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Do SARMs raise blood pressure?

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If you’re thinking about using SARMs (Selective Androgenic Receptor Modulators) to boost your athletic performance or build muscle, it’s natural to wonder: “do SARMs raise blood pressure and cause other side effects?”

It’s no secret that while SARMs come with promising muscle-building benefits, there’s also the flip side of potential side effects, including how they might impact your blood pressure.

So, do SARMs really affect blood pressure? The straightforward answer is: it depends. There are several factors at play here – which we will discuss completely in this article. Let’s get started!

💡Key Summary

  • Certain potent SARMs like RAD-140 and LGD-4033 can elevate blood pressure, especially with excessive use, due to their strong androgenic effects.  📈
  • SARMs such as Ostarine (MK-2866) and Andarine (S4) are considered milder and have lower risks of significantly affecting blood pressure compared to stronger alternatives. 💪
  • Strict adherence to recommended dosage ranges is crucial to minimize risks. Monitoring health parameters, including regular blood pressure checks and liver function tests, is recommended. 🛡️
  • Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals who understand performance-enhancing substances can provide valuable insights and help manage potential risks effectively. 🩺
  • Incorporating post-cycle therapy (PCT) to restore natural hormone levels and taking breaks between SARMs cycles are essential for maintaining long-term health and mitigating potential side effects. 🌱

Table of Contents

SARMs in bodybuilding

Do SARMs raise blood pressure for bodybuilders?

SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) have been around since 1998, but before they became popularly used as performance enhancing drugs (PEDs), they were first recognized as research chemicals aimed at treating medical concerns such as osteoporosis, muscular dystrophy, prostate cancer, cachexia (wasting syndrome), breast cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease, among others.

As SARMs have been studied more extensively in clinical trials, their ability to stimulate muscle growth and increase bone density are what increasingly attracted people’s interest. Evidently, overtime, this has led to their widespread use in recreational pursuits such as bodybuilding.

Despite this, it’s important to note that SARMs have been banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in 2008, and therefore, cannot be used for enhancing athletic performance in any competitive sports.

Of course, you may still choose to use SARMs if your goal is solely to enhance your physique. However, exercising extra caution is strongly advised since there have been numerous reports from users on their side effects.

It’s best to conduct thorough research on the SARM you’re considering and seek guidance from a healthcare professional before anything else.

How do SARMs work in the body?

SARMs mechanism of action in the human body

Before we discuss how SARMs might affect your blood pressure—which can vary based on different factors—it’s important to understand how they actually work.

As you may know, SARMs function by specifically activating the androgen receptor. This targeted action enhances bone density and lean muscle mass, with limited influence on reproductive tissues.

Because of its mechanism of action, it slowly became a more preferable option than traditional anabolic steroids which are known to have a more significant impact on reproductive organs and can cause more serious health risks.

Do SARMs raise your blood pressure?

Concerned bodybuilder thinking about do sarms raise blood pressure?

As previously mentioned, it completely depends on several factors, and one of which is the excessive use of SARMs.

According to several anecdotal reports, SARMs can contribute to adverse cardiovascular events. It may increase blood pressure, especially when overdosed. Therefore, users must be wary of exceeding the recommended dosage for their chosen SARM.

Another important consideration is the individual’s overall health and their susceptibility to potential side effects. This highlights that the effects of SARMs can vary widely from person to person, and suggests seeking guidance from a healthcare professional before using these substances.

Lastly, the effects of SARMs also depend on where you purchase them from. It’s crucial to exercise caution when buying SARMs because not all sellers are reputable or offer reliable products.

This being said, opt for well-known manufacturers with positive testimonials and established reputations, such as Swiss Chems, which has been in the industry for years.

What are SARMs that raise your blood pressure?

Perhaps you’ve heard that certain SARMs are more potent than others, and thus, can potentially pose a higher risk of increasing your blood pressure. 

While this may be true, the specific impact on blood pressure can still vary depending on dosage, individual health factors, and other variables.

Nevertheless, here is a list of high-potency SARMs that you should approach with caution if you’re concerned about blood pressure:

While highly potent and known for its strong anabolic effects, it is most favored for its ability to promote muscle mass and improve physical performance. Users practice extra caution when taking this SARM as it has shown to impact androgen levels, which may indirectly increase blood pressure.

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Similar to RAD-140, it is potent and popular for its ability to rapidly increase muscle mass. Although such an effect has been found to potentially impact blood pressure, especially during strenuous activities.

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This substance stands out not only for its ability to stimulate muscle growth but also for its unique efficacy to promote a leaner, sculpted physique. While direct studies on S-23’s effects on blood pressure are limited, like other potent SARMs, its action on androgen receptors suggests potential indirect effects on cardiovascular function.

