Compound Glossary
SARMs
Andarine (S-4)
Andarine (S-4) is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) developed by GTx, Inc. It was originally designed to treat muscle wasting diseases and osteoporosis. However, due to its anabolic and androgenic effects, it has gained popularity amongst bodybuilders and athletes. Andarine promotes lean muscle mass growth, bone strength, and fat loss. The compound is considered to be less potent than other SARMs and is known for its minimal side effects. However, its use can lead to temporary vision disturbances due to its affinity for ocular androgen receptors.
Ostarine (MK-2866 or Enobosarm)
Ostarine, also known as MK-2866 or Enobosarm, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that was initially developed by the pharmaceutical company Merck and later GTx, Inc. It was designed to treat muscle wasting diseases, osteoporosis and other conditions related to muscle loss. Ostarine is known for its ability to promote lean muscle growth, increase bone strength, and enhance physical stamina, making it a favorite among bodybuilders and athletes for performance enhancement. Despite being non-steroidal, Ostarine can offer some of the benefits of anabolic steroids with lower risks of harmful side effects. It is typically taken orally.
Ligandrol (LGD-4033)
Ligandrol, also known as LGD-4033, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that was developed by Ligand Pharmaceuticals and is currently being researched by Viking Therapeutics. It was initially created to treat conditions like muscle wasting diseases, age-related muscle loss, osteoporosis, and cancer. Ligandrol is popular among athletes and bodybuilders for its ability to enhance muscle mass and strength without the negative side effects often associated with steroidal drugs. It’s taken orally and is considered one of the most potent SARMs, offering substantial muscle gain and fat loss.
Testolone (RAD-140)
Testolone, also known as RAD-140, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) initially developed by Radius Health, Inc. The compound was designed to treat conditions like muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and breast cancer. Testolone is well-known in the fitness community due to its potent anabolic effects, it significantly boosts muscle growth and strength. Unlike anabolic steroids, it selectively targets muscle and bone cells resulting in fewer side effects. Nonetheless, as a powerful substance, it requires post-cycle therapy to prevent potential hormone imbalance. It is typically taken orally.
YK-11
YK-11 is a synthetic steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). However, its mechanism is unique because it partially activates androgen receptors, leading it to be classified as a myostatin inhibitor. It was developed to treat muscle wasting disorders, but it’s widely used by bodybuilders for its ability to significantly enhance muscle growth beyond genetic capabilities by inhibiting the production of myostatin, a protein that limits muscle growth. Though it has anabolic effects similar to steroids, YK-11 is thought to produce fewer side effects. However, its safety profile is less understood due to limited clinical studies, and hence, it’s considered to be a more experimental compound compared to other SARMs.
Cardarine (GW-501516)
Cardarine, also known as GW-501516, is a PPARΞ΄ receptor agonist developed in a collaboration between GlaxoSmithKline and Ligand Pharmaceuticals. Originally, it was developed to treat obesity, diabetes, lipid strain, and heart health problems. Although often grouped with selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs), Cardarine is technically not a SARM. It’s popular among athletes and bodybuilders due to its ability to burn fat, increase endurance, and improve recovery times, without the typical harmful effects of steroids. However, it has been linked to cancer during animal testing, leading to its clinical development being discontinued. Despite the controversy, it is still widely used in the fitness community.
Ibutamoren (MK-677)
Ibutamoren, also known as MK-677, is a non-peptidic, potent, long-acting, orally-active, and selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor and a growth hormone secretagogue, mimicking the growth hormone-stimulating action of the endogenous hormone ghrelin. It has been developed by Merck & Co. to treat conditions such as growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis. It’s particularly known for its ability to increase levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) without affecting cortisol levels. Ibutamoren is popular within the fitness industry for its potential to increase lean body mass, reduce fat, improve bone density, and enhance sleep and cognitive function. However, due to its potent effects, it may cause side effects like increased appetite, lower insulin sensitivity, and elevated blood sugar levels.
S-23
S-23 is a non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) originally developed by GTx. The compound has been researched as a potential male hormonal contraceptive due to its ability to suppress and reduce sperm production while also shrinking the size of the testes. It is popular among bodybuilders and athletes for its ability to promote muscle growth, increase bone density, and decrease fat mass. Compared to other SARMs, S-23 is known for its higher potency but also for its potential side effects, which may include testosterone suppression. As of now, S-23 is not approved for use in humans and is sold as a research chemical.
