RAD 140, also known as Testolone, has garnered significant popularity within the bodybuilding community due to its remarkable ability to promote lean mass and provide lean, dry gains. In this discussion, we will see how it works, its potential benefits and uses, while also considering its side effects profile.
RAD 140 what is it?
RAD 140 belongs to the category of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs), a class of compounds designed to selectively target specific androgen receptors in the body. Within this category, RAD 140 has demonstrated considerable potential in promoting muscle growth, enhancing strength, and improving athletic performance.
How does it Work?
RAD 140 selectively binds to androgen receptors located in muscle and bone tissues. However, like most SARMs, this tissue selectivity diminishes at higher dosages. By stimulating androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, RAD 140 enhances protein synthesis, leading to improved muscle growth and enhanced bone density.
Due to its high selectivity for muscle and bone tissues, RAD 140 is believed to offer greater anabolic effects with fewer androgenic-related side effects compared to traditional steroids. However, it is important to note that practical application has shown that this might not always hold true, particularly at dosages commonly used in the bodybuilding community.
Benefits of RAD 140:
Hypertrophy: RAD 140 promotes the development of lean muscle mass, contributing to a defined and sculpted physique.
Improved Strength and Performance: RAD 140 improves strength levels and endurance, enabling users to push harder during workouts and experience increased stamina during prolonged training sessions. While it may not match the strength and mass gains of stronger SARMs like S23 or YK11, it is comparable to LGD 4033 in this regard.
Fat Loss: RAD 140 elevates the metabolic rate, allowing individuals to consume more calories during bulking phases without significant fat gain. This makes RAD 140 a suitable choice for cutting phases.
Faster Recovery: RAD 140 is believed to expedite the recovery process by supporting muscle repair and reducing muscle damage, leading to enhanced post-workout recovery.
Side Effects of RAD 140:
Negative effect on Blood Pressure: Some users may experience a drastic increase in resting blood pressure, even at lower dosages (e.g., 10mg per day).
Negative effects on Lipids: RAD 140 is known to negatively impact lipid levels in bloodwork.
Androgenic effects: Some users may encounter androgenic side effects, such as heightened aggression, increased libido, and hair loss.
Suppression of natural hormone production: RAD 140 can significantly suppress the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA), necessitating the use of a test base if running the compound for more than four weeks continuously. To know whether or not a PCT is needed when using RAD 140, I suggest checking this article RAD-140 and PCT: Everything you Should Know.
Lowered SHBG: RAD 140 can lower Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), leading to increased free testosterone. This effect may cause an unexpected “spillover” effect in individuals already supplementing with testosterone.
Liver related Toxicity: Anecdotally, RAD 140 has shown some liver toxicity, especially when used in bodybuilding dosages. Therefore, it is advisable not to use this compound continuously for more than 12 weeks.