RAD 140 vs. Ostarine: Benefits, Side Effects, and Other Essential Information

Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are a novel class of nonsteroidal drugs currently being investigated by multiple research institutions. These substances are tissue-selective, meaning they have the unique ability to target the androgen receptors in some tissues without impacting others. 

Researchers state they aim to cause those tissues to respond as they would to testosterone while avoiding undesirable side effects.

It’s important to note that SARMs have been banned by anti-doping agencies and most athletic authorities due to their potential to help build lean muscle mass. Athletes should not participate in clinical research with SARMs. 

This guide will cover everything you need to know about two common SARMs, RAD 140 vs. Ostarine, where they are in clinical trials, potential side effects, and the potential benefits researchers are currently studying. 

The Differences Between RAD 140 and Ostarine

RAD 140 (Testolone) and Ostarine (MK-2866) are two similar SARMs but also have significant differences. Here is what you need to know about the two compounds: 

• Ostarine is the most widely researched SARM with multiple phase II clinical trials. RAD 140 has had only one phase I study.
• RAD 140 is stronger on a milligram to milligram level.
• Ostarine is known to have milder side effects and lower androgenic properties as indicated by the clinical trials and mice studies.
• Ostarine has displayed connective tissue healing properties in vitro
• RAD 140 has shown evidence of cognitive benefits and has been studied in relation to Alzheimer’s Disease. 
• Most athletic and anti-doping agencies have banned both of these substances. 
• RAD 140 is more expensive than Ostarine. 

Both RAD 140 and Ostarine are currently undergoing trials testing their influence related to: Alzheimer’s, breast and prostate cancer, muscle wasting, osteoporosis, incontinence, and more.

The FDA hasn’t approved either drug for human consumption, they are for laboratory research, like other SARMs for sale at this time, but ongoing research may help prove their efficacy. 

The Potential Side Effects of RAD 140 & Ostarine 

Because both RAD 140 and Ostarine are still undergoing extensive clinical testing, the potential side effects of human consumption are not yet known which is why they are not FDA approved— especially long-term side effects. Researchers are currently testing the following possible side effects, however: 

Their Effect On Natural Testosterone Levels

SARMs work differently than anabolic steroids, but researchers are studying if they cause suppressed natural testosterone levels. Suppressed natural testosterone levels can cause side effects such as erectile dysfunction, loss of bone density, muscle weakness, insomnia, weight gain, depression, increased body fat, and hair loss. 

Potential Severe Side Effects 

In 2017 the FDA published a Public Health Advisory stating, “Life-threatening reactions, including liver toxicity, have occurred in people taking products containing SARMs. 

SARMs also have the potential to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, and the long-term effects on the body are unknown.” Some researchers have also found that SARMs can cause GI issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Unknown Drug Reactions 

Because of the limited research currently available on SARMS, their potential interactions with other medications and drugs, including alcohol, are unknown. 

Despite the possibility of adverse side effects, both RAD 140 and Ostarine show incredible potential in a clinical setting. Additional research will be required before a clear link between these substances and their side effects or benefits can be identified. If you are interested in participating SARMs research, be sure to purchase products from a reliable source.

Understanding the Benefits Researchers are Studying for RAD 140 and Ostarine

All SARMs have potential risks as well as side effects. Because the FDA has not yet approved these compounds for human consumption, they can only be used for research purposes. It is illegal to label them as dietary supplements. However, you can purchase them in liquid or powder form for research use only. 

Here’s what to know about their potential benefits:

Benefits of RAD 140 Under Study 

SARMs research is ongoing, and researchers are studying many potential benefits of RAD 140. Multiple studies concerning its use against Alzheimer’s and breast cancer have found that: 

• It appears to protect the prostate from androgens.
• RAD 140 may lower LDL and triglycerides in some subjects.
• It was safer than testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in rats.
• It may have neuroprotective and cognitive benefits. 
• RAD 140 increased lean muscle mass in some primates.

RAD 140 is still undergoing phase I clinical trials and has not yet entered phase II. As research continues, it’s possible that further positive and negative effects will be discovered. 

Benefits of Ostarine Researchers Are Studying

Ostarine is much more widely researched than RAD 140. In fact, it is the most thoroughly studied SARM to date and considered by researchers as one of the best sarms to complete a study on for its vast amount of data collected to date. Recent studies have shown evidence of the following potential benefits: 

• An increase in lean muscle mass and athletic performance.
• Potential for enhanced bone and connective tissue healing, according to one study performed on rats.
• Possible improved weight loss through decreased bodyfat, increased energy, and enhanced recovery .

Also, researchers suspect Ostarine vs RAD 140 is less suppressive to natural testosterone production, and also when compared to most other SARMs. 

If you are interested in participating in research with SARMs, make sure that you’re sourcing them from a trusted supplier. Many products on the market claiming to contain SARMs don’t actually have any SARMs in them.

One 2017 study found only 52% of 44 tested products bought online contained SARMs, for example, and that nearly 10% of these products contained no active chemical at all. 

To guarantee the quality of these compounds, SARM suppliers should have well-established quality control procedures. At Sports Technology Labs, we use American third-party labs to test our products and guarantee a minimum purity of 98%. Quality matters when performing personal research on such substances.