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What are SARMs that don’t raise your blood pressure?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct answer regarding which types of SARMs won’t increase your blood pressure. However, there are some SARMs on the market today that are known for being milder and safer options compared to others.

Here is a quick list of them for your reference:

Often considered one of the mildest SARMs, Ostarine exhibits minimal androgenic activity and has a relatively low risk of side effects. Like any other selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) out there, it works by selectively targeting androgen receptors in muscle tissue and bones, without significantly affecting other tissues or hormone levels. It is regarded as the safest choice for both women and new users.

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Known for its moderate potency, Andarine is generally well-tolerated with fewer androgenic side effects compared to stronger SARMs like RAD-140 or LGD-4033. It is considered one of the safest options after Ostarine.

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Although not a SARM but often used alongside them, Cardarine is renowned for its metabolic and endurance-enhancing properties. It works by activating PPARδ receptors, which regulate genes involved in energy expenditure and lipid metabolism. Its ability to improve cardiovascular endurance without altering testosterone levels or causing androgenic side effects positions it as a mild and beneficial supplement in fitness routines.

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SARMs side effects

Many fitness enthusiasts sometimes focus too much on the benefits of SARMs, that they fail to realize the dangers when taken improperly.

There have been multiple safety concerns regarding the health risks of using SARMs. It’s also not surprising how the Anti-Doping Agency, several clinical studies, and research have stressed its negative effects on active users, especially those in the bodybuilding or fitness community.

In this section, we have listed them down sequentially for your review:

1. Sexual Dysfunction or Erectile Dysfunction for Males

SARMs can cause testosterone suppression in males. Testosterone is crucial for maintaining libido and erectile function. When SARMs disrupt testosterone levels, it can lead to sexual dysfunction, including reduced libido and erectile dysfunction.

2. Liver Toxicity

Some SARMs have been associated with liver toxicity. This means they can potentially damage liver cells or impair liver function when used improperly or in high doses. It can manifest as elevated liver enzymes in blood tests, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), or even more severe liver damage in extreme cases.

3. Male Pattern Baldness

Certain SARMs can increase the risk of male pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). This condition is characterized by hair thinning or loss, typically starting from the temples and crown of the head. It occurs due to the hormonal changes caused by SARMs, particularly affecting individuals who are genetically predisposed to baldness.

4. Increased Cholesterol 

SARMs can alter lipid metabolism, leading to an increase in cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol (often referred to as “bad” cholesterol). Elevated cholesterol levels are a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as getting a heart attack or experiencing high blood pressure (hypertension).

5. Insulin Resistance

This occurs when cells in the body become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. SARMs can disrupt insulin sensitivity, potentially leading to such conditions. It is also associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

SARMs proper usage

Selecting between different SARM capsule options

The most effective approach to reduce or entirely prevent side effects while using SARMs is to ensure proper usage and adherence to the recommended dosage. That being said, here, we’ve listed some tips to guide you on the proper use of SARMs.

1. Do Post Cycle Therapy

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is recommended when taking SARMS primarily to restore natural testosterone levels and maintain overall health post-cycle. To note, SARMS are known for their selective action on androgen receptors, which can lead to suppression of testosterone in the body. During a SARMS cycle, the body may interpret the presence of exogenous SARMS as sufficient testosterone levels, thereby reducing its own production. This suppression can result in potential side effects such as fatigue, mood swings, and loss of libido once the SARMS cycle ends.

2. Monitor Liver Health

Regular monitoring of liver enzymes and overall liver health is crucial when using SARMs. While SARMs are generally considered less hepatotoxic compared to anabolic steroids, some individuals may still experience liver enzyme elevation. This can be influenced by factors such as the specific SARM used, dosage, duration of use, and individual health factors. Consulting with a healthcare provider and getting periodic liver function tests can help mitigate potential risks and ensure early detection of any issues.

3. Stay within Recommended Dosage Ranges

It’s essential to adhere strictly to recommended dosage ranges when using SARMs. Exceeding these ranges does not necessarily lead to better results and can increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects. Each SARM has its own dosage guidelines based on its potency and intended use. Starting at the lower end of the dosage range and gradually increasing if necessary, while closely monitoring for any adverse effects, is a prudent approach.

4. Consider Stacking with Caution

Stacking refers to combining multiple SARMs or other compounds during a cycle to achieve synergistic effects. While stacking can potentially enhance results, it also increases complexity and the risk of side effects. If you choose to stack SARMs, research each compound thoroughly, understand their individual effects and potential interactions, and start with conservative dosages. Staggering the start dates of different SARMs within the stack can also help assess tolerance and manage any adverse effects that may arise.

