Mechanism and side effect of stestolone

RAD140, also known as testolone, is a new investigational drug which has become popular among bodybuilders, who claim that it has muscle-building effects. RAD140 belongs to a class of compounds called selective androgen receptor modulators, or SARMs.

Mechanism of Action

Testolone works by selectively stimulating androgen receptors in the body. It targets receptors in the muscle and bone and has had little to no observed effect on the reproductive organs.

This compound stimulates muscle growth by promoting the development of muscle cells and proteins.

The selective ability of SARMs is not fully understood yet. According to some researchers, they may target and selectively activate different proteins than testosterone. This results in only certain androgen receptors – mainly in the muscles – being activated.

Uses

The chemical structure of RAD140 is very different from the structure of steroid hormones like testosterone. Thus, the pathways that convert testosterone into other hormones (like estrogen) cannot act on testolone.

Testolone is used to increase energy, improve athletic performance, increase muscle growth, and for other uses, but there is no good scientific evidence to support its use. Testolone might also be unsafe.

Clinical trials

The first-in-human study was initiated in October of 2017 and completed in September 2020 in postmenopausal women with breast cancer.

In early 2020 a single case report of drug-induced liver injury following use of RAD 140 was published.

Side effects

Side effects commonly reported by users include temporary hair loss, decreased sex drive, and mood changes. Like all SARMs, RAD140 is banned (and actively screened for) in professional sports.