From the Guidelines
SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) generally do not increase free testosterone levels; in fact, they typically decrease natural testosterone production. SARMs work by selectively binding to androgen receptors in certain tissues, mimicking the effects of testosterone without actually increasing testosterone levels. When you take SARMs, your body detects the androgen activity and reduces its own testosterone production through negative feedback mechanisms. This suppression can vary in severity depending on the specific SARM, dosage, and duration of use. Common SARMs like Ostarine (MK-2866), Ligandrol (LGD-4033), and RAD-140 all cause some degree of testosterone suppression rather than increasing free testosterone.
Some key points to consider:
- The use of SARMs can lead to a decrease in natural testosterone production, which may have negative effects on fertility and overall health 1.
- Testosterone replacement therapy, under the supervision of a physician, is a more appropriate approach for individuals with clinically low testosterone levels 1.
- Lifestyle factors such as sleep quality, stress levels, body fat, strength training, and nutrition also play a crucial role in maintaining healthy testosterone levels.
In terms of specific SARM compounds, none of the available evidence suggests that they increase free testosterone levels. In fact, the majority of studies indicate that SARMs suppress natural testosterone production. For example, a study on enobosarm, a first-in-class SARM, showed increased lean body mass and power, but did not mention an increase in free testosterone levels 1.
Overall, if the goal is to increase free testosterone levels, it is recommended to address lifestyle factors and consider physician-supervised testosterone replacement therapy, rather than using SARMs. This approach prioritizes morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outcomes, and is supported by the most recent and highest quality evidence available 1.
From the Research
SARM Compounds and Free Testosterone Levels
- There are no direct studies that investigate the effects of specific SARM compounds on free testosterone levels 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that some SARMs can suppress testosterone production, leading to decreased free testosterone levels 6.
- The use of SARMs has been associated with various side effects, including testosterone suppression, which can affect free testosterone levels 2, 6.
- Some studies suggest that SARMs can increase lean body mass and muscle strength, but the effects on free testosterone levels are not well understood 4, 6.
Specific SARM Compounds
- LGD-4033 (ligandrol) is a SARM that has been studied for its elimination profiles and metabolite ratios, but its effects on free testosterone levels are not well understood 5.
- Other SARMs, such as those mentioned in the systematic review, may have similar effects on testosterone production and free testosterone levels, but more research is needed to confirm this 6.
Limitations and Future Research
- More research is needed to understand the effects of specific SARM compounds on free testosterone levels and to determine the safety and efficacy of these compounds for various uses 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The current evidence suggests that SARMs can have negative effects on testosterone production and free testosterone levels, but more studies are needed to confirm this and to understand the mechanisms behind these effects 6.