ACP-105
ACP-105 is a non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), originally developed by Acadia Pharmaceuticals. It was initially designed for the treatment of conditions such as osteoporosis, muscle wasting, and benign prostatic hypertrophy. ACP-105 is considered one of the most potent SARMs and is comparable in strength to testosterone but without the same level of side effects often associated with anabolic steroid use. It is popular in the fitness and bodybuilding community for its properties of promoting lean muscle growth and strength improvement. However, it is still under research and not approved for medical use, hence considered a performance-enhancing drug.
AC-262,356
AC-262,356 is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) initially developed by Acadia Pharmaceuticals. It’s designed to provide similar effects to anabolic steroids but with reduced androgenic properties, thereby limiting potential side effects. Preliminary research on the compound shows it has potential to treat conditions such as osteoporosis and muscle wasting. In bodybuilding and fitness circles, AC-262,356 is known for its potential to promote muscle growth and increase strength. However, as a fairly new compound, it has not been as extensively researched as other SARMs, and its long-term safety and full effect profile is not yet entirely understood. Thus, it should be used with caution, and its current status is considered experimental.
BMS-564,929
BMS-564,929 is a non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that was developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb. Its purpose was to treat age-related functional decline such as muscle wasting and osteoporosis. Due to its selective action, it is designed to have the anabolic effects of testosterone on muscle tissue without the adverse androgenic side effects. In the fitness community, it is known to promote muscle growth and strength. However, it is still in the experimental stage and is not approved for medical use. It is considered a performance-enhancing drug and its use might come with potential risks as long-term safety data is not available.
JNJ-28330835
JNJ-28330835 is an experimental selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that was developed by Johnson & Johnson. It is a non-steroidal compound designed to have similar muscle and bone enhancing effects as testosterone but with fewer side effects. It has been studied for its potential in treating conditions like muscle wasting and osteoporosis. Like other SARMs, it is popular in the fitness and bodybuilding community due to its potential to improve muscle mass and physical performance.
PF-06260414
PF-06260414 is a research compound developed by Pfizer. It is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), often explored in scientific studies for its potential in treating conditions like muscle wasting and osteoporosis. This compound is designed to have similar effects as androgenic drugs like anabolic steroids but with more selective action. However, it is important to note that PF-06260414 is not yet approved by any health regulatory authorities and is strictly for research purposes. The exact mechanism, effects, and potential side effects of this compound are still under study and not completely understood. It is not recommended for use outside controlled research environments.
LGD-2226
LGD-2226 is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that is still being researched and is not yet approved for human use. This compound is designed to bind to androgen receptors with high affinity and selectivity, providing anabolic effects similar to traditional steroids but with fewer side effects. These effects could potentially include increased muscle mass and bone density. As such, LGD-2226 may offer potential benefits in treating conditions such as muscle wasting and osteoporosis. However, due to its experimental nature, there’s not enough data concerning its side effects, safety profile, and long-term implications. Therefore, it is considered for research purposes only until further notice and not recommended for personal use.
LGD-3303
LGD-3033 is an investigational selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has not been approved for human use. It is primarily researched for its potential to treat conditions like muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and cancer-related cachexia, due to its purported anabolic effects and muscle-building abilities. LGD-3033 is known to selectively bind to androgen receptors, which could result in increased muscle mass and bone density without the usual negative side effects associated with anabolic steroids.
S-40503
S-40503 is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that is still in the experimental phase and has not been approved for use in humans. Research has shown it to potentially have strong anabolic effects, particularly on bone and muscle tissue. As a result, it’s being investigated for the treatment of conditions such as osteoporosis. Despite the promising potential, there’s not enough information on its long-term effects, and it is currently not recommended for personal use due to the lack of comprehensive clinical trials. Its chemical structure and mechanisms are believed to provide fewer negative side effects compared to traditional anabolic steroids, but this has not been fully confirmed.
