Safest SARMs Ranked: The Ultimate Guide to Low-Risk Gains

Ever wondered what the safest SARMs are? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulators), and provide valuable insights into the safest options available for those looking to enhance their physique, strength, and performance while minimising potential risks.

With a plethora of SARMs on the market, it can be challenging to determine which compounds offer the best balance between effectiveness and safety. We’ve done the research and compiled the essential information to help you make informed decisions and navigate the world of SARMs with confidence. So, let’s dive into the world of low-risk SARMs and discover the top contenders for achieving your fitness goals without compromising your health.

Which SARM has the least side effects?

Ostarine (MK-2866) is considered to have the least side effects due to its relatively mild nature and lower potency compared to other SARMs, often referred to as the ‘safest SARM’. It is essential to note that the safety of a SARM largely depends on its dosage and the duration of the cycle. Let’s delve into the scientific applications and comparisons between Ostarine, Andarine, Ligandrol, RAD-140, S-23, and YK-11.

Ostarine (MK-2866)

Ostarine was developed to combat muscle-wasting diseases and osteoporosis. It selectively binds to androgen receptors in the muscle and bone tissues, stimulating anabolic effects without causing significant androgenic side effects. Due to its mild nature, Ostarine is often recommended for beginners or those looking for a relatively safe option; often considered one of the safest SARMs. However, it is still essential to follow appropriate dosage guidelines and cycle duration.

ACP-105

ACP-105 is a newer SARM, developed as an alternative to traditional anabolic steroids for treating muscle wasting diseases and osteoporosis. It has a strong anabolic effect with minimal androgenic side effects. ACP-105 has demonstrated promising results in preclinical studies, but the safety data from human trials is limited. While it has the potential as a safer alternative to anabolic steroids, more research is needed to fully understand its safety profile. It is also considered one of the safest SARMs.

AC-262,356 (AC-262)

AC-262 is another novel SARM that has shown potential in preclinical studies. It was developed as an alternative treatment for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, prostate cancer, and muscle wasting diseases. AC-262 exhibits a moderate anabolic effect with minimal androgenic side effects. As with ACP-105, the safety data from human trials is limited, and more research is required to determine its safety profile. AC-262 is often considered one of the safest SARMs to use.

Cardarine and SR-9009

SR-9009 (Stenabolic) and Cardarine (GW-501516) are two popular compounds often compared due to their potential effects on endurance, fat loss, and metabolic function. While both are commonly grouped with SARMs, they are not selective androgen receptor modulators; instead, they act through different mechanisms. SR-9009 is a REV-ERB agonist, which influences the body’s circadian rhythm and energy metabolism, while Cardarine is a PPARδ (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta) agonist, primarily affecting fatty acid metabolism.

Due to their non-androgenic nature, these compounds are generally considered to have fewer side effects related to hormonal disruption, such as testosterone suppression, which are commonly associated with SARMs.

Andarine (S4)

Andarine was initially developed to treat osteoporosis and muscle-wasting diseases. It has a higher affinity for androgen receptors compared to Ostarine but can cause more side effects, such as visual disturbances. These side effects are usually temporary and reversible upon discontinuation of the compound.

Ligandrol (LGD-4033)

Ligandrol was designed to treat muscle wasting conditions and age-related muscle loss. It is more potent than Ostarine, but this also means it has a higher potential for side effects, such as increased suppression of natural testosterone production. Proper Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is often recommended after a cycle of Ligandrol to help restore hormonal balance.

RAD-140 (Testolone)

RAD-140 is one of the most potent SARMs available, with a strong anabolic effect. It was developed to treat muscle-wasting diseases and breast cancer. Its potency means that it carries a higher risk of side effects, such as testosterone suppression and liver strain. Due to its potency, it is recommended for experienced users and should be used with caution, following appropriate dosage and cycle lengths.

S-23

S-23 is a newer and more potent SARM, primarily researched for its potential use in male hormonal contraception. It is known for its high anabolic activity and, therefore, has a higher risk of side effects, including significant testosterone suppression. Proper PCT is crucial after a cycle of S-23.

YK-11

YK-11 is a unique compound, as it is both a SARM and a myostatin inhibitor. It has strong anabolic effects and promotes muscle growth by inhibiting the production of myostatin, a protein that limits muscle growth. However, YK-11 is relatively under-researched compared to other SARMs, and its safety profile is not well-established. The potential side effects and long-term implications of YK-11 use are not fully understood.