5. Take Adequate Breaks Between Cycles

Allowing sufficient time off between SARMs cycles is crucial for maintaining long-term health and minimizing potential side effects. Prolonged use without breaks can lead to increased suppression of natural testosterone production and other hormonal imbalances. The duration of breaks should ideally be at least as long as the previous cycle, allowing the body to recover fully. During these breaks, focus on supporting overall wellness through maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, and regular exercise.

6. Educate Yourself and Seek Professional Guidance

Allowing sufficient time off between SARMs cycles is crucial for maintaining long-term health and minimizing potential side effects. Prolonged use without breaks can lead to increased suppression of natural testosterone production and other hormonal imbalances. The duration of breaks should ideally be at least as long as the previous cycle, allowing the body to recover fully. During these breaks, focus on supporting overall wellness through maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, and regular exercise.

7. Practice Careful Stacking with other Bodybuilding Supplements

Stacking SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) with other bodybuilding supplements can be done, but it’s important to approach it with caution and thorough research. Many bodybuilders and athletes combine SARMs with supplements like protein powders (such as whey protein) to support muscle recovery and growth, creatine for strength gains, pre-workout supplements for increased energy, and multivitamins to ensure overall health. When stacking supplements, it’s crucial to consider compatibility and avoid conflicting ingredients or effects.

The Pros and Cons of Taking Liquid SARMs

SARM 💊 Recommended Dosage 📏 Best Time to Take 🕣

Ostarine

10-25mg/day

Any time, Once a day

Andarine

25-50mg/day, split doses

Multiple times/day (4-hour half-life)

Testolone

10-20mg/day

Morning/Earlier in the day

Myostine

5-15mg/day

Away from food (10-12 hour half-life)

Ligandrol

5-10mg/day

Any time, Once a day

Cardarine

10-20mg/day

Any time

Stenabolic

10-30mg/day, split doses

Multiple times/day (4-5 hour half-life)

For more detailed guidance on the recommended dosage of each SARM, click here.

Note: Improper stacking of supplements, including SARMs, can lead to negative drug interactions and potential health issues. Drug abuse, especially when combined with other substances like stimulants or hormones, may amplify side effects such as liver injury, imbalance in sex hormones, and an increased risk of high blood pressure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of SARMs for muscle building and performance enhancement presents potential benefits but also carries significant risks, including the impact on blood pressure.

The effects of SARMs on blood pressure can vary widely depending on factors such as the specific compound used, dosage, individual health, and overall usage practices. While some SARMs may pose a higher risk of increasing blood pressure, others are considered milder options.

It’s crucial for individuals considering SARMs to conduct thorough research, adhere strictly to recommended dosages, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals to minimize potential adverse effects and ensure safe usage.

You also have the option to explore more natural alternatives. These include focusing on a diet rich in lean proteins, which supports muscle growth and repair. Additionally, dietary supplements like creatine and whey protein can complement a balanced diet to enhance athletic performance and muscle development.

FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

SARMs can potentially impact cardiovascular health, including increasing blood pressure and affecting heart function, especially with misuse or excessive doses.

Yes, some SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulator) can alter lipid metabolism, potentially leading to increased cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol).

Comparing SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) and Androgenic Anabolic Steroids is complex and depends on individual goals, preferences, and risks. SARMs are selective in their action on androgen receptors, potentially offering targeted effects with fewer side effects compared to traditional steroids, which affect multiple tissues including the prostate and hair follicles. However, steroids may provide more rapid and dramatic muscle growth. 

Yes, SARMs can disrupt natural testosterone biosynthesis, which may lead to hormonal imbalances and consequently cause erectile problems in males.

Prolonged use of SARMs can suppress natural androgen synthesis, but with proper usage and post-cycle therapy, testosterone can be recovered over time.

Ostarine (MK-2866) is generally considered one of the milder SARMs with fewer reported side effects, including minimal impact on blood pressure compared to more potent SARMs.

SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are primarily used for research purposes; however, they have become popular for their fat-burning and lean muscle hypertrophy properties. Studies on their chemical structure show that they have high oral bioavailability, allowing them to reach targeted areas such as skeletal muscle more effectively.

The legality of SARMs varies by country. In many places, including the United States, they are not approved for human consumption and are classified as research chemicals or not for human use. SARMs are also prohibited for use in sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). They are classified as prohibited substances under the category of “other anabolic agents” on the World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List. Athletes found using SARMs can face serious consequences, including sanctions and suspensions from competition.

SARMs  (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are often perceived as having a more targeted action on muscle and bone tissue with potentially fewer side effects on reproductive organs compared to traditional anabolic steroids. However, their long-term safety and efficacy compared to steroids remain a topic of debate and ongoing research.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided above is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek your physician’s advice or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or read.We bear no responsibility or liability for your use of any compound. 

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