RAD-140: The Anavar of SARMs

RAD-140, also known as Testolone, is one of the most powerful Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) on the market. Originally developed as a potential treatment for conditions like muscle wasting and osteoporosis, RAD-140 has gained immense popularity among bodybuilders and athletes for its potent anabolic effects and relatively mild side-effect profile compared to similarly-potent anabolic steroids.

Mechanism of Action: Highly Selective AR Binding

RAD-140 binds selectively to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues. This selective activation stimulates anabolic activity in these areas without significantly affecting other tissues like the prostate or sebaceous glands.

What sets RAD-140 apart is its exceptionally high anabolic-to-androgenic ratio. In preclinical studies, it demonstrated anabolic effects comparable to testosterone with fewer androgenic side effects like prostate growth (Srinath et al., 2013).

Benefits of RAD-140

Rapid Muscle Growth

RAD-140 is renowned for its ability to promote significant increases in lean muscle mass. Users often report noticeable gains within weeks of starting a cycle, making it an excellent choice for lean bulking phases.

Strength Enhancement

One of RAD-140’s standout features is its ability to dramatically increase strength and power output. Athletes frequently use it to push through plateaus and achieve new personal records in weightlifting and other performance-oriented activities. This is one of the most popular SARMs amongst powerlifters and crossfit athletes.

Improved Aesthetics

While not a primary fat-burning agent, RAD-140’s anabolic properties help users retain muscle mass during calorie deficits while enhancing vascularity, muscle hardness and pumps. This makes it a valuable addition to cutting cycles, where achieving the most aesthetic look possible is crucial.

Neuroprotective Benefits

RAD-140 has shown neuroprotective properties in preclinical studies, meaning it may protect brain cells from damage and degeneration (Minireview of Preclinical Data on Testolone, 2010). This potential benefit sets it apart from other SARMs and steroids, which often carry risks of neurotoxicity.

Minimal Water Retention

Unlike many anabolic steroids, RAD-140 does not cause significant water retention. This ensures that the gains achieved during a cycle are primarily lean muscle, contributing to a more defined and aesthetic physique.

Potential Side Effects

Although RAD-140 is generally well-tolerated, higher doses or prolonged use can lead to side effects, including:

• Testosterone Suppression: RAD-140 can suppress natural testosterone production, particularly at higher doses. A proper Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) regimen is necessary to restore hormonal balance.
• Mild Liver Toxicity: RAD-140 is not methylated but may still cause mild liver enzyme elevations in some users. Liver support supplements are recommended during cycles.
• Dyslipidemia: Changes in lipid profiles, such as reduced HDL cholesterol, have been observed with SARMs, including RAD-140.
• Hair Loss and Acne: Though less common, androgen receptor activation can occasionally lead to androgenic effects like hair thinning or acne in individuals predisposed to these conditions.
• Long-Term Effects Unknown: As a relatively new compound, the long-term safety profile of RAD-140 remains under investigation, emphasizing the need for cautious use.

Recommended Dosage and Cycle Length

RAD-140 is typically dosed at 10 to 20 mg per day. Anecdotal data shows that taking more than 20mg per day tends to cause diminishing returns.

• For Bulking: 15-20 mg per day to maximize muscle growth.
• For Cutting: 10 mg per day is enough to preserve lean muscle mass while reducing body fat.

Cycles generally last 6–8 weeks. Due to its 60-hour half-life, RAD-140 can be taken once daily or even once every 2 days.

PCT is strongly recommended after any SARM cycle, and RAD-140 is no exception as its suppressive effects on testosterone can be significant at higher doses or longer durations.

RAD-140 (Testolone) is one of the most potent SARMs available, offering unparalleled benefits for muscle growth, strength, and performance enhancement. Its high anabolic-to-androgenic ratio and minimal side-effect profile make it a popular choice for athletes and bodybuilders looking to take their physique and performance training to the next level.

References

• Srinath, R., et al. (2013). Preclinical Studies of RAD-140: A Novel Nonsteroidal Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 56(9), 4001–4010. https://doi.org/10.1021/jm400117d

• Minireview of Preclinical Data on Testolone. (2010). Neuroprotective Properties of SARMs. Endocrine Society’s Annual Meeting Abstracts. https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2010-1178

• Dalton, J. T., Taylor, R. P., Mohler, M. L., & Steiner, M. S. (2011). Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Progress and Potential. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 89(1), 44–53. Dalton, J. T., Taylor, R. P., Mohler, M. L., & Steiner, M. S. (2011). Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Progress and Potential. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 89(1), 44–53. https://doi.org/10.1038/clpt.2010.215