Ostarine vs Rad 140 – Benefits & Side Effects Comparison

MK 2866 and RAD 140 are exceptional compounds and are widely considered the best-cutting SARMs. Ostarine is the milder option, while Testolone is the stronger choice. Both Ostarine and RAD 140 are dry compounds, making them suitable for both cutting and bulking.

Main Differences

Ostarine and RAD 140 do not hold water, which is why they are often compared by users looking to start their cutting cycle or bulk without water retention.

The core difference is that RAD 140 is stronger than Ostarine, which translates into both benefits and side effects.

When choosing between the two, it’s crucial to assess your goals for the cycle. This will help you make an informed decision by analyzing the properties of each compound carefully.

Key Considerations

By thoughtfully considering your options, you can avoid potential issues down the line. Here are some conclusions you might reach:

• If you don’t want to do PCT, Ostarine is a safer bet.
• If you’re concerned about hair shedding, Ostarine is a safer choice.
• For more muscle gains during a bulking cycle, RAD 140 is a better pick.
• For a cutting cycle, Ostarine is often a better choice, as RAD 140 on a caloric deficit can potentially lower testosterone levels and complicate recovery.
• If strength is your goal, RAD 140 is superior.

In my opinion, RAD 140 should only be used for cutting by advanced lifters or reserved for bulking cycles. Ostarine is sufficient for retaining muscle during a modest cut, while using RAD 140 for cutting may not be as productive.

Benefits & Side Effects Comparison

The following charts summarize the benefits and side effects of Ostarine and RAD 140. These descriptions will help you understand which compound is more suitable for you.

Ostarine

• Muscle Mass: 35%
• Strength: 30%
• Testosterone Suppression: 10%
• Side Effects: 20%

Benefits:

• Muscle Growth
• Strength Gain
• Increased Performance
• Increased Bone & Joint Density
• Faster Recovery
• No Water Retention
• Connective Tissue Healing

Side Effects:

• Testosterone Suppression
• Cholesterol (Dyslipidemia)
• Elevated Liver Enzymes
• Very Rare: Gyno, Hair Shedding, Insomnia

RAD 140

• Muscle Mass: 70%
• Strength: 80%
• Testosterone Suppression: 50%
• Side Effects: 60%

Benefits:

• Muscle Growth
• Strength Gain
• Increased Performance
• Increased Bone Density
• Faster Recovery
• No Water Retention
• Increased Vascularity
• Better Pumps

Other Benefits:

• Prostate Shrinkage
• Fights Breast Cancer (Proven)
• Better Mood
• Neuroprotective (In Rats)

Side Effects:

• Testosterone Suppression
• Cholesterol (Dyslipidemia)
• Elevated Liver Enzymes (Liver Toxic)
• Hair Shedding
• Aggression
• Very Rare: Gyno, Insomnia

Research Comparison

Both compounds have undergone human trials and are relatively well-researched compared to other SARMs. Ostarine has completed multiple phase II clinical trials, while RAD 140 has completed only one phase I clinical trial.

How to Use Each Compound

Neither SARM should be taken for over 8 weeks for muscle gain. Users typically see a halt in progress around the 8-week mark.

Cycling Differences:

• Ostarine: Mild testosterone suppression; most users may not require PCT.
• RAD 140: Moderately suppressive; often requires a 4-week PCT with one SERM.

Dosing Information:

Ostarine

• Half-life: 24 hours
• Dose: 10-25 mg/day
• Timing and Frequency: 1x a day – in the morning
• Cycle Length: 8-12 weeks
• PCT: Not Always Required

RAD 140

• Half-life: 60 hours
• Dose: 10-20 mg/day
• Timing and Frequency: 1x a day – in the morning
• Cycle Length: 8 weeks
• PCT: Recommended

Conclusion

RAD 140 is much stronger than Ostarine but has more side effects and greater testosterone suppression.

If you’re new to SARMs, start with Ostarine. For longevity and fewer side effects, Ostarine is the better option. If your goal is maximum size while maintaining leanness, RAD 140 is the superior choice.

A document I originally made for my clients. A neat map to the sphere of PEDs and supplements.

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