SARMs – Are They Legal
SARMs, or selective androgen receptor modulators, have become popular in the bodybuilding community because of their potential to build muscle mass and burn fat without the negative side effects associated with steroids. SARMs mimic the androgenic effects of testosterone but only bind to the androgen receptors in specific tissues such as the liver or muscle, which limits unwanted side effects like shrinking balls and gynecomastia.
In addition, SARMs may offer the benefit of increased bone density and a more rapid recovery time for injury and surgery. Because of these benefits, SARMs are being studied for the treatment of osteoporosis, hypogonadism, and wasting syndrome (loss of skeletal muscle due to illness or surgery).
While researchers are still exploring SARMs’ effectiveness, they have been able to create compounds that mimic the effects of steroids without the negative side effects. These include testolone, ostarine (Gtx Inc.), enobosarm (MK-2866), and Ligandrol (LGD-4033). Each compound has its own unique properties, but they all promote muscular growth, fat loss, and improved athletic performance.
The bottom line is that sarms are not legal, even though they have been developed and manufactured for use as drugs. They are being sold online by manufacturers who have taken advantage of a loophole in the law. Because they are categorized as research chemicals and not a dietary supplement, they can be sold as long as the seller states that the product is to be used only for research purposes.
This is a convenient way for bodybuilders and athletes to access these drugs, but it also puts them at risk of serious medical complications. Anyone interested in using SARMs should consult with their doctor for a prescription and obtain a therapeutic use exemption from USADA before pursuing their goals.