From the Guidelines
Testolone (RAD140) should not be used for therapeutic purposes outside of controlled clinical trials due to its unproven safety profile and lack of FDA approval. This selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) is currently being investigated for potential applications in treating muscle wasting and breast cancer, but remains experimental. The potential benefits of RAD140 include increased muscle mass, improved bone density, and possible neuroprotective effects without some of the prostate-related side effects of traditional testosterone therapy 1. However, the significant drawbacks include liver toxicity, cardiovascular risks including lipid profile disruption and potential heart damage, hormonal imbalances leading to testosterone suppression, and unknown long-term effects. No established therapeutic dosing protocols exist, and self-administration typically involves 5-20mg daily for 8-12 weeks, which carries substantial health risks. Anyone considering SARMs should consult with healthcare providers and understand that using these compounds for body enhancement is illegal and potentially dangerous. Alternative FDA-approved treatments for muscle wasting or hormonal issues, such as traditional hormone replacement therapy under medical supervision, offer safer options with established risk profiles. Some key points to consider when evaluating the use of Testolone (RAD140) include:
- The lack of long-term safety data and the potential for serious adverse effects
- The absence of established therapeutic dosing protocols
- The risks associated with self-administration, including liver toxicity and cardiovascular risks
- The availability of alternative, FDA-approved treatments for muscle wasting and hormonal issues. It is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals and to rely on evidence-based medicine when making decisions about therapeutic interventions 1.
From the Research
Testolone (RAD140) Pros and Cons
- The pros of using Testolone (RAD140) include its potent anabolic effects on bones and muscles with little androgenic effect, making it a potential therapeutic agent for conditions such as sarcopenia 2.
- However, the cons of using Testolone (RAD140) outweigh its potential benefits, as it has been associated with hepatotoxicity, including idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury, which can lead to fulminant liver failure or decompensated liver cirrhosis if left untreated 3, 4.
- Additionally, long-term supplementation of RAD140 has been shown to negatively impact skeletal muscle adaptation, frailty status, and mortality risk in female mice, suggesting that it may be more detrimental than beneficial in delaying or preventing sarcopenia 2.
- There is also a lack of reliable comparative data between different testosterone preparations, including RAD140, which makes it difficult to determine the most suitable formula for individual patients 5.
- Furthermore, the use of RAD140 and other selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) has been linked to androgen misuse and abuse, particularly in the context of power sports and bodybuilding, which can have serious health consequences 6.