SARMS
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMS) have gained popularity in recent years as a supposedly safer alternative to traditional anabolic steroids. SARMS are a class of compounds that selectively bind to androgen receptors in the body. This leads to muscle growth, fat loss, and other effects similar to those of steroids. However, SARMS are believed to have fewer side effects and less potential for harm than steroids. Fewer side effects make them an attractive option for many fitness enthusiasts and athletes.
According to a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, SARMS have shown promise in increasing muscle mass and strength in both men and women, with fewer side effects than traditional steroids. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that SARMS may have potential medical applications in treating conditions such as muscle wasting and osteoporosis.
Despite their potential benefits, SARMS are not without risks. SARMS may have some benefits, but, like any other supplement, they also have some side effects. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has banned SARMS for use in competitive sports due to concerns about their potential health risks. This is on top of the performance-enhancing effects they regularly guard against.
Additionally, SARMS are not approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not legal for human consumption in many countries. In fact, you will almost never see a SARM listed as anything other than a ‘research chemical.’ If you see if it marketed as FDA approved or an approved medication as of this period in time (May, 2023), and you aren’t talking to your doctor, RUN!
Let’s explore what SARMS are, how they work, their potential benefits and dangers, and who may benefit from using them.
What are SARMS?
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMS) are a class of compounds that selectively bind to androgen receptors in the body. This leads to muscle growth, fat loss, and other effects similar to those of anabolic steroids. SARMS were developed in the 1990s as a potential treatment for conditions such as muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and hypogonadism. However, they have since gained popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts as a safer alternative to steroids.
Unlike traditional steroids, which bind to androgen receptors throughout the body, SARMS selectively target specific receptors in muscle and bone tissue. This selective binding is thought to reduce the potential for side effects such as acne, hair loss, and prostate enlargement, which are commonly associated with steroid use.
There are several different types of SARMS, each with its own unique chemical structure and effects on the body. Some of the most popular SARMS include:
Ostarine (MK-2866)
Ligandrol (LGD-4033)
Andarine (S-4)
Cardarine (GW-501516)
RAD140
These SARMS are often marketed as research chemicals, although they are not approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not legal for human consumption in many countries.
How do SARMS work?
SARMS work by selectively binding to androgen receptors in the body, which are primarily found in muscle and bone tissue. When SARMS bind to these receptors, they stimulate the production of proteins that are involved in muscle growth and repair. This leads to an increase in muscle mass and strength, as well as improvements in bone density and overall body composition.
Unlike traditional steroids, which can bind to androgen receptors throughout the body, SARMS are designed to be selective in their binding. This means that they target specific receptors in muscle and bone tissue, while avoiding other tissues such as the liver, skin, and prostate. This selective binding is thought to reduce the potential for side effects such as:
- acne
- hair loss
- and prostate enlargement
All which are commonly associated with steroid use.
SARMS also have a shorter half-life than traditional steroids, meaning that they are metabolized more quickly by the body. This can lead to fewer side effects and a lower risk of long-term damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.
So, do SARMS have any actual benefits and what are the known side effects?
Benefits of SARMS
SARMS have been studied for their potential to increase muscle mass and strength, improve bone density, and enhance athletic performance. Here are some of the potential benefits of SARMS:
1. Increased muscle mass and strength
Several studies have suggested that SARMS can increase muscle mass and strength in both men and women. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that a 12-week course of Ligandrol (LGD-4033) led to significant increases in lean body mass and leg press strength in healthy men and women.
2. Improved bone density
SARMS have also been studied for their potential to improve bone density, which could be beneficial for people with conditions such as osteoporosis. A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that a 12-month course of Ostarine (MK-2866) led to significant increases in bone mineral density in older adults with low bone mass.
3. Enhanced athletic performance
SARMS are sometimes used by athletes to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge. They seem to do well enough at increasing strength, muscle mass, and reducing fat mass. It’s not surprising people would jump at the opportunity. While SARMS are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and many sports organizations, some athletes still use them to improve their strength, endurance, and overall athletic ability.
