Prohormones vs. SARMs: Key Differences
Prohormones and SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are substances that help people build muscle and get stronger. They are popular with athletes, bodybuilders, and people who want to improve their physical fitness. To learn more about Prohormones, you can read our detailed guide here. While both of these products help with muscle growth, they work in different ways and have different risks. Knowing the difference between them can help you make a better choice about which one might be right for you.
Why Do People Use Performance Enhancers?
People often use performance enhancers to build muscle, get stronger, and recover faster. These substances can help you see results more quickly than if you were only using exercise and a healthy diet. However, using Prohormones or SARMs can come with side effects, so it’s important to understand how they work before using them. Using additional supplements like aromatase inhibitors for prohormone cycles can help manage side effects and hormonal imbalances.
Choosing the Right One for Your Goals
Choosing between Prohormones and SARMs depends on your goals, how experienced you are, and what risks you’re willing to take. This article will explain the differences so you can decide which one might be better for you.
Key Takeaways
- Prohormones turn into powerful hormones in your body. They help you build muscle quickly but come with a lot of side effects.
- SARMs attach to certain parts of your muscles and bones to help them grow without many of the risks of steroids or Prohormones.
- Both Prohormones and SARMs are illegal in most sports and have rules around their use in many countries.
- Before using either one, it’s important to know the risks and use them safely with Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) to help your body recover.
What Are Prohormones?
Introduction to Prohormones
Prohormones are chemicals that your body turns into hormones like testosterone. They became popular in the 1990s because they were thought to be a legal and easier way to boost muscle growth, similar to steroids. Over time, Prohormones were banned in many places because of their dangerous side effects. Supporting your body with milk thistle for liver detox can be important while using Prohormones to reduce potential liver damage.
How Prohormones Work
Prohormones are chemicals that your body changes into anabolic hormones. These hormones help you build muscle and get stronger. When you take Prohormones, they turn into powerful hormones in your body and start working like steroids. This boosts testosterone and helps your muscles grow.
Benefits of Using Prohormones
- Build Muscle Fast: Prohormones make your muscles grow fast because they increase testosterone levels.
- Get Stronger: They help you lift heavier weights and feel stronger during workouts.
- Better Performance: They also help you recover faster, so you can work out harder and more often.
Risks and Side Effects of Prohormones
- Hormonal Problems: Prohormones can cause hormonal imbalances. They can increase estrogen, which may cause gynecomastia (growth of breast tissue in men).
- Liver Damage: Prohormones, especially those that are methylated, are hard on your liver and can cause liver damage.
- Other Side Effects: People taking Prohormones may also experience acne, hair loss, mood swings, and high blood pressure.
Types of Prohormones
| Type of Prohormone | Description | Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Methylated Prohormones | Very strong but hard on the liver | High risk of liver damage |
| Non-Methylated Prohormones | Less toxic but less effective | Lower risk of liver damage |
How to Use Prohormones Safely
- Cycle Length: Beginners should use Prohormones for only 4-6 weeks. More advanced users might go up to 8-10 weeks.
- Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT): You need PCT after using Prohormones to help restore natural hormone levels. Medicines like Clomid or Nolvadex help balance hormones.
- Monitor Your Health: You should get blood tests to check your liver and hormones while using Prohormones. Taking supplements like natural testosterone boosters can also help during recovery.
What Are SARMs?
Introduction to SARMs
SARMs are different from Prohormones and steroids. They were originally made to help people who have muscle loss due to diseases. SARMs are popular because they target specific areas like muscles and bones without affecting other parts of the body, like the liver, as much.
How SARMs Work
SARMs work by attaching to androgen receptors that are found in muscles and bones. This helps your body build muscle without many of the other problems that come with steroids or Prohormones.
Benefits of Using SARMs
- Muscle Growth: SARMs are effective at building lean muscle and help burn fat too.
- Lower Risk of Side Effects: Compared to Prohormones, SARMs usually have fewer side effects.
- Stronger Bones: SARMs also help make your bones stronger, which can help with bone-related issues.
Risks and Side Effects of SARMs
- Hormonal Issues: SARMs can lower your body’s natural testosterone production, so you may need PCT to recover.
- Cholesterol Problems: SARMs can change your cholesterol levels, sometimes increasing bad cholesterol (LDL).
- Liver Effects: Some SARMs can still affect your liver, especially if taken for a long time.
Popular SARMs and Their Uses
| SARM | Use Case | Benefits | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ostarine (MK-2866) | Cutting and Bulking | Helps build muscle, strengthens bones | Mild testosterone suppression |
| Ligandrol (LGD-4033) | Bulking | Helps increase muscle mass | Potential cholesterol problems |
| Testolone (RAD-140) | Bulking and Strength Gain | Builds muscle quickly | Hormone suppression |
| Andarine (S4) | Cutting | Improves muscle definition and fat loss | Vision changes |
How to Use SARMs Safely
- Dosage and Cycle Length: Start with low doses, usually around 10-20 mg per day, and stick to cycles of 6-8 weeks.
- Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT): After using SARMs, use a light PCT to help your body recover its natural testosterone levels.
- Supplements During Cycle: Supplements like electrolytes can help protect your body and keep you hydrated while using SARMs or Prohormones.
Comparing Prohormones vs. SARMs
How They Work Differently
| Factor | Prohormones | SARMs |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Convert into anabolic hormones in the body | Bind directly to androgen receptors |
| Selectivity | Non-selective—affect multiple systems | Selective—target only muscle and bone tissue |
| Impact on Liver | High liver strain (particularly methylated) | Mild liver strain |
Muscle Growth and Side Effects
- Muscle Gains: Both Prohormones and SARMs are good for building muscle, but Prohormones may give faster gains.
- Side Effects: Prohormones have more side effects like liver damage, high blood pressure, and hormonal imbalances. SARMs are less harsh on the liver and usually have fewer side effects.
Legal Status
- Prohormones are illegal to buy in most countries without a prescription because they are similar to steroids.
- SARMs are also illegal for use in most sports and are often sold as research chemicals, which means they are not approved for regular use.
Cost
- Prohormones are cheaper but require extra products for liver support and PCT, which can make them more expensive overall.
- SARMs are more expensive, but they usually have fewer hidden costs related to health side effects.
Safety and Legal Concerns
Legal Status
- Prohormones are often considered illegal drugs and are tightly controlled in many places. Using them without a prescription can be against the law.
- SARMs are in a gray area legally. They are sold as “research chemicals,” which means they are not officially approved for human use.
Long-Term Risks
- Prohormones have been known to cause serious health problems like liver damage and heart issues if used for a long time.
- SARMs are newer, and there isn’t enough research to know all the long-term risks, but they could cause hormonal issues and liver problems with prolonged use.
Ethics in Sports
- Both Prohormones and SARMs are banned in sports. If an athlete tests positive, they could be banned from competing.
Should You Choose Prohormones or SARMs?
Who Should Use Prohormones?
- Experienced Users: Prohormones are best for people who are experienced with supplements and are looking for rapid gains.
- Prepared for Risks: They are suitable for those willing to manage the strong side effects and risks.
Who Should Use SARMs?
- Beginners or Intermediate Users: SARMs are better for people who want to build muscle but don’t want the high risk of Prohormones.
- Lower Risk Tolerance: SARMs are a good choice if you want fewer side effects.
Alternatives to Prohormones and SARMs
- Natural Supplements: Creatine, protein powders, and beta-alanine can help build muscle safely.
- Training and Diet: Eating right, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest are the safest ways to build strength and muscle. You can also consider using glutamine for better recovery after Prohormone cycles.
FAQ Section
- What Are the Major Differences Between Prohormones and SARMs?
Prohormones turn into anabolic hormones and have a higher potency and risk, whereas SARMs selectively target androgen receptors in muscle and bone, offering muscle growth with fewer side effects. - Which Is Better for Gaining Muscle Quickly: Prohormones or SARMs?
Prohormones are typically better for quick muscle growth but come with more risks. SARMs work more slowly but are usually safer. - Are SARMs Safer Than Prohormones?
Yes, SARMs are generally considered safer because they target muscle growth without affecting other organs as much. - Do I Need a Prescription for SARMs or Prohormones?
Prohormones need a prescription in most places, while SARMs are sold as research chemicals but not approved for human use. - How Do Prohormones Affect Hormone Balance?
Prohormones can significantly increase testosterone, but they can also increase estrogen, which can lead to gynecomastia and other problems. - Are There Any Long-Term Risks Associated with SARMs?
There isn’t enough research to know all the long-term effects, but some risks may include liver damage and hormone suppression. - Can Women Use SARMs or Prohormones Safely?
Women can use SARMs at low doses, but using Prohormones is risky because it can cause unwanted male characteristics. - What Kind of PCT Do I Need After Prohormones or SARMs?
After Prohormones, you need a strong PCT to help your body recover, like Clomid or Nolvadex. After SARMs, a lighter PCT might be enough. - Are Prohormones Legal to Buy Online?
Prohormones are often illegal to buy online without a prescription, and many products sold are not safe or legal. - How Do I Know If SARMs Are Genuine or Fake When Buying Online?
Look for third-party testing and reviews. Trusted sellers usually show lab results.
Conclusion
Both Prohormones and SARMs can help build muscle and strength, but they come with different levels of risk. Prohormones offer rapid muscle gains but have more serious side effects, while SARMs provide a more targeted approach with fewer side effects. If you decide to use these substances, always consult a healthcare professional, and make sure you understand the proper cycle and PCT to keep your body safe.