Peptides
GHRP-2
GHRP-2, short for Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2, is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. It is known for its ability to significantly increase the body’s natural production of human growth hormone (HGH), which can promote muscle growth, fat loss, and improved recovery from injuries. GHRP-2 is typically used for purposes such as anti-aging, bodybuilding, or to improve athletic performance. It is often used in conjunction with other peptides to maximize results. It is not a steroid but can produce similar effects in terms of muscle growth and fat loss. Notable side effects include water retention, increased hunger, and occasionally, hypoglycemia.
GHRP-6
GHRP-6, short for Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6, is a synthetic met-enkephalin analog that signals the pituitary gland to produce more human growth hormone (HGH). Similar to GHRP-2, GHRP-6 is acclaimed for its ability to stimulate significant increases in the body’s natural HGH production and is typically used for goals such as muscle growth, fat loss, and improved recovery from injuries. However, GHRP-6 is specifically known to significantly increase food intake by stimulating hunger and aiding in energy metabolism, making it valuable for individuals looking to increase their overall caloric intake. Side effects can include water retention, excessive hunger, and occasionally hypoglycemia. It is commonly used in combination with other peptides for maximum benefits.
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a synthetic peptide that selectively stimulates the release of Growth Hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. Unlike other growth hormone releasing peptides, ipamorelin only stimulates GH release in a selective manner, leading to more predictable and controllable results. It is known for promoting muscle growth, fat loss, anti-aging, and improved recovery from workouts or injuries. Compared to other GHRPs, Ipamorelin is considered one of the safest due to its minimal side effects. It doesn’t cause excessive hunger or affect cortisol, acetylcholine, prolactin, and aldosterone, minimizing side effects such as bloating or water retention. It is frequently used in conjunction with CJC-1295 in the bodybuilding and fitness community for synergistic effects.
CJC-1295
CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide known for its ability to increase plasma growth hormone levels. It was initially developed to treat diseases and medical conditions involving muscle wasting, but has found favor in the bodybuilding and fitness community for its potential benefits surrounding improved protein synthesis, muscle growth, and fat loss. CJC-1295 helps in extending the half-life and bioavailability of growth hormone-releasing hormone, resulting in an increased growth hormone secretion and IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) secretion, which has anabolic effects in adults. Most commonly, it’s used in conjunction with other peptides like GHRP-2 or Ipamorelin to enhance the overall effects. Side effects may include fluid retention, tingling or numbness, and fatigue, although these are relatively rare.
TB-500
TB-500, also known as Thymosin Beta 4, is a powerful peptide known for its ability to promote healing, repair, and regeneration of damaged tissues. It is naturally found in most human and animal cells, playing a crucial role in organ regeneration, endothelial cell migration, and anti-inflammatory activity. TB-500 is best known for its use in repairing injured tissue and promoting growth of new blood cells in areas where they are needed. This makes it helpful for athletes and bodybuilders looking to speed up recovery time from injuries or intense workouts. It also has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, contributing to its popularity among athletes. Side effects are generally minimal but can include fatigue and head rush with high dosages.
BPC-157
BPC-157 is a pentadecapeptide, composed of 15 amino acids, known for its robust healing properties. It is originally derived from a protective stomach protein found in gastric juice. It is widely researched for its potential therapeutic effects, especially for its ability to promote healing of various wounds and damage in the body. It has been known to enhance the healing of wounds and injuries including tendons, muscles, nerves, and even the brain. BPC-157 is also found to have systemic effects throughout the body, possibly improving gut health and inflammation. It is commonly used in the forms of capsules, oral solutions, or injections. BPC-157 is not a banned substance; however, it’s still classified as a research chemical.
PEG-MGF
PEG-MGF, or Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor, is a variant of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) which has been chemically altered with PEGylation to provide a longer half-life. It plays a key role in muscle growth and repair by promoting the division and multiplication of the satellite cells in the muscle tissue. This peptide is often used by bodybuilders and athletes to improve their performance and accelerate muscle growth. It is also known for its potential in tissue repair, making it helpful in recovery from injuries. It is generally administered through subcutaneous injections.
AOD9604
AOD9604 is a modified fragment of human Growth Hormone (GH) that specifically targets fat loss. It has been proven to have the fat reducing effects of GH without its negative side effects such as blood sugar issues or growth abnormalities. Originally developed for the treatment of obesity, it is currently popular among athletes and bodybuilders for its ability to promote fat loss, increase muscle mass, and enhance performance. AOD9604 also exhibits potential regenerative properties which may aid in cartilage repair. It is usually administered via injection.
