RAD-140 vs LGD-4033 Comparison of Benefits & Side Effects

RAD 140 and LGD 4033 are often viewed as equals in terms of their lean muscle-building potential and their impact on natural testosterone production. But is that all there is to it?

How to decide between the two

To effectively decide between the two you need to understand the side effect profile but also the benefits profile of both of them.

Consider the following:

• What do you want out of the cycle?
• What side effects are you willing to risk?

Both of these compounds have amazing benefits and amazing properties and you can say that any one is better than the other if you generalize.

But if you take into consideration your own goals then you can definitely choose one over the other very easily.

Benefits & side effects comparison

Both RAD 140 and LGD 4033 are classified as moderately strong and suppressive SARMs, meaning a cycle of either will typically require a Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) for most users. Both can also cause dyslipidemia (cholesterol panel disbalance).

Ligandrol (LGD 4033)

Muscle Mass: 70%
Strength: 65%
Testosterone Suppression: 50%
Side Effects: 50%

Benefits:

• Muscle Growth
• Strength Gain
• Increased Performance
• Increased Bone & Joint Density
• Faster Recovery
• Better & Fuller Pumps

Side Effects:

• Testosterone Suppression
• Cholesterol (Dyslipidemia)
• LGD Flu
• Water Retention
• Very Rare Side Effects: Gyno, Hair Shedding, Insomnia

Note: The LGD flu is a Ligandrol-specific symptom resembling an upper respiratory tract infection, typically lasting 3 to 5 days.

Testolone (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 / Possible 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 Side Effects: Gyno, Insomnia

Key Differences

RAD 140 and LGD 4033 exhibit a multitude of differences:

In terms of benefits:

• RAD 140 will make you stronger than LGD 4033.
• RAD 140 does not cause water retention, while LGD 4033 does.
• RAD 140 has additional possible benefits beyond performance, like improved cognitive function (based on a minority of anecdotal reports).
• RAD 140 is known to cause hair shedding, which is a dealbreaker for many.

In terms of side effects:

• LGD 4033 may have fewer side effects for some users.
• LGD 4033’s water retention can become problematic with a poor diet or when stacked with MK677.

Results & Expectations

LGD 4033 is typically preferred for bulking cycles, while RAD 140 is more versatile, suitable for both bulking and cutting cycles.

From an 8-week LGD 4033 cycle, one can expect gains of up to:

• 10 – 15 lbs total on a caloric surplus. A few pounds of lean muscle, depending on the individual.
• On a caloric deficit, LGD 4033 will retain muscle, and gains can also be made. Of course if you’ve been in the bodybuilding game, you know that muscle growth is very hard to measure outside of strength increases.

From an 8-week RAD 140 cycle, one can expect gains of up to:

• 8 lbs on a caloric surplus. A few pounds of lean muscle, depending on the individual.
• On a caloric deficit retaining muscle is guaranteed, and gains can be made. The same applies as with LGD. Muscle gains are hard to measure, especially in a deficit.

How to Use Each

Both RAD 140 and LGD 4033 should not be taken for over 8 weeks. Users often experience a plateau after this period, based on the majority of anecdotal data we have. So keep it to 8.

In terms of suppression:

• PCT is often necessary for both RAD 140 and LGD 4033 due to moderate testosterone suppression.

Protocol Cheat Sheets:

LGD 4033 Cheatsheet:

• Half-life: 24 – 36 hours
• Dose: 10-20 mg/day
• Timing and Frequency: 2.5 – 10 mg/day
• Cycle Length: 8 weeks
• PCT: Recommended

RAD 140 Cheatsheet:

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

Stacking RAD 140 and LGD 4033

You should never stack RAD 140 and LGD 4033. They work by the same mechanism of action, leading to competition rather than synergy.

Instead, consider combining SARMs with different mechanisms of action for optimal results, such as:

• YK11 (myostatin pathway) with SARM (androgen pathway)
• MK677 (GH pathway) with SARM (androgen pathway)
• SR-9009 / Cardarine (endurance) with SARM (androgen pathway)

Conclusion

While RAD 140 and LGD 4033 are comparable in terms of lean muscle-building and testosterone suppression, they differ significantly in other areas. By understanding their unique properties, you can make an informed decision on which compound best fits your goals and expectations. Ultimately, there is no definitive winner; the choice depends on your specific needs.

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

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