SARMS 101
Which Product is Right For You?
SARMS 101
Which Product is Right For You?
GW-501516 (Cardarine) is a PPARd receptor agonist developed in the 1990s to prevent and cure tumor formation. Further research proved this chemical could also stop metabolic disorders such diabetes and obesity.
Research subjects have discovered that this chemical will burn excess fatty tissue, enhance recovery, and increase endurance. GW-501516 is also known to increase good cholesterol by an average of 79% while decreasing bad cholesterol. GW-501516 is great for pretty much everything! Incredible endurance benefits from it are probably the most prominent reason to use this product. GW-501516 improves run times and weight lifting sessions will be extended further. Also, fat loss is at the top of the list of reasons why GW-501516 is a highly sought out product. Striations and veins get more noticeable and your journey to fat loss becomes a lot easier, without the catabolic effects that most fat burners and drugs can have while trimming down. Fat loss from GW-501516 is a result of increased glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. Essentially, you’re making better use of the nutrients you consume every day and decreasing the amount of carbohydrates or fat stored as adipose tissue. As a result, GW-501516 is not only fat burning and anti-catabolic, but it’s also a little bit anabolic as well. GW-501516 can be stacked with pretty much anything, and it will enhance the results of the cycle.
How it works: GW-501516 promotes glucose uptake. It burns fat by stimulating fatty acid oxidation.
Side effects: GW-501516 is virtually side effect free. Although some studies have appeared to show a small increase in some cancer rate in mice (not humans), they were done for a very long time with outrageous doses nowhere near recommended human doses. In some cases giving up to 1000 times the recommended dose. Obviously, if you take 1000 pills of anything, it’s dangerous. Imagine, if you took 1000 pills of Aspirin! You’d be dead after the first 50. So, always take things in perspective. Ultimately there is not enough evidence of this to be conclusive. Other studies have shown no significant connection to cancer at all, and further studies even showed GW-501516 to decrease tumor size. Meaning, it helped cure some cancers.
LGD-4033 (Ligandrol) is in a group of androgen receptor (AR) ligands that are tissue selective. This research chemical was created to cure muscle wasting, age-related muscle loss and cancer. LGD-4033 has a significant effect on building lean muscle mass, strengthening bone and muscle, and it has potential to help with healing. This is the most anabolic of modulators, but, just like its cousins S-4 (Andarine) and MK-2866 (Ostarine), it binds very strongly to the androgen receptor. It favors the receptors in your muscle and bone, causing anabolic and anti-catabolic effects. In addition, it has a significant effect in preventing bone degeneration, and it has even proven to strengthen bones with minimized risk of typical androgenic problems like prostate enlargement, hair loss, etc.
LGD-4033 is known to cause the healing benefits of testosterone. Reports of increased endurance is common and when stacked with GW-501516 (Cardarine), the level it increases will blow your socks off. Actually, LGD-4033 can be stacked quite well with any of the popular research chemicals like MK-2866 (Ostarine), S-4 (Andarine) and GW-501516 (Cardarine). In fact, it creates the perfect anabolic storm of lean muscle and fat loss when stacked with all 3, and it can be stacked safely, with minimal suppression.
How it works: LGD-4033 works by tying androgen receptors selectively. It shows anabolic activity in the bones and muscles instead of negatively affecting the prostate and sebaceous glands. Upon further research, test subjects discovered that LGD-4033 was harmless and easy to stomach with a dose not beyond 22 mg a day.
Side effects: LGD-4033 has virtually no side effects. With no significant activity in the prostate, and no liver toxicity whatsoever. This product does cause dose related hormone suppression. A slight decrease in total and free testosterone, as well as SHBG has been displayed with LGD-4033, but neither LH nor FSH showed any decrease at all. The fact that LH and FSH remain un-suppressed during administration of LGD-4033 should make the natural hormone recovery process quite easy. You don’t need to use an aromatase inhibitor like aromasin with LGD-4033 since it does not aromatize into estrogen.
MK-2866 (Ostarine) is a research chemical created to avoid and treat muscle wasting. Research has also found this chemical to be useful for building lean mass, increase strength, and as a hormone replacement therapy.
