SARMs
What Are SARMs? The Complete UK Guide to Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (2025)
Jul
What Are SARMs?
SARMs — Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators — are a class of research compounds that bind to androgen receptors in a tissue-selective manner. Unlike traditional anabolic steroids, which stimulate androgen receptors throughout the entire body (including the prostate, skin, scalp, and liver), SARMs are designed to target muscle and bone tissue preferentially, theoretically delivering the benefits of anabolic steroids with a significantly reduced side effect burden.
Developed originally to treat conditions like muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and hypogonadism, SARMs have become increasingly popular in the UK performance community as an alternative to traditional steroids.
How Do SARMs Work?
Androgen receptors are found throughout the body. When testosterone or anabolic steroids bind to these receptors, they trigger anabolic effects — but also androgenic effects in tissues like the prostate, skin, and hair follicles. SARMs work by binding to the same androgen receptors but inducing a different conformational change that varies by tissue type — essentially acting as an agonist in muscle and bone while being a partial agonist or antagonist elsewhere.
The Major SARMs Explained
Ostarine (MK-2866) — The Best Starting Point
The most studied and widely used SARM. Ostarine is excellent for muscle preservation during a caloric deficit and produces modest lean muscle gains. Standard dose: 15–25 mg/day for 8–12 weeks. Ideal for beginners.
RAD-140 (Testolone) — The Most Potent
RAD-140 has the highest anabolic-to-androgenic ratio of any SARM currently available (90:1 vs testosterone’s 100:100). Produces significant lean muscle gains, strength increases, and enhanced aggression in training. Dose: 10–20 mg/day for 8 weeks.
LGD-4033 (Ligandrol) — Best for Lean Bulk
The most suppressive SARM and one of the strongest for muscle gain. Often described as the SARM most similar to a low-dose testosterone cycle. Dose: 5–10 mg/day for 8 weeks.
Cardarine (GW-501516) — The Fat-Burning SARM
Technically not a SARM (it’s a PPAR-delta agonist) but universally grouped with them. Cardarine is exceptional for endurance and fat loss, with zero anabolic effects and no testosterone suppression. Popular in cutting stacks and with female athletes. Dose: 10–20 mg/day.
Available in our store: Viogen Cardarine GW501516 20mg x 50 Tabs.
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) — The Growth Hormone Secretagogue
Not a SARM but consistently sold alongside them. MK-677 mimics ghrelin and stimulates growth hormone release, improving sleep quality, recovery, muscle fullness, and fat loss over the medium-to-long term. No testosterone suppression. Dose: 15–25 mg/day.
Available in our store: Viogen MK-677 20mg x 50 Tabs.
SARMs vs Steroids: The Key Differences
This is the central question for most people considering SARMs. For a full breakdown, see our dedicated guide: SARMs vs Steroids — Which Should You Choose?
In brief: SARMs offer fewer side effects at the cost of less dramatic results. For users who want meaningful performance enhancement without the full hormonal impact of steroids like Dianabol or Trenbolone, SARMs occupy an attractive middle ground.
SARMs for Cutting vs Bulking
Different SARMs are better suited to different goals. Our dedicated guide covers this in detail: Best SARMs for Cutting vs Bulking.
Do SARMs Require PCT?
It depends on the compound, dose, and cycle length. Suppressive SARMs (RAD-140, LGD-4033, S23) typically require at least a mini-PCT with Nolvadex (20mg/day for 4 weeks). Less suppressive compounds like Ostarine at low doses may not require full PCT. MK-677 and Cardarine require no PCT.
Can Women Use SARMs?
Yes. SARMs are among the more female-friendly performance compounds. Ostarine, Cardarine, and MK-677 are particularly popular with female users as they carry minimal virilisation risk. Compared to Anavar, most SARMs are an even gentler option.
Legal Status in the UK
SARMs are not controlled substances under the UK Misuse of Drugs Act and are not currently prescription-only medicines (unlike anabolic steroids). They are sold legally as research chemicals. However, they are prohibited by WADA and all major sports governing bodies for competitive athletes.
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Disclaimer: SARMs are sold as research chemicals. For educational purposes only. Consult a medical professional before use.
📚 Related Pillar Guides: Testosterone Complete Guide • Peptides Complete Guide • HGH Complete Guide
