SARMs and Bodybuilding: The Unfiltered Truth
An educational guide to Selective Androgen
Receptor Modulators in bodybuilding presented by Survival Supplements.
What Are SARMs? Understanding the Mechanism
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are experimental compounds that:
Selective Targeting
Bind primarily to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue while minimizing effects on other organs
Anabolic Promotion
Stimulate protein synthesis, enhancing muscle growth and improving bone density without equivalent androgenic effects
Steroid Alternative
Designed to produce fewer side effects than traditional anabolic steroids (reduced prostate issues, hair loss, etc.)
Purported Benefits in Bodybuilding
Lean Muscle Mass
Strength Enhancement
Body Recomposition
Clinical studies suggest potential for significant muscle gain (Ostarine showed 1.4 kg lean mass increase in elderly subjects)
User reports indicate notable increases in maximum strength and overall power output during training sessions
Some
SARMs
Bodybuilding appear to enhance fat oxidation while preserving muscle, potentially accelerating recovery between workouts
Significant Risks and Side Effects
Liver Toxicity
Multiple documented cases of Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI) directly linked to SARM use in otherwise healthy individuals
Hormonal Suppression
Natural testosterone production can be significantly suppressed, leading to fatigue, decreased libido, and potential need for Post Cycle Therapy
Cardiovascular Risks
Adverse lipid profile changes (decreased HDL, increased LDL) potentially increasing long-term heart disease risk
Quality Concerns
JAMA study (2017) found 52% of purchased SARMs contained no actual SARMs, and 39% contained unapproved substances
Legal Status and Regulation
FDA Classification
Not approved for human consumption; officially classified as unapproved new drugs with potential safety risks
Gray Market Status
Often sold illegally under "research chemicals" or "not for human consumption" labels to circumvent regulations
Sports Prohibition
All SARMs are prohibited at all times by the World AntiDoping Agency (WADA), leading to disqualifications and career-ending bans