MK-2866 binds to your muscles receptors and causes impressive muscle growth without AAS side effects. These gains are absolutely “keepable” and maintainable after use is discontinued, as long as workouts stay consistent and diet remains on track. MK-2866 helps nutrient partitioning to a high degree. This effect has helped many achieve the supposed “impossible” feat of losing fat while gaining muscle at the same time. While MK-2866 is significantly anabolic (about half as anabolic as testosterone), it’s even better at being anti-catabolic, making it ideal for bridges in between cycles. In addition, it’s great when you want to jump start your Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Testes-Axis (HPTA) and keep those hard earned gains, while maybe even adding a few pounds in between cycles.
The versatility and safety of MK-2866 makes it a godsend to fitness enthusiasts everywhere. Whether they are looking for a virtually side effect free alternative to steroids in between cycles, a safe non-toxic advantage in healing injuries, or just a significant edge when cutting down stubborn fat stores.
How it works: MK-2866 binds to the androgen receptor (AR). This stimulation increases protein synthesis and builds muscle. MK-2866 causes muscle growth similar to AAS’s but it won’t produce the negative side effects.
Side effects: MK-2866 is not suppressive to the HPTA in a short 4 week cycle of 25mg a day, but can become suppressive, to a small degree, if use is continued too long or higher doses are used. MK-2866 does not aromatize into estrogen, so no on-cycle ancillaries are needed. In addition, it is not hepatoxic, meaning it doesn’t hurt your liver when you use it. Thus, it allows for longer possible cycle durations than the typical oral AAS cycle. Though MK-2866 is minimally suppressive, it is suggested that a “mini-PCT” is conducted after an 8-12 week cycle for safe measure. Everybody is different, some may encounter slightly more suppression than the majority as there are always exceptions, but, in general, only a mini-PCT is needed. Many people may experience gyno when use. This is not common, particularly in lower doses. Blood pressure is not affected by use. Many people experience problems with acne, headaches, nausea, and baldness. These are common with large doses. To reduce gyno from happening, you can take a post cycle treatment supplement.
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a growth hormone secretagogue, which mimics the growth hormone. It also increases insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Researchers have found MK-677 to help build muscle, reduce muscle wasting, increase bone density, and reverse aging.
Growth hormone pulse intensity can be increased through 4 possible mechanisms:
Mk-677 was found to work through all 4 of these mechanisms. After ingestion, Growth Hormone (GH) was shown to increase dose dependently, at doses starting at 5 milligrams (mgs) a day.
How it works: MK-677 increases growth hormone levels and binding to one of the ghrelin receptors (GHSR) in the brain. Activated GHSR stimulates growth hormone release. GHSR is found in brain regions that control appetite, pleasure, mood, biological rhythms, memory, and cognition. As a result, researcher have found that MK-677 can also affect these functions.
Side effects: Some of the usual side effects that go with elevated GH levels such as numb hands, some lethargy, as well as slight increased appetite have been reported with the use of Mk-677. Interestingly, during prolonged administration both IGF-1 and GH were increased with no increase in cortisol.
RAD-140 (Testolone) is a chemical developed for the treatment of conditions such as muscle wasting and breast cancer. Although AAS are used for the same purposes, RAD-140 lacks many of the undesirable side-effects associated with AAS.
Just like the rest of the modulators, RAD-140 has a selective mode of action, which allows it to have anabolic effects without the side effects usually seen with AAS. These side effects include prostate enlargement, suppression of natural testosterone production, head hair loss, and many others. This means that RAD-140 interacts almost exclusively with the androgenic receptors in the muscle tissues and bones, but it does not activate these receptors in other parts of the body. As a result, we get pronounced anabolic effects, but without side effects and suppression, which opens new possibilities for medical applications of this compound instead of testosterone. What’s more, due to the selective mode of action, RAD-140 is safe for females too, since it will not cause virilization, or clitoris enlargement.
How it works: RAD-140 mimics the effects of testosterone by making the hormonal receptors in the tissue act the same way as if the research subject were taking AAS or prohormones.
