Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, commonly known as SARMs, are a class of therapeutic compounds designed to have similar anabolic effects as anabolic steroids, but with a more targeted approach to minimize androgenic side effects. Unlike traditional anabolic steroids that affect the entire body, SARMs are designed to selectively bind to androgen receptors in specific tissues. This selectivity is what makes them a subject of interest for potential medical applications.
The Science Behind SARMs
The androgen receptor is a protein inside cells that binds to androgens, such as testosterone. This binding triggers a cascade of events that lead to muscle growth, increased bone density, and other effects. Anabolic steroids bind to androgen receptors throughout the body, leading to both desired and undesired effects. SARMs, on the other hand, are designed to target androgen receptors in specific tissues, such as muscle and bone, while avoiding receptors in other tissues like the liver and skin. This selective action theoretically allows for the stimulation of muscle and bone growth without the unwanted side effects associated with anabolic steroids.
Chemical structure of Ostarine (Enobosarm), a SARM.
Potential Medical Applications of SARMs
Researchers are evaluating SARMs for their potential to treat muscle-wasting conditions caused by various diseases, including:
- Osteoporosis
- Cancer
- Heart failure
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- End-stage liver disease
- End-stage renal disease
- HIV
The goal is to develop SARMs that can help patients maintain or rebuild muscle mass and bone density, improving their quality of life and overall health. However, it’s crucial to remember that all SARMs are currently for investigational purposes only. They have not been fully approved for medical use.
SARMs and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)
It’s important to note that all SARMs are prohibited at all times (both in and out-of-competition) for all athletes according to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). They are classified as “Other Anabolic Agents” under section S1.2 of the WADA Prohibited List. Common examples of SARMs include:
- Ostarine (Enobosarm, MK 2866)
- Andarine
- LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)
- RAD140 (Testolone)
SARMs are banned in sports due to their potential for performance enhancement. Their anabolic properties and ability to stimulate androgen receptors in muscle and bone can lead to unfair advantages for athletes who use them.
Legal and Safety Concerns Surrounding SARMs
Currently, there are no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved SARMs available for prescription. Because all SARMs are investigational drugs, it is not legal for a doctor to prescribe them.
The FDA has issued warnings to consumers about the potential for life-threatening side effects from SARMs, including an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. The long-term effects of SARM use are still unknown, making them a potentially dangerous substance to consume.
SARMs and Dietary Supplements: A Risky Combination
SARMs are not legal ingredients for any dietary supplements. Despite this, many supplements are marketed as containing SARMs, or are contaminated with them. These products are often marketed towards athletes and bodybuilders.
The FDA warns against using SARMs in body-building products. As of now, over 120 of these products are listed on the Supplement Connect High Risk List. Dietary supplements containing SARMs can pose significant health risks to athletes and may cause a positive drug test.
Some common SARMs illegally marketed in dietary supplements or as research chemicals include:
- Ostarine (Enobosarm, MK2866, S22)
- Andarine (S4)
- LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)
- LGD-3033
- TT-701
- RAD140 (Testolone)
- S23
Other prohibited substances sometimes incorrectly marketed as SARMs include:
- SR9009 (Stenabolic)
- Ibutamoren (MK-677, Nutrabol)
- GW501516 (GW1516, Cardarine, Endurobol)
- YK-11
The Growing Number of Adverse Analytical Findings (AAFs) for SARMs
SARMs were added to the WADA Prohibited List in 2008, and the first AAF involving a SARM was reported in 2010. Since then, the number of AAFs related to SARMs has steadily increased worldwide. In the U.S. alone, SARMs have been linked to over 50 sanctions. Globally, SARMs have accounted for more than 230 positive tests since 2012. This highlights the growing concern about SARM use in sports and the importance of ongoing efforts to detect and prevent their use.
The Bottom Line on SARMs
SARMs hold promise for potential medical applications in treating muscle-wasting diseases. However, they are currently investigational drugs with potential health risks. Their use is prohibited in sports by WADA due to their performance-enhancing effects. Consumers should be aware of the risks associated with SARMs, especially those found in dietary supplements. Always consult with a healthcare professional before considering any new supplement or treatment. If you are an athlete, be aware of the WADA prohibited list and ensure that any medications or supplements you take are compliant.
