SR9009 Vs. Cardarine: Everything You Need to Know

SR9009 and Cardarine are investigative nonsteroidal compounds of great interest to researchers because of their potential properties. The two are often lumped together with a class of compounds called Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMS) that have a different safety margin than steroids because of their selectivity for  androgen receptors.

Preliminary research in mammals has shown the potential of SR9009 in inducing wakefulness, increasing metabolism, and promoting muscle recovery. Similar research has also demonstrated the potential of cardarine in improving insulin sensitivity and thereby reducing body fat, improving endurance for physical training, and correcting fatty acid imbalances. 

Research into these compounds is limited so far, and like other SARMS for sale, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t approved either for human consumption. 

Both compounds are banned from many major sports leagues and sporting communities. Athletes should not participate in research or clinical trials with these products as they are for laboratory use only and tested for by most athletic leagues. 

Both are listed on the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) list of prohibited substances and considered as class S4 compounds “hormone and metabolic modulators.“ 

This article describes the properties, effects, benefits, and side effects of the two compounds. It will also answer another question: Are they even SARMs?

What Is SR9009?

SR9009, also known as Stenabolic, is not a “real” SARM, though it is often mistaken as one. It is instead a type of nootropic called REV-ERB agonists. REV-ERB proteins are found in the liver, muscles, and other areas of the body, and they promote wakefulness when there is a sleep pathology. 

REV-ERB proteins have also shown potential in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis in mouse models. In vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated SR9009’s potential in modulating different factors that help to build endurance for physical activity.

What Is Cardarine?

Cardarine, also known as GW501516, is not a “real” SARM, even though it’s marketed as such. It has a high affinity for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) with selectivity for PPARα and PPARγ. It was developed by Ligand Pharmaceuticals working in collaboration with GlaxoSmithKline, with an intention to investigate its potential effects on obesity, dyslipidemias, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Monkey studies have demonstrated Cardarine’s potential in improving cardiovascular function.

The Major Differences Between SR9009 Vs. Cardarine

The FDA considers SR9009 and Cardarine investigational compounds and has not approved them as supplements. Researchers continue to explore the properties of these two compounds, which appear to be quite similar. They have several differences that make their applications quite different, though, including:

• The half-life of Cardarine is 24 hours, while that of SR9009 is four to five hours. This means Stenabolic is eliminated from the body much faster. 
• Cardarine has been studied more than Stenabolic and is currently in phase II clinical trials. No human trials have been performed with SR9009.
• Cardarine is a PPAR agonist, while Stenabolic is a REV-ERB agonist.
• Both compounds may help to build endurance, but Cardarine appears to have greater potential in this area according to research.
• Cardarine is more potent on a per milligram basis.
• Stenabolic is more expensive than Cardarine. 
• Cardarine has more potent anti-inflammatory capabilities.

The points above demonstrate how different the two compounds are. Researchers will hopefully learn more about these compounds as their studies continue, but some possible side effects have already been noted.