In the never-ending quest for physical perfection and optimal performance, pro bodybuilders, elite athletes and regular Joe’s will always seek new and innovative ways to get ahead.

Among the array of every-more popular performance-enhancing compounds, made attractive by social media and more accessible through online chemists, stand Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) have gained notable attention for the perceived promise of providing many of the physique and performance benefits of anabolic steroids with few or none of the side-effects.

Of these next-generation of synthetic compounds the S23 SARM has found a willing audience for its potent anabolic effects of delivering not only more lean muscle mass but also reducing body-fat levels.

But is the S23 SARM really safe with no drawbacks? And is it legal? Here’s what you need to know about this most popular of new performance-boosting compounds.

What is S23 SARM?

S23 is a non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator, designed to mimic the effects of testosterone. SARMs are engineered to selectively bind to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, stimulating anabolic activity without the widespread effects on other organs associated with traditional anabolic steroids.

Originally developed for medical applications such as treating muscle wasting and osteoporosis, S23 has gained popularity in the fitness community for its muscle-building and fat-reducing properties.

The compound demonstrated significant anabolic effects with minimal androgenic side effects compared to traditional steroids, according to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.

Does S23 SARM go by other names?

Yes, S23 is also referred to by its developmental code name, C-6. It is sometimes written as its full chemical name – (2S)-N-(4-cyano-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4-cyanophenoxy)-2-hydroxy-2-methylpropanamide – in scientific literature or by chemistry students trying to hit their word count. However, S23 remains the most commonly used name in both research and user communities.

What does S23 SARM do?

S23 primarily promotes lean muscle mass gain and fat loss by binding to androgen receptors with high affinity and specificity. It enhances protein synthesis, leading to increased muscle hypertrophy and strength. Users often report substantial gains in muscle density and improved physical performance.

It has also been shown to reduce total fat mass by increasing basal metabolic rate and promoting lipolysis. In a rodent study on castrated male rats, S23 increased lean body mass and decreased fat mass significantly over a 12-week period.

Is S23 safe?

The safety profile of S23 is a matter of ongoing research and debate. While early studies suggest that S23 may be safer than traditional anabolic steroids due to its selective action, it is not without risks.

Potential side effects and the lack of long-term safety data raise concerns. A critical review published in the Drug Development Research journal highlighted the need for more comprehensive human trials to fully understand the safety implications of S23 use.

Are there side-effects to S23 use?

Yes, S23 can have several side effects. Commonly reported adverse effects include suppression of natural testosterone production, which can lead to hormonal imbalances and potential infertility. Users may also experience increased aggression, mood swings and liver toxicity.

The rodent study mentioned about caused significant suppression of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), impacting natural testosterone levels in the male rats.

Long-term effects on human health remain unclear, so caution and further research is needed.

Is S23 SARM legal?

The legal status of S23 varies by country. In the United States, it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human consumption and is classified as a research chemical. It is illegal to sell or market S23 for human use. In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has similar restrictions.

It is also banned by major sports organisations, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), making it prohibited for athletes in competitive sports.

Therefore, while S23 SARM presents an attractive option for those seeking significant muscle growth and fat loss, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and legal considerations. As with any performance-enhancing compound, informed decision-making and a thorough understanding of the substance are crucial.