What is Ostarine?
Ostarine (MK-2866) is one of the most common types of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) – a class of chemical compound that has the potential to treat multiple diseases, as well as help with strength, muscle mass and endurance. Ostarine, also known as enobosarm or MK-2866, was developed in 1997 by a pharmaceutical company, and has been the subject of multiple medical trials, as well as some controversy in professional sports. It is now widely used as a safer alternative to anabolic steroids.
How does Ostarine works?
As with all androgen drugs, ostarine works by targeting the androgen receptors in the body – the mechanism by which the body absorbs and responds to hormones. The beauty of selective receptor modulators is that they can target different tissues differently, and so a drug like ostarine can be used to create a specific hormonal response from individual tissue groups, while leaving others alone. The tissues that respond to ostarine act much as they would with exposure to testosterone. The selective nature of ostarine makes it one of the safest androgen drugs available, with minimal side effects and nominal testosterone suppression.
Major benefits of Ostarine?
Ostarine can be useful for a range of purposes, including:
Building muscle mass
As ostarine mimics the effects of testosterone on muscles, it has much the same result: an increase in protein synthesis and nitrogen retention in muscle cells, increasing muscle building capacity. It also protects existing muscle mass against calorie deficits – perfect for those looking for body recomposition rather than pure weight loss.
Losing weight
However, for those looking to lose weight, ostarine can still be very useful. It is known to improve lean body mass rather than simply adding muscular bulk; it does this by converting existing stored fat into energy, thereby reducing fat while protecting muscle. A decrease in body fat and an increase in lean muscle combine to affect powerful weight loss results.
Increasing endurance
As ostarine acts like testosterone in the body, building muscle mass and increasing strength, it also has the effect of improving athletic endurance. Those taking ostarine record higher stamina, and clinical research shows that it is the single best SARM for endurance.
Aiding injury recovery
Taking ostarine increases bone density, ligament health, tendon strength and collagen turnover. This not only helps to prevent injuries in the first place, but also means recovery from an injury (or training) is expedited. This allows athletes to remain in form and be more resilient than their competitors.
Improving general health
As well as the training-specific benefits of ostarine, there are also some very positive overall health benefits. Research shows that taking ostarine improves the physical health and muscular ability of the elderly, repairs the damage of osteoporosis, prevents muscle wasting in the seriously ill, aids with fat loss, and lacks the serious side effects that many other anabolic or androgenic steroids can cause.
Buying and using ostarine
When purchasing and using ostarine, it is crucial to be aware of the purity and concentration. Some SARM manufacturers use fillers that reduce potency and introduce unnecessary ingredients.
To achieve the best results and benefits of ostarine, SARM cycles should be on the order of six to eight weeks, and ostarine is particularly convenient as it can be taken orally. A post cycle therapy of at least two weeks is recommended for all SARMs, including ostarine, to ensure the body’s natural testosterone production recovers. By following these guidelines for proper use, ostarine supplements can be a prudent and effective way to improve your body’s performance.