Anabolic Talks

A common misconception is that SARMs don't cause testosterone suppression. This is often far from the truth, especially with stronger compounds like RAD-140 or S23. It's not "shutting you down" like anabolic steroids, but it can significantly suppress natural production. Let's have an open discussion about the science behind SARM suppression. What compounds are the most and least suppressive? What are the key indicators on a blood panel that show suppression? And what are the different approaches to PCT?

Great topic. The degree of suppression is directly related to the binding affinity and dose. Ostarine is generally considered the least suppressive, with something like LGD-4033 being more so, and RAD-140 and S23 being quite suppressive. The key indicators on a blood panel are Total Testosterone, Free Testosterone, LH, and FSH. You'll see a drop in all of them with suppressive SARMs.

I've seen many people underestimate this. The symptoms of suppression—lethargy, low libido, mood swings—are often attributed to other things. It's a mistake. A proper PCT with a SERM like Nolvadex or Clomid is not just for steroids; it's essential for anything that messes with your HPTA. The "Test Base" approach is also a popular one, but that's a more advanced protocol.

The biggest myth is that because it's not a steroid, it's "safe" and you don't need to worry. A SARM is a selective *androgen receptor modulator*. It still interacts with your hormones. Even with a mild SARM like Ostarine, a lack of libido is a common report. Ignoring suppression is a recipe for a bad post-cycle crash.

The "Test Base" mentioned by RecoveryRx is a great point. Some advanced users will run a SARM alongside a low-dose testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) protocol. This completely avoids suppression issues because you have a steady supply of exogenous testosterone. But this is a clinical, long-term commitment and not something to be taken lightly.

So it sounds like a proper PCT is a non-negotiable for most SARMs, and blood work is the only way to truly know the extent of the suppression. The "Test Base" approach is interesting but clearly not for the casual user. It seems the key is education and treating these compounds with respect.

Exactly. A common protocol for a basic SARM cycle PCT is to run Nolvadex at 20mg for 4 weeks. But again, blood work post-cycle will tell you if you need to extend it. Some people bounce back quickly, others take more time.

It's also worth mentioning that suppression can affect cortisol levels and overall well-being. It's not just about testosterone numbers on paper. The mental and physical effects of a suppressed HPTA can be quite unpleasant.

And don't forget the importance of a good diet and training regimen post-cycle. You need to keep up the effort to retain the gains and support your body's natural recovery.

Final thought: don't blindly trust advice from social media influencers who claim "no PCT needed." Do your own research and get blood work. It's the only responsible way.