In conclusion, Ostarine is considered the SARM with the least side effects due to its milder nature and lower potency compared to other SARMs. ACP-105 and AC-262 are also two contenders; taking these two SARMs into consideration, Ostarine (MK-2866) still remains the safest option for beginners due to its mild nature, lower potency, and more extensive research compared to ACP-105 and AC-262. While ACP-105 and AC-262 show promise as safer alternatives to traditional anabolic steroids, they are relatively under-researched, and their safety profiles are not yet well-established.

It is also important to remember that safety depends on factors such as dosage, cycle length, and individual response.

What are the safest SARMs for beginners?

Ostarine (MK-2866) is widely considered the safest SARM for beginners due to its relatively mild nature and lower potency compared to other SARMs. It selectively binds to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, promoting anabolic effects without causing significant androgenic side effects.

Ostarine was initially developed to combat muscle-wasting diseases and osteoporosis, but it has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders for its potential to promote muscle growth, enhance strength, and improve bone density. Its mild nature makes it an ideal choice for those new to SARMs or individuals looking for a less potent option with fewer side effects.

However, it is crucial to emphasise that even the safest SARMs can pose risks if not used correctly. It is essential to follow appropriate dosage guidelines, cycle duration, and consider Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) if needed. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any SARM cycle and be aware of the potential risks and side effects.

Safest SARMs Ranked

The 3 safest SARMs are widely considered to be:

1. Ostarine
2. ACP-105
3. AC-262

What are the dangers of SARMs?

Many SARMs are still relatively new and under-researched, which means their long-term effects on health are not yet fully understood. While short-term use may appear to be relatively safe, the potential risks associated with long-term use are not well-established. Here are the most common concerns with SARMs usage:

Do SARMs cause erectile dysfunction?

SARMs can suppress the body’s natural testosterone production, leading to hormonal imbalances. Lower testosterone levels can result in symptoms like decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. The extent of testosterone suppression depends on the potency of the SARM, the dosage, and the length of the cycle. The safest SARMs, like Ostarine (MK-2866), are considered milder and less likely to cause significant testosterone suppression, while others, like S-23, are more potent and can lead to more severe hormonal imbalances.

To minimise the risk of erectile dysfunction and other side effects associated with SARMs, it is crucial to follow appropriate dosage guidelines and cycle durations. After completing a cycle, some users may require Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) to help restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms related to low testosterone levels, such as erectile dysfunction.

Do SARMs cause liver damage?

Some SARMs can cause liver stress or damage, especially when taken in high doses or for extended periods. Regular monitoring of liver function and adherence to dosage guidelines can help reduce the risk of liver toxicity.

SARMs are usually taken orally, which means they must pass through the liver, potentially causing stress or damage over time. Certain SARMs, like RAD-140 (Testolone) or LGD-4033 (Ligandrol), may pose a higher risk of liver toxicity compared to others. It is essential to note that the overall risk of liver damage from SARMs is generally lower than that associated with traditional anabolic steroids.

To minimise the risk of liver damage when using SARMs, it is important to:

• Follow appropriate dosage guidelines and cycle durations.
• Avoid using multiple SARMs simultaneously, as this can increase the risk of liver toxicity.
• Monitor liver function during and after the cycle using blood tests. This can help identify any potential issues early and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration, to support liver health.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption or the use of other substances that may cause liver damage during a SARM cycle.

Do SARMs affect sperm count?

SARMs can potentially affect sperm count due to their ability to suppress the body’s natural testosterone production. Testosterone is an essential hormone for sperm production, so when levels decrease, sperm count can be negatively impacted.

The extent of testosterone suppression and the subsequent effect on sperm count depends on several factors, such as the specific SARM used, dosage, cycle duration, and individual response. Some SARMs, like Ostarine (MK-2866), are considered milder and less likely to cause significant testosterone suppression, while others, like S-23, are more potent and can lead to more pronounced hormonal imbalances.

It is important to note that the reduction in sperm count caused by SARMs is usually temporary. Once the SARM cycle is completed and natural testosterone production resumes, sperm count typically returns to normal levels. In some cases, Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) may be necessary to help restore hormonal balance and expedite the recovery of sperm count.

Do SARMs cause hair loss?

SARMs have a lower risk of causing hair loss compared to traditional anabolic steroids, but the potential for hair loss still exists. The likelihood of experiencing hair loss from SARMs depends on several factors, such as the specific SARM used, dosage, cycle duration, and individual predisposition to hair loss or androgenic alopecia.