Side effects: As with most modulators, studies show that RAD-140 does not appear to have any side effects common to AAS compounds. Unlike testosterone, RAD-140 does not cause prostate enlargement or testicular shrinkage. However, as it is still in early developmental stages, this does not mean that there are no long-term effects. Some user-reported side effects include headaches or insomnia that disappear with correct dosage.
S-4 (Andarine) is the most investigated and researched modulator so far. It is also the most versatile ever created. Like most modulators, the primary purpose of S-4 aimed to develop an alternative treatment to age-related muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and similar symptoms of hypogonadism, or end-stage renal disease. S-4 binds incredibly well to the androgen receptors of bone and muscle. While it doesn’t tend to impress in terms of building pounds upon pounds of muscle, it has amazing effects on fat loss. Why? S-4 is the least anabolic, yet most androgenic modulator. When androgenic hormones or modulators attach to the androgen receptors in your adipose tissue or fat (yes we have androgen receptors in our fat too) they trigger fat oxidation.
This item is selective and shows no noticeable prostate activity. S-4 proved to be poor at building muscle tissue at lower doses, but it did, in fact, build lean hard muscle tissue at higher doses. S-4 is especially outstanding at strengthening, preserving and even building bone mass.
How it works: S-4 attaches to the AR. When the AR interacts with testosterone, S-4 forces it to produce genes that exclusively benefit muscle and bone growth. S-4 can trigger muscle development in the same way as AAS, without the same unwanted side effects.
Side effects: S-4 has shown to be only very slightly suppressive at high doses, though not as much as LGD-4033 (Ligandrol), but more so than MK-2866 (Ostarine). Its use should be followed immediately by a post cycle therapy regimen. Though a modified mini-PCT should be fine for recovery. Use of supplements such as HC Generate on cycle is more than enough to combat the slight suppression caused by S-4.
S-4 does not aromatize into estrogen, so no inhibitor will be needed on cycle. Commonly, S-4 is a bit notorious for its side effect of binding to the ocular receptors in the eyes causing a faint yellow tint and sometimes difficulty adjusting to darkness. This does not happen to all who have experimented with this product, it is totally temporary and goes away after use is discontinued.
S23 is an orally bioavailable, non steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has been proven to increase lean muscle and bone tissue while being tissue selective (unlike traditional steroids). Studies and user reports suggest that S23 is the closest SARM to steroids, with a few key differences, such as decreased prostate size. Other user reports suggest that S23 is a much more powerful version of S4 (Andarine) and the benefits of this SARM falls in the category of hardening muscle and creating a grainier aesthetic look.
The effect from taking S23:
The number one benefit of supplementing with S23 is its ability to increase lean body mass. The second core benefit is the proven ability to retain gains after completing a cycle
Want to work out longer, harder and get better results every time you hit the gym? Users report enhanced speed, stamina and endurance during workouts when supplementing with S23. Additionally, thanks to its ability to increase lean muscle tissue and decrease fat, high-intensity workouts and interval training can be optimized every time.
S23 is to increase fat loss and fat oxidization. A study showed that rats treated with S23 increased lean muscle mass and bone mineral density whilst simultaneously reducing fat loss percentage. Interestingly, this study showed that there is an inverse relationship between a higher dose of S23 and a decrease in body fat. This suggests that a higher dose of S23 results increased fat loss.
Water retention isn’t all bad. Some users suggest that water retention and bloating experienced during bulking periods can help to lubricate and protect joints. But S23 has been shown to offer minimal (if any) water retention and bloating, which means that all gains during a cycle will be retained. The fact that S23 does not cause water retention makes it ideal for cutting periods.
Some users suggest using S23 to maintain and build lean muscle whilst cutting, as this SARM tends to develop dry, grainy-looking muscles that are otherwise unattainable without traditional steroids. Many body builders find S23 ideal in the lead up to competitions in order to create the level of muscular detail that wins competitions.
How it works: As a member of the SARM category, S23 works to selectively target and produce anabolic results in muscle and bone tissue without some of the limitations and side effects of traditional steroids.
