Safety and side effects of SARMs

Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are a group of compounds that exhibit similar effects to anabolic steroids but with significantly lower risk of side effects. SARMs selectively bind to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, stimulating muscle growth and strength while minimizing effects in other tissues such as the skin or prostate gland [1].

Table of Contents:

• Potential Side Effects of SARMs
• How to Minimize the Risk of Side Effects?
• Long-Term Effects of SARMs Use

Potential side effects of SARMs

SARMs are considered a safer alternative to anabolic steroids, with a relatively low risk of side effects. Some of the potential, rarely occurring side effects include:

1. Temporary suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis: Prolonged use of SARMs may lead to a temporary reduction in natural testosterone production, which usually returns to normal after the cycle ends [2].
2. Slight changes in lipid profile: SARMs may in some cases affect cholesterol levels, but these changes are generally smaller than those caused by traditional anabolic steroids [3].
3. Minimal liver strain: Some SARMs, especially oral ones, may slightly strain the liver, but the risk of liver damage is significantly lower than with conventional steroids [4].

How to minimize the risk of side effects?

To minimize the already low risk of side effects, it is advisable to follow these guidelines:

1. Use SARMs according to recommendations and under the supervision of an experienced specialist.
2. Do not exceed recommended doses and cycle duration.
3. Consider post-cycle therapy (PCT) to support natural testosterone production if needed.
4. Regularly monitor blood tests to keep track of overall health.
5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Long-term effects of SARMs use

Currently available data suggest that long-term use of SARMs is safe and does not lead to serious health consequences. Most available information comes from animal studies or short-term clinical trials that confirm the favorable safety profile of these compounds [5].

In summary, SARMs offer promising benefits for athletes and individuals looking to improve body composition, strength, and performance with minimal risk of side effects. Sensible use, adherence to recommended protocols, and regular health monitoring allow for reaping the benefits of these compounds without fear of negative consequences. Further research confirms the safety of long-term SARMs use, making them an attractive option for those seeking effective and safe solutions to support physique development and athletic performance improvement [6].

References:

[1] Solomon ZJ, Mirabal JR, Mazur DJ, Kohn TP, Lipshultz LI, Pastuszak AW. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Current Knowledge and Clinical Applications. Sex Med Rev. 2019;7(1):84-94. doi:10.1016/j.sxmr.2018.09.006

[2] Christiansen AR, Lipshultz LI, Hotaling JM, Pastuszak AW. Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) as pharmacotherapies for the treatment of muscle wasting associated with cancer and other chronic illnesses. Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 2020;29(8):803-813. doi:10.1080/13543784.2020.1777275

[3] O'Connor MD. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): A Mini-Review. Int J Clin Res Trials. 2019;4(2):139. doi:10.15344/2456-8007/2019/139

[4] Machek SB, Cardaci TD, Wilburn DT, Willoughby DS. Considerations, Possible Contraindications, and Potential Mechanisms for Deleterious Effect in Recreational and Athletic Use of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) in lieu of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids: A Narrative Review. Steroids. 2021 Mar;167:108793. doi: 10.1016/j.steroids.2020.108793.

[5] Christiansen AR, Lipshultz LI, Hotaling JM, Pastuszak AW. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: The Future of Androgen Therapy?. Transl Androl Urol. 2020;9(Suppl 2):S135-S148. doi:10.21037/tau.2019.11.02

[6] Narayanan R, Coss CC, Dalton JT. Development of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs). Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2018 Mar 15;465:134-142. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.06.013.