Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, or SARMs, are research chemicals designed to interact with androgen receptors selectively. Unlike traditional anabolic steroids, SARMs aim to encourage muscle growth and fat reduction while limiting the range of unwanted side effects. Two of the most discussed compounds in this arena are Ostarine and RAD 140, each offering unique benefits and risks that make them appealing for different fitness goals.
Benefits for Bodybuilding
Muscle Development
Ostarine:
Often favored by beginners, Ostarine is characterized as a gentler SARM. It is typically used by individuals seeking to add roughly 10 pounds of lean muscle while simultaneously shedding fat. Notably, the anabolic response in females is pronounced, with many reporting lean mass increases that can exceed 15 pounds.
RAD 140:
In contrast, RAD 140 is known for its aggressive muscle-building properties. It is frequently utilized during bulking cycles where the primary goal is rapid muscle and strength development. Users have noted gains up to 14 pounds of lean muscle, with many comparing its efficacy to that of the most potent anabolic agents on the market.
Enhancing Strength
When it comes to boosting muscular strength, RAD 140 generally outperforms Ostarine. Many athletes have observed improvements, such as substantial increases in bench press and leg press weights after just one cycle. In fact, RAD 140 is often mentioned alongside other high-potency compounds like YK-11 and S23 when discussing strength enhancements.
Fat Reduction and Body Composition
Ostarine has a well-documented reputation for its fat-burning capabilities, making it a popular choice during cutting phases. Its ability to enhance muscle definition is partly due to its lipolytic properties, which help reveal the underlying muscle. While RAD 140 also aids in fat loss, users frequently adopt a high-calorie diet during its cycle to maximize muscle gains. This nutritional approach can sometimes lead to temporary water retention or bloating, which might obscure muscle definition during the active phase of the cycle.
Weighing the Risks and Side Effects
Testosterone Suppression
One of the primary concerns with SARMs is their potential to disrupt the body’s natural testosterone production.
Ostarine: Generally considered less suppressive, many users forgo post-cycle therapy (PCT) without experiencing severe hypogonadal symptoms. However, there have been reports of significant testosterone declines—up to 70% in some cases—suggesting that even this milder option warrants caution.
RAD 140: Known for its potency, RAD 140 typically necessitates a structured PCT regimen. There have been instances where users experienced dramatic reductions in testosterone levels, sometimes dropping from normal ranges (e.g., 750 ng/dL) to levels as low as 193 ng/dL over a 12-week cycle.
Recovery from these hormonal changes can vary, with natural restoration taking several weeks to a couple of months. The use of PCT medications like Nolvadex or Clomid can accelerate this process by supporting the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis.
Cardiovascular Concerns
Both Ostarine and RAD 140 have been associated with alterations in cholesterol levels, particularly a reduction in HDL (the “good” cholesterol), which can lead to increased blood pressure.
Ostarine: Cases have shown a notable rise in systolic blood pressure within a few days of starting a cycle.
RAD 140: Due to its higher potency, RAD 140 may trigger more significant blood pressure elevations and is linked with symptoms such as chest pain or numbness. Individuals with preexisting hypertension should exercise extreme caution or avoid these compounds altogether.
Liver Health and Toxicity
Liver toxicity is another risk factor with SARMs. Both compounds can elevate liver enzymes (ALT and AST), indicating hepatic stress.
Clinical Examples: There have been documented cases where RAD 140 induced hepatocellular-cholestatic injury after a short-term cycle, particularly in individuals who had been using other medications like antidepressants. Similarly, Ostarine has been linked to cases of cholestatic injury, sometimes presenting with jaundice.
Mitigation Strategies: To help protect liver health, many experts recommend supplementing with TUDCA (around 500 mg daily) or Liv52.Ds (2 tablets daily) during a cycle, while also avoiding alcohol and other hepatotoxic substances.
Real Bodybuilders Results
The observable outcomes of using these compounds often depend on the user’s overall regimen, including diet.
RAD 140 Users: Generally, those on RAD 140 tend to follow a higher calorie intake to maximize anabolic benefits, leading to substantial muscle growth and strength gains. One of our customers shared a remarkable increase in muscle mass (approximately 10 pounds) even when maintaining a slight calorie surplus.
Ostarine Users: In contrast, bodybuilders using Ostarine often pair their cycle with a calorie-deficit diet to accentuate fat loss and muscle definition. This approach can yield a leaner, more vascular appearance, particularly in areas like the arms and shoulders. Our customer Patrick shared his Ostarine only cycle 8 weeks transformation:
Recommended Dosages
For those considering these SARMs, dosage plays the most important role in balancing benefits and side effects.
Ostarine: Commonly, men opt for 10–20 mg per day while women typically take 5–10 mg per day.
RAD 140: Dosages for RAD 140 are similar, though due to its increased potency, users may experience more pronounced effects even at equivalent doses. Consequently, a lower dosage is sometimes recommended for women, with men often starting at 10–20 mg per day.
It’s always best to start with the lowest dosage that yields positive results and gradually increase it if needed. If you are already experiencing good benefits at this dosage, it is not recommended to increase it further.
Ostarine and RAD-140 Pricing in United Kingdom for 2025
Updated market analysis in United Kingdom indicates the following pricing trends:
Ostarine: Approximately £47.90.00 for a 20mg tablets in 60 caps box.
RAD 140: Roughly £45.90 for a 10mg tablets in 60 caps box.
These figures suggest that RAD 140 tends to be pricier on a per-milligram basis, in compare to previously years.
Conclusion: Choosing Between Ostarine and RAD 140
Both Ostarine and RAD 140 are effective tools for enhancing body composition, yet they cater to different goals and risk profiles:
RAD 140 stands out as a more aggressive compound, offering superior strength and muscle gains, making it an ideal candidate for bulking. However, its robust action comes with a higher likelihood of side effects, including significant testosterone suppression and cardiovascular strain.
Ostarine, with its milder profile, is often preferred by beginners and those focused on achieving a lean, defined physique, particularly when combined with a calorie-controlled diet. Its lower risk of severe side effects makes it a more approachable option for many.
Ultimately, the decision to use either compound should be made with careful consideration of one’s health, goals, and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Sources used:
Leung, K., Yaramada, P., Goyal, P., Cai, C. X., Thung, I., & Hammami, M. B. (2022). RAD-140 Drug-Induced Liver Injury. Ochsner journal, 22(4), 361–365.https://doi.org/10.31486/toj.22.0005
Narayanan, R., Mohler, M. L., Bohl, C. E., Miller, D. D., & Dalton, J. T. (2008). Selective androgen receptor modulators in preclinical and clinical development. Nuclear receptor signaling, 6, e010. https://doi.org/10.1621/nrs.06010
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Ramesh Narayanan, Michael L. Mohler, Casey E. Bohl, Duane D. Miller and James T. Dalton
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JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023, 74, 4, 423-430
www.jpp.krakow.pl | DOI: 10.26402/jpp.2023.4.06
Author
Dr. Aditya K. Sharma
I am Dr. Aditya Sharma, a dedicated urologist specializing in kidney transplants and advanced urological surgeries. My career is driven by a passion for delivering exceptional care and pioneering surgical techniques. Outside the operating room, I have a keen interest in studying the effects of anabolic steroids on bodybuilding, seeking to understand the fine line between enhancing performance and maintaining health.