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic analogue of the peptide hormone melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) which stimulates the production of melanin in the body, leading to skin darkening. Primarily used as a tanning agent, it has also been found to have aphrodisiac effects. While it can help protect against harmful UV radiation by increasing the level of melanin, there are potential side effects including nausea, fatigue, and increased libido. It is generally administered through subcutaneous injections. Please note that Melanotan II is not approved by the FDA and should be used with caution.
IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3, which stands for Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Long Arg3, is a synthetically produced protein that plays a key role in the growth and development of muscles. This peptide has been altered to include a 13 amino acid sequence at its N-terminus, improving its half-life and biological activity compared to the native IGF-1. It’s commonly used in research and by athletes for muscle building, recovery, and performance enhancement. It promotes cell division, delays muscle cell aging, and enhances nutrient shuttling. It’s usually administered through subcutaneous injections. However, it may have potential side effects, like hypoglycemia, if misused.
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
Mechano Growth Factor (MGF) is a peptide hormone, a variant of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which plays a significant role in muscle growth and repair. It is produced in the body in response to muscle damage and stimulates the growth and multiplication of muscle cells, aiding in the repair and creation of new fibers. This makes it particularly popular among athletes and bodybuilders looking to accelerate muscle growth and recovery. However, MGF has a very short half-life, which led to the development of the pegylated version, PEG-MGF, for a longer and more effective response.
Hexarelin
Hexarelin is a synthetic peptide known for its growth hormone releasing properties. It belongs to the group of drugs known as growth hormone secretagogues. Its action amplifies the natural growth hormone releasing pathway of the body, leading to an increase in the body’s own production of growth hormone. This increased growth hormone level has effects like increased bone density, muscle mass, and reduced body fat. Hexarelin has also shown potential cardioprotective abilities. However, potential side effects can include increased hunger, water retention, and tingling or numbness in hands and feet. It’s typically administered through subcutaneous or intramuscular injections.
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic form of growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that is primarily used for the treatment of HIV-associated lipodystrophy – a condition characterized by abnormal fat distribution in persons living with HIV. It works by reducing the excess abdominal fat associated with the condition. The compound has been shown to improve physical appearance and wellbeing in affected individuals. Some of the potential side effects include joint pain, nausea, and skin rash. Tesamorelin is typically administered through subcutaneous injections. The US FDA has approved the use of Tesamorelin.
Triptorelin
Triptorelin is a synthetic hormone that acts as an agonist of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH). It is predominantly used in the treatment of hormone-responsive cancers such as prostate cancer and breast cancer, as well as for certain types of infertility treatments. Triptorelin works by reducing the increasing levels of LH and FSH in men. It is sometimes used for Post Cycle Therapy. Common side effects may include hot flashes, reduced sexual desire, and erectile dysfunction in men. It is typically administered via injection.
Selank
Selank is a synthetic peptide that has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. It is derived from a naturally occurring immune peptide, Tuftsin, and has demonstrated benefits such as enhancing learning, improving memory, and reducing anxiety. Selank is also thought to influence the concentration of monoamine neurotransmitters and induce metabolism of serotonin. It’s generally administered through nasal spray or injection. Despite its benefits, the potential side effects include fatigue, headache, and drowsiness.
Semax
Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is primarily known for its neuroprotective and nootropic effects. Commonly used in Russia and Ukraine for treating stroke, cognitive disorders, and memory impairments, it is also used off-label by some individuals for cognitive enhancement purposes. Semax works by stimulating the central nervous system, enhancing memory, improving focus, reducing mental fatigue, and increasing brain activity. It is generally administered through nasal drops or sprays.
GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone)
Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH), also known as somatocrinin, is a key player in the regulation of growth hormone (GH) secretion in the body. Produced in the hypothalamus, GHRH stimulates the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland. Its influences range from growth and development to metabolism processes. Synthetic versions of GHRH such as Sermorelin and CJC-1295 are often used in research and clinically to test GH secretion or to treat GH deficiency in children. Potential side effects can include redness or swelling at the injection site, flushing, difficulty swallowing, and changes in taste.
