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 steroids1. This selective binding is due to the unique chemical structures of different SARMs, which allow them to target specific tissues1. SARMs have been explored for various clinical applications, including the treatment of muscle wasting diseases, hypogonadism, and certain cancers1 6.
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 hypogonadism1. These studies have demonstrated good pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, with minimal drug interactions1. 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 data5 6.
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 recreationally3 4. Additionally, there have been reports of cardiovascular issues such as myocarditis and elevated creatine phosphokinase levels, which can indicate muscle damage2 3.
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 tissue4. These injuries are particularly concerning for athletes who may use SARMs to enhance performance3 4.
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 consumers5. This lack of regulation and quality control further complicates the safety profile of SARMs5.
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 steroids3 10. However, the misuse of these compounds at higher doses than those studied in clinical trials increases the risk of adverse effects3 8.
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.
SARMs show potential for safe use in treating cancer-related cachexia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, hypogonadism, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.
Systematic Review
Highly CitedSafety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacological effects of the selective androgen receptor modulator, GSK2881078, in healthy men and postmenopausal women
GSK2881078 shows pharmacodynamic effects with acceptable tolerability and supports further clinical evaluation for its potential use in muscle building and weight loss.
RCT
Rigorous JournalPoster 390: Systematic Review of SARMs Abuse in Athletes
SARMs can increase lean body mass in athletes, but their safety and potential contamination remain unclear.
Systematic ReviewSystematic Review of Safety of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators in Healthy Adults: Implications for Recreational Users
Recreational SARM use is strongly discouraged due to the risks of drug-induced liver injury, rhabdomyolysis, and tendon rupture.
Systematic ReviewAnalysis of supplements available to UK consumers purporting to contain Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators.
SARM supplements marketed online often contain inaccurate claims and discrepancies, posing a high risk to consumers due to uncertainty over dose and drug identity.
Deciphering the selective androgen receptor modulators paradigm
SARMs show promise in preclinical investigations and initial clinical trials, but long-term safety, tolerability, and efficacy studies are needed for their widespread clinical use.
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs): a novel approach to androgen therapy for the new millennium.
SARMs show promise in developing tissue-selective androgen therapies with improved efficacy and safety, potentially transforming androgen therapy for various male and female disorders.
Highly CitedConsiderations, 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
SARMs may not be a safer alternative to anabolic androgenic steroids due to potential contraindications and deleterious effects, and their use across various demographics remains controversial.
Literature ReviewImproving selective androgen receptor modulator discovery and preclinical evaluation
Investing in basic research could accelerate the discovery of more selective and safer SARMs, potentially treating an expanded range of clinical conditions.
Social media’s impact on widespread SARMs abuse
Social media misinformation may lead individuals to believe SARMs are safe, and healthcare providers and sports team members should educate themselves on the drug to prevent abuse.
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