4. Fewer side effects than steroids
One of the main benefits of SARMS is that they are believed to have fewer side effects and less potential for harm than traditional steroids. SARMS are designed to be selective in their binding to androgen receptors, which means that they target specific tissues in the body and avoid others. This can reduce the risk of side effects such as acne, hair loss, and prostate enlargement, which are commonly associated with steroid use.
It’s important to note that SARMS are still a relatively new area of research, and much is still unknown about their long-term effects on the body. More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of SARMS.
What are the potential dangers of SARMS?
While SARMS are believed to have fewer side effects than traditional steroids, they are not without risks. A lot is still unknown about how they work and their potential long-term effects on the body, but here are some of the potential dangers of SARMS:
1. Hormonal imbalances
SARMS can disrupt the body’s natural hormonal balance, which can lead to a range of side effects. For example, SARMS can suppress the body’s production of testosterone, which can lead to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual problems. SARMS can also increase the production of estrogen, which can cause gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) in men.
2. Liver damage
Some studies have suggested that SARMS can cause liver damage, although more research is needed to fully understand this risk. In one study, researchers found that a 90-day course of Ligandrol (LGD-4033) led to a significant increase in liver enzymes, which is a sign of liver damage.
3. Cardiovascular risks
SARMS may also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attack and stroke. Some studies have suggested that SARMS can raise levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and lower levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL), which can increase the risk of heart disease.
4. Other potential side effects
SARMS may also cause a range of other side effects, including acne, hair loss, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Because SARMS are still a relatively new area of research, a lot is still unknown about their potential long-term effects on the body. We will probably begin to see their long term side effects in the next few years. However, we also need more studies focused on them in order to find those side effects. So far, desire to fund and perform the research has been lacking.
It’s important to note that SARMS are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and many sports organizations. Their use can result in sanctions and disqualification from competition.
Who should consider using SARMS?
SARMS are not approved by the FDA for any medical use, and their use is not recommended for most people. However, some individuals may benefit from SARMS under the guidance of a healthcare professional with limited side effects. Here are some groups of people who may consider SARMS:
1. Older adults with muscle wasting
SARMS have been studied for their potential to increase muscle mass and strength in older adults with muscle wasting. A study published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle found that a 12-week course of Ligandrol (LGD-4033) led to significant increases in lean body mass and physical function in healthy elderly men and postmenopausal women. Obviously, when balanced against potential liver damage you would want a medical professional monitoring you here.
2. People with osteoporosis
SARMS have also been studied for their potential to improve bone density in people with osteoporosis. A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that a 12-month course of Ostarine (MK-2866) led to significant increases in bone mineral density in older adults with low bone mass.
3. Athletes seeking a competitive edge
I do not actually recommend this, but I understand it. While the use of SARMS is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and many sports organizations, some athletes still use them to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge. However, the use of SARMS can result in sanctions and disqualification from competition.
It’s important to note that SARMS are not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise regimen, and their use should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMS) are a class of experimental drugs that are being studied for their potential to increase muscle mass, improve bone density, and treat a range of medical conditions. While SARMS are believed to have fewer side effects than traditional steroids, they are not without risks. SARMS can disrupt the body’s natural hormonal balance, cause liver damage, increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, and cause a range of other side effects.
SARMS are not approved by the FDA for any medical use, and their use is not recommended for most people. However, some individuals may benefit from SARMS under the guidance of a healthcare professional, such as older adults with muscle wasting or people with osteoporosis.
It’s important to note that SARMS are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and many sports organizations. Their use can result in sanctions and disqualification from competition. SARMS are not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise regimen, and their use should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.
As SARMS are still a relatively new area of research, much is still unknown about their potential long-term effects on the body. If you are considering using SARMS, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Make sure to discuss your options with a healthcare professional. I hope this article helped clarify some of the SARMS benefits and side effects.
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