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced naturally in the body during pregnancy. In the medical field, HCG is used as a tumor marker, in fertility treatments, and to sustain pregnancy. In the world of performance-enhancing substances, HCG is often used to maintain testicular size and condition during anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) use, or to aid in recovery after discontinuing AAS use. Its administration can lead to side effects like bloating, mood swings, and headaches. The compound is typically taken via subcutaneous or intramuscular injections.
EPO (Erythropoietin)
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. It’s primarily used in medical treatments for conditions like anemia, particularly in cases related to chronic kidney disease or chemotherapy. In the realm of athletics, EPO is known as a performance-enhancing drug because it can increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, thereby improving endurance. However, its misuse can lead to health risks such as blood clotting, strokes, and heart attacks. EPO is usually administered through subcutaneous or intravenous injections.
Steroids
- Anavar (Oxandrolone)
- Dianabol (Methandienone)
- Winstrol (Stanozolol)
- Anadrol (Oxymetholone)
- Trenbolone
- Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone)
- Testosterone Enanthate
- Testosterone Cypionate
- Testosterone Propionate
- Sustanon 250
- Clenbuterol
- Turinabol
- Primobolan (Methenolone)
- Masteron (Drostanolone)
- Proviron (Mesterolone)
- Oxymetholone
- Methandrostenolone
- Stanozolol
- Nandrolone phenylpropionate
- Nandrolone decanoate
- Boldenone undecylenate
- Trenbolone acetate
- Trenbolone enanthate
- Methenolone enanthate
- Fluoxymesterone
- Methyltestosterone
- Testosterone undecanoate
- Testosterone decanoate
- Testosterone isocaproate
- Testosterone phenylpropionate
- Drostanolone enanthate
- Drostanolone propionate
- Mestanolone
- Mesterolone
- Clostebol acetate
- Testosterone suspension
- Trenbolone Hexahydrobenzylcarbonate
- Testosterone blend (Sustanon 250)
- Testosterone base
- Dihydroboldenone (1-Testosterone)
- 1-Androstenediol
- 4-Androstenediol
- Halotestin
- Supertest
- Tritren
- Epistane
- Methoxygonadiene
- Desoxy-Methyl-Testosterone
- Methyl-1-Testosterone
- Trendione (Trenavar)
- Methasterone (Superdrol)
- 1-Androsterone (1-DHEA)
- 4-Androsterone (4-DHEA)
- 5-DHEA
- 7-Keto-DHEA
- Formebolone
- Furazabol
- Mebolazine
- Mibolerone
- Norboletone
- Norclostebol
- Normethandrone
- Stenbolone
- Tetrahydrogestrinone
SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators)
- Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
- Raloxifene (Evista)
- Clomifene (Clomid)
- Toremifene (Fareston)
- Lasofoxifene
AIs (Aromatase Inhibitors)
- Anastrozole (Arimidex)
- Letrozole (Femara)
- Exemestane (Aromasin)
- Formestane
- Vorozole (Rivizor)
Other Compounds
Erectile Dysfunction Medications
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Cialis)
- Vardenafil (Levitra)
- Avanafil (Spedra)
Sexual Health and Desire Enhancers
- Flibanserin (Addyi)
- Bromocriptine
- Cabergoline (Dostinex)
- Pergolide
Hair Loss Treatment
- Finasteride (Proscar/Propecia)
- Dutasteride (Avodart)
- Minoxidil (Rogaine)
- Spironolactone (Aldactone)
- Cyproterone acetate
- RU 58841
Thyroid Medications
- Liothyronine (Cytomel β T3)
- Levothyroxine (Synthroid β T4)
Metabolism Boosters and Fat Burners
- 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP)
- Cardarine (Endurobol)
Other Miscellaneous Compounds
- Oxytocin
- Aldosterone
- Desmopressin
- Eplerenone (Inspra)
- Fludrocortisone (Florinef)
- Meldonium (Mildronate)
- Forskolin
- Albuterol
- Clenbuterol
- Ephedrine
- Yohimbine
- Phentermine
- Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- Modafinil (Provigil)
- Armodafinil (Nuvigil)
- Adrafinil
- Bromantane
- Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
- Zolpidem (Ambien)
- Pyrilamine
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Dextromethorphan (DXM)
- Phenethylamine (PEA)
- Phenylephrine
- Salbutamol (Albuterol)