SARMs are designed to selectively target androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, promoting anabolic effects without many of the androgenic side effects associated with steroids. However, some SARMs may still cause a degree of androgenic activity, which can contribute to hair loss in genetically susceptible individuals.

The risk of hair loss varies among different SARMs, with some being more prone to cause this side effect than others. For example, Ostarine (MK-2866) is considered a milder SARM (or one of the safest SARMs) and is less likely to cause hair loss, while more potent SARMs, like RAD-140 (Testolone), might carry a higher risk.

It is important to note that not everyone who uses SARMs will experience hair loss. Genetic factors play a significant role, and individuals with a family history of androgenic alopecia may be more susceptible to hair loss when using SARMs or other androgenic compounds.

Are SARMs bad for your heart?

SARMs can have both potentially beneficial and detrimental effects on heart health, depending on various factors such as the specific SARM used, dosage, cycle duration, and individual response.

Some studies have suggested potential indirect benefits on cardiovascular health due to their effects on muscle growth and body composition. Improved muscle mass and reduced body fat can lead to better cardiovascular fitness, reduced inflammation, and improved insulin sensitivity.

However, it is essential to note that research on the cardiovascular benefits of SARMs is still limited, and further studies are needed to fully understand their potential effects on heart health.

Potential beneficial effects on heart health:

SARMs have been shown to promote muscle growth and improve overall body composition, which could have indirect positive effects on heart health. Improved muscle mass and reduced body fat can lead to better cardiovascular fitness, reduced inflammation, and improved insulin sensitivity.

Ostarine (MK-2866): Ostarine is one of the most well-researched and safest SARMs, primarily developed for treating muscle-wasting diseases and osteoporosis. Studies have shown that it can promote muscle growth and improve body composition, which could have indirect positive effects on heart health.

Cardarine (GW-501516): Although Cardarine is not technically a SARM, it is often grouped with SARMs due to its similar effects on muscle growth and fat loss. Cardarine is a PPARδ agonist, which has been shown to increase endurance, improve lipid profiles, and reduce inflammation in some studies. These effects could potentially have positive implications for cardiovascular health. However, it is essential to note that there have been concerns about its potential long-term effects, including an increased risk of cancer.

Potential detrimental effects on heart health:

SARMs can have several negative effects on heart health, including:

• Lipid profile changes: Some SARMs can negatively affect cholesterol levels, increasing LDL (bad) cholesterol and decreasing HDL (good) cholesterol. These changes in the lipid profile can potentially increase the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
• Blood pressure: SARMs may cause an increase in blood pressure in some individuals, especially when used at high doses or for extended periods. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

To minimise the potential negative effects of SARMs on heart health, it is crucial to follow appropriate dosage guidelines and cycle durations. Monitoring cardiovascular health during a SARM cycle and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, are essential.

Contaminated or counterfeit products

The SARMs market is largely unregulated, which increases the risk of purchasing contaminated or counterfeit products, even when buying the ‘safest’ SARMs on the market. Some products may contain harmful substances, incorrect dosages, or other active ingredients not listed on the label. To minimise this risk, it is crucial to purchase SARMs from reputable sources.

Potential interactions with medications

SARMs may interact with other medications, causing unwanted side effects or reducing the effectiveness of the medication. Even if you are using one of the safest SARMs on the market, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional before starting a SARM cycle, especially if you are taking any medications.

Can you take SARMs safely?

While SARMs have been developed to provide anabolic effects with fewer side effects than traditional anabolic steroids, their use still carries risks – even the safest SARMs. To minimise these risks and use SARMs as safely as possible, consider the following guidelines:

• Consult a healthcare professional: Before starting any SARM cycle, consult a healthcare professional to discuss your individual health status, medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of using SARMs.
• Choose a reputable source: The SARMs market is largely unregulated, which increases the risk of purchasing contaminated or counterfeit products. Buy SARMs from a reputable source and verify the product’s quality through third-party testing.
• Follow dosage guidelines: Adhere to the recommended dosage and cycle duration for the specific SARM you are using. Excessive dosages or prolonged cycles can increase the risk of side effects.
• Monitor health during and after the cycle: Regularly check your health, including blood tests, to monitor hormone levels, liver function, and other markers. This can help identify any potential issues early and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Post Cycle Therapy (PCT): Depending on the potency of the SARM and the duration of the cycle, a PCT may be necessary to help restore normal hormonal levels and mitigate side effects.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Support your body during a SARM cycle by maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate hydration, and proper sleep. This can help minimize the risk of side effects and promote overall well-being.

What happens if you take SARMs for too long?

