Is SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) safe?
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Safety of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs)
Introduction to SARMs and Their Mechanisms
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are a class of compounds that selectively bind to androgen receptors, promoting anabolic activity in muscle and bone while minimizing the androgenic effects typically associated with anabolic steroids. This selective binding is due to the unique chemical structures of different SARMs, which allow them to target specific tissues. SARMs have been explored for various clinical applications, including the treatment of muscle wasting diseases, hypogonadism, and certain cancers .
Clinical Applications and Early Research
Early clinical studies have shown promising results for SARMs in treating conditions such as cancer-related cachexia, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and hypogonadism. These studies have demonstrated good pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, with minimal drug interactions. However, despite these potential benefits, no SARMs have received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA) due to insufficient long-term safety and efficacy data .
Safety Concerns and Adverse Effects
Liver Toxicity and Cardiovascular Risks
One of the primary safety concerns associated with SARMs is drug-induced liver injury (DILI). Case reports have documented instances of liver toxicity, including elevated liver enzymes and jaundice, in individuals using SARMs recreationally . Additionally, there have been reports of cardiovascular issues such as myocarditis and elevated creatine phosphokinase levels, which can indicate muscle damage .
Tendon and Muscle Injuries
SARMs have also been linked to tendon and muscle injuries. Case reports have described incidents of Achilles tendon rupture and rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue. These injuries are particularly concerning for athletes who may use SARMs to enhance performance .
Contamination and Mislabeling of Products
Another significant issue is the contamination and mislabeling of SARMs products available online. Studies have found that many SARMs supplements contain undeclared substances or incorrect dosages, posing additional risks to consumers. This lack of regulation and quality control further complicates the safety profile of SARMs.
Recreational Use and Abuse
The abuse of SARMs among athletes and bodybuilders is a growing concern. Despite being banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), SARMs are readily available for purchase online and are often marketed as safe alternatives to anabolic steroids . However, the misuse of these compounds at higher doses than those studied in clinical trials increases the risk of adverse effects .
Conclusion
While SARMs offer potential therapeutic benefits, their safety profile remains a significant concern. Reports of liver toxicity, cardiovascular issues, and muscle injuries highlight the need for caution. The contamination and mislabeling of SARMs products further exacerbate these risks. Until more comprehensive long-term safety data are available, the use of SARMs, particularly for recreational purposes, should be approached with caution. Health care providers and sports organizations must educate themselves and the public about the potential dangers of SARMs to prevent misuse and promote safer practices.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Current Knowledge and Clinical Applications.
Safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacological effects of the selective androgen receptor modulator, GSK2881078, in healthy men and postmenopausal women
Poster 390: Systematic Review of SARMs Abuse in Athletes
Systematic Review of Safety of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators in Healthy Adults: Implications for Recreational Users
Analysis of supplements available to UK consumers purporting to contain Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators.
Deciphering the selective androgen receptor modulators paradigm
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs): a novel approach to androgen therapy for the new millennium.
Considerations, possible contraindications, and potential mechanisms for deleterious effect in recreational and athletic use of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) in lieu of anabolic androgenic steroids: A narrative review
Improving selective androgen receptor modulator discovery and preclinical evaluation
Social media’s impact on widespread SARMs abuse
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