Side effects: Below are some of the typical side effects associated with taking the S23 SARM, each one in further detail…
S23 is the most potent SARM to date and has been suggested to be as close to traditional steroids as possible. With this in mind, the side effects of S23 are dissimilar to other SARMs, in that it does actually show an effect on testosterone levels in the form of complete down. Users report minimizing or even eliminating this side effect by supporting their supplementation of S23 with Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT). These side effects were completely reversed in studies upon cessation of S23 and the completion of a full PCT.
Some users report increased aggression when supplementing with S23, which could be a deterrent to some users with known anger issues.
Temporary shrinkage of the testicles has been noted by some users, and the primary study on S23 shows prostate shrinkage. However, it’s worth noting that even with its similarities to steroids, the decrease in prostate size is unusual as steroids normally cause an increase, which can cause issues. Users note that testicle shrinkage was reversible once supplementation was stopped.
Some users report darker-than-usual urine while cycling S23. This stopped when the cycle was complete.
SR-9009 (Stenabolic) is in fact a Rev-ErbA ligand. Researchers have experienced many positive effects such as increased fat loss, endurance, and various health benefits. Over time, SR-9009 has become one of the most popular research chemicals used among athletes. There is no need to be a genius to realize all the possibilities SR-9009 opens to an athlete – amazing endurance and strength, fat loss, muscle hypertrophy (growth), improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and an increased metabolism. Hence, one can expect results similar to those seen with GW-501516 (Cardarine), but with considerably more extra benefits. Besides, since SR-9009 works great both solo or stacked, it will be a very good addition to any cycle, and it will give especially impressive results when used together with GW-501516 (Cardarine). All in all, SR-9009 will allow you to do more cardio training, lift more, lose fat, gain lean muscle mass, and improve cholesterol levels.
How it works: SR-9009 binds to the Rev-Erb protein and becomes more active. SR-9009 increases the number of mitochondria in the muscles. As a result, the researcher will notice an improvement in endurance and muscle strength. Furthermore, SR-9009 is known to increase the researcher’s metabolic rate by 5% when resting. Basically, the researcher will experience similar effects to exercising without actually exercising.
Side effects: Up to now, no side effects have been observed with SR-9009, so it may be seen as an extremely safe compound. Since SR-9009 is not a hormonal drug, it does not aromatize into estrogen and there is no suppression of natural testosterone production. Moreover, just like in the case of other modulator, SR-9009 is not liver toxic, but there is a need for liver supporting supplements when using it. N2Guard at 3-5 capsules per day will be sufficient liver and kidney support.
Info coming soon.
YK-11 is both a potent androgen and Myostatin Inhibitor. Myostatin is a protein that limits the growth and production of muscle tissue. By inhibiting myostatin, you can increase your genetic potential to build muscle tissue.
The effect from taking YK-11:
The biggest benefit of YK-11 before and after results is the fact that it can change the body’s ability to generate muscle, increasing the amount of muscle which can be added. This occurs because YK-11 inhibits the production of myostatin, a compound which reduces muscle growth. Without the myostatin impairing the muscle’s ability to grow, the body is able to add lean tissue much more easily. The effect on muscular growth is so profound that the effect of YK-11 can be said to be comparable to testosterone, far exceeding the more limited androgenic effect that other modulators produce. In addition to these very powerful muscle-building effects, YK-11 can deliver the other benefits such as fat loss, improving strength and increasing the ability to recover more quickly.
How it works: YK-11 attaches itself to an androgen receptor. This prompts muscle cells to produce more anabolic factors that in turn leads to increased muscle growth. Unlike most modulators that come with limited androgenic effects, this compound performs much better. In a past study, the effect of this compound on muscle cells was proven to be much higher. It was found that the muscle cells produced more anabolic compounds when exposed to 500 nmol of this compound than when exposed to testosterone.
Side effects: Based on first and logs findings, there are not any adverse effects noticed at all. YK11 has the ability to increase aggression but at the suggested dosage this should not be an issue.