SARMs

Medically reviewed by Prof. Giorgi Pkhakadze, MD, MPH, PhD — GMJ Editorial Board

Scientific name: N/A (Class of synthetic compounds)
Category: Dangerous/banned
RDA: Not established
UL: Not established

What is SARMs?

Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are a class of synthetic compounds designed to mimic the effects of anabolic steroids while theoretically avoiding some of their side effects. Originally developed for medical purposes including treating muscle wasting diseases, osteoporosis, and hypogonadism, SARMs have gained popularity in bodybuilding and fitness communities despite lacking FDA approval for human consumption.

Unlike anabolic steroids, SARMs are designed to selectively target androgen receptors in specific tissues, particularly muscle and bone, while avoiding effects on other organs like the prostate, liver, and cardiovascular system. However, this selectivity has not been proven in human studies, and SARMs remain experimental compounds with significant safety concerns.

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Health benefits & uses

Limited evidence: Clinical research on SARMs is extremely limited and primarily consists of early-phase studies. Some potential therapeutic applications being investigated include:

• Muscle wasting conditions (cachexia, sarcopenia)
• Osteoporosis and bone density improvement
• Hormone replacement therapy alternatives
• Age-related muscle loss

However, no SARM has completed the full clinical trial process or received FDA approval for any medical condition. The evidence supporting their use for bodybuilding, performance enhancement, or general health purposes is largely anecdotal and not supported by rigorous scientific studies.

How it works

SARMs function by binding to androgen receptors in target tissues, particularly skeletal muscle and bone. Unlike testosterone and anabolic steroids that affect androgen receptors throughout the body, SARMs are designed to have tissue-selective effects. When bound to androgen receptors, they theoretically promote protein synthesis, muscle growth, and bone mineralization while avoiding unwanted effects on the prostate, liver, and other organs.

However, the actual selectivity of these compounds in humans remains unproven. Different SARMs have varying affinities for different tissues, but none have demonstrated the complete selectivity originally hoped for in their development.

Dosage

There are no established safe or effective dosages for SARMs, as they are not approved for human consumption. Underground and online sources often recommend dosages ranging from 5-30mg daily for various compounds, but these recommendations are not based on clinical evidence and may pose significant health risks.

Any consideration of SARM use should only occur under strict medical supervision as part of approved clinical trials. Self-administration of these experimental compounds is dangerous and illegal in many jurisdictions.

Food sources

SARMs do not occur naturally in food sources. They are entirely synthetic compounds manufactured in laboratories. Products claiming to contain “natural SARMs” are misleading, as these compounds do not exist in nature.

Some dietary supplements illegally contain SARMs as undisclosed ingredients, which poses serious safety and legal risks to consumers.

Safety & side effects

SARMs carry significant safety risks and potential side effects, many of which mirror those of anabolic steroids:

• Liver toxicity: Several cases of severe liver injury have been reported
• Cardiovascular effects: Potential impacts on cholesterol levels and heart health
• Hormonal disruption: Suppression of natural testosterone production
• Unknown long-term effects: Lack of long-term safety data
• Product contamination: Many products contain unlisted ingredients or incorrect dosages

The FDA has issued multiple warning letters to companies selling SARMs and has warned consumers about serious safety concerns, including liver toxicity and increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Interactions

Due to limited research, potential interactions between SARMs and medications or other supplements are poorly understood. Theoretical concerns include:

• Anticoagulants: Potential increased bleeding risk
• Diabetes medications: Possible effects on blood glucose
• Liver-metabolized drugs: Potential for altered drug metabolism
• Other performance-enhancing substances: Unpredictable combined effects

Who should be cautious

SARMs should be avoided by virtually everyone, but particular caution is warranted for:

• Individuals under 25 years of age
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with liver disease or dysfunction
• Those with cardiovascular conditions
• Individuals taking prescription medications
• Competitive athletes (SARMs are banned by WADA and most sports organizations)

Frequently asked questions

Are SARMs legal?

SARMs are not approved by the FDA for human consumption and cannot legally be sold as dietary supplements. They exist in a legal gray area and are often sold as “research chemicals” not intended for human use.

Are SARMs safer than anabolic steroids?

There is no scientific evidence that SARMs are safer than anabolic steroids. While they were designed to be more selective, human studies have not confirmed this theoretical advantage, and serious side effects have been reported.

Can SARMs be detected in drug tests?

Yes, SARMs can be detected in drug tests and are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and most sports organizations. Detection windows vary by compound but can extend several weeks after use.

Do SARMs require post-cycle therapy?

Many users report needing post-cycle therapy due to suppression of natural hormone production, similar to anabolic steroids. However, there are no established protocols for safely managing SARM-induced hormonal disruption.

Where can I buy legitimate SARMs for research?

SARMs should only be obtained through licensed research chemical suppliers for legitimate scientific research purposes. Products sold online for human consumption are unregulated and may contain dangerous contaminants or incorrect dosages.