Taking SARMs for extended periods or beyond the recommended cycle duration can increase the risk of experiencing negative side effects and potentially cause long-term health issues. Even with the safest SARMs, some potential consequences of prolonged cycle length may include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Liver stress or damage
• Negative effects on lipid profile
• Dependency
• Unknown long-term effects

How long can you stay on SARMs?

The recommended cycle length for SARMs can vary depending on the specific compound, individual goals, and personal tolerance. Even if using the safest SARMs, these general guidelines are advised:

• Mild SARMs (e.g., Ostarine/MK-2866, Andarine/S4, ACP-105, AC-262 or Ligandrol/LGD-4033): These are typically used in cycles of 8-12 weeks, followed by an equal or longer off-cycle period to allow the body to recover.
• Potent SARMs (e.g., RAD-140/Testolone, YK-11, or S-23): These may require shorter cycles of 6-8 weeks due to their potency and potential for increased side effects. An off-cycle period equal to or longer than the on-cycle duration is recommended.

Keep in mind that these guidelines may not apply to everyone, and individual factors, such as age, health status, and previous experience with SARMs, can influence the optimal cycle length.

Do you lose gains after stopping SARMs?

After stopping a SARMs cycle, it is possible to experience some small loss of gains, particularly if you do not take appropriate steps to maintain your progress. Several factors can influence the extent of muscle and strength retention post-cycle:

• Hormonal balance: SARMs can suppress the body’s natural testosterone production, which is crucial for maintaining muscle mass. If hormonal levels do not return to normal after the cycle, muscle loss may occur.
• Post Cycle Therapy (PCT): PCT can help restore hormonal balance and minimise muscle loss after a SARMs cycle. Depending on the specific SARM used, its potency, and the cycle duration, a PCT may be necessary to maintain gains.
• Training and nutrition: Continuing with a well-designed training program and maintaining a balanced diet with adequate protein intake are crucial for retaining muscle gains after a SARMs cycle. If you significantly reduce your training intensity or neglect your nutrition, muscle loss is more likely to occur.
• Individual response: Each person’s ability to maintain gains after stopping SARMs can vary depending on genetics, age, training experience, and other factors.

To maximise the retention of gains after stopping SARMs, focus on restoring hormonal balance, maintaining a consistent training routine, and following a proper diet plan.

What’s safer SARMs or steroids?

SARMs are generally considered to be safer than traditional anabolic steroids due to their selective mechanism of action. They were developed to provide the anabolic effects of steroids with fewer side effects. Note: the safest SARMs are also the mildest, which means their effects will also be much milder than steroids.

Some reasons why SARMs are considered to be safer than steroids include:

• Selectivity: SARMs target specific androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue, which reduces the risk of side effects commonly associated with steroids, such as acne, hair loss, and prostate enlargement.
• Lesser hormonal disruption: SARMs typically cause less suppression of natural testosterone production than anabolic steroids, reducing the risk of long-term hormonal imbalances.
• No conversion to estrogen or DHT: Unlike some anabolic steroids, SARMs do not convert to estrogen or dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can cause side effects such as gynecomastia, water retention, and prostate issues.
• Oral administration: Most SARMs are taken orally, which eliminates the need for injections and the associated risks of infection and scarring.

Is there a better option than SARMs?

Whether there is a better option than SARMs depends on your individual goals, health status, and personal preferences. Choosing a compound from our list of the safest SARMs can be the best option for most people if wanting to reduce negative side effects. Other alternatives to SARMs include:

• Natural training and nutrition: A well-designed training program combined with a balanced, nutrient-dense diet is the foundation for achieving fitness goals without the use of any performance-enhancing compounds. This approach is the safest and most sustainable way to build muscle, strength, and overall fitness.
• Supplements: Various legal and widely available supplements can support muscle growth, recovery, and performance, such as protein powders, creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and beta-alanine. These supplements can be beneficial when used in conjunction with a proper training and nutrition program.
• Peptides: Peptides, like growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) and growth hormone secretagogues, can have anabolic effects, enhance recovery, and support fat loss. However, their use may also come with potential side effects and legal implications, depending on the jurisdiction.

Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your goals, risk tolerance, and commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Are SARMs actually worth it?

Determining whether SARMs are worth it depends on an individual’s goals, risk tolerance, and personal circumstances. If you opt for one of the top 3 safest SARMs as listed in this article, you would be minimising risks and potential side effects.

Ultimately, deciding whether SARMs are worth it comes down to an individual’s priorities, goals, and willingness to accept the potential risks and uncertainties associated with their use.