, most SARMs haven’t undergone extensive clinical trials, and the long-term effects remain largely unknown. As such, their safety profile is still considered uncertain.
SARMs - safety concerns
SARMs have not been approved by the FDA, and many products sold online are unregulated. Analyses suggest that up to half of online products labeled as SARMs may not actually contain the claimed ingredients, and nearly 25% may include undisclosed, illegal substances that could pose serious health risks.
For this reason, individuals buying unverified SARMs online face significant danger, both in terms of side effects and legal implications.
The safest approach is to avoid such products altogether and rely on well-researched, legal supplements that can help support fitness goals without compromising health or safety.
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