Prohormones vs SARMs

Prohormones vs SARMs

As interest in performance-enhancing supplements continues to rise, many athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts find themselves choosing between prohormones and SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators). While both are used to boost muscle mass, increase strength, and enhance physical performance, they operate through different mechanisms and come with different risk profiles, legal statuses, and benefits.

This guide offers a detailed comparison of prohormones vs SARMs, so you can make an informed decision based on your physique goals, safety concerns, and experience level.

1. What Are Prohormones?

Prohormones are precursor compounds that convert into active anabolic hormones (like testosterone or nandrolone) after being metabolized in the body. Once activated, they exert anabolic and androgenic effects, similar to traditional anabolic steroids.

Common Legal Prohormones Today:

  • 1-Andro (1-DHEA) – Converts to 1-Testosterone, providing lean, dry muscle gains.

  • 4-Andro (4-DHEA) – Converts to testosterone, ideal for bulking cycles.

  • 19-Nor Andro – Converts to nandrolone, known for strength gains and joint support.

  • Epiandrosterone (Epi-Andro) – Converts to DHT, promotes muscle hardness and fat loss.

Prohormones became widely used in the early 2000s but were largely banned by the Designer Anabolic Steroid Control Act (DASCA) in 2014. However, newer DHEA-based compounds remain legal and widely available.

2. What Are SARMs?

SARMs are Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators that bind to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue, selectively enhancing anabolic activity without affecting other organs like the prostate or liver.

Popular SARMs:

  • Ostarine (MK-2866) – Promotes lean muscle retention during a cut.

  • Ligandrol (LGD-4033) – Potent for mass and strength gains.

  • RAD-140 (Testolone) – One of the strongest SARMs for size and power.

  • YK-11 – A myostatin inhibitor for extreme muscle growth.

SARMs were originally developed as potential treatments for muscle-wasting diseases. While some are still in clinical trials, none are approved for human consumption outside of research use.

3. Mechanism of Action

Feature Prohormones SARMs
Activation Must be converted in the liver into anabolic hormones Bind directly to androgen receptors
Anabolic Effect High (depending on compound) Moderate to High
Androgenic Side Effects Moderate to High Low to Moderate
Estrogen Conversion Possible (some compounds aromatize) Limited (some may indirectly affect estrogen)

4. Benefits Comparison

Prohormones:

  • Rapid muscle mass and strength gains

  • High anabolic potency (especially stacked)

  • Some compounds support cutting and recomposition

SARMs:

  • Fewer androgenic side effects (acne, hair loss, prostate issues)

  • Less liver stress (non-methylated)

  • Highly selective action

5. Side Effects Comparison

Prohormones:

  • Testosterone suppression

  • Estrogenic side effects (gyno, water retention)

  • Liver toxicity (especially methylated prohormones)

  • Increased cholesterol and blood pressure

SARMs:

  • Mild testosterone suppression (dose-dependent)

  • Elevated liver enzymes (at high doses or long cycles)

  • Vision disturbances (rare, with S4/Andarine)

  • Unknown long-term health risks (due to limited research)

6. Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)

Prohormones:

A full PCT is necessary, especially after strong or stacked cycles.

  • Arimistane or Novedex XT (aromatase inhibitor)

  • Natural testosterone boosters

  • Liver support (TUDCA, NAC)

SARMs:

Depends on the compound and dosage. Some users run OTC PCT, others require stronger protocols.

  • Mild SARMs (Ostarine): OTC PCT may suffice

  • Strong SARMs (RAD-140, YK-11): Consider full PCT

7. Legal Status

Region Prohormones SARMs
USA Some legal (DHEA-based); others banned under DASCA Legal for research use only (not dietary supplements)
Canada Restricted imports for both Restricted use, not approved for human consumption
UK Controlled substances SARMs are banned for sale for human use
Australia Most prohormones and SARMs are prescription-only or banned

Always check with local authorities before ordering.

8. Which Is Better: Prohormones or SARMs?

It depends on your experience level, goals, and risk tolerance:

Goal Recommended
Max muscle mass Prohormones (stacked or high-potency)
Fat loss with lean retention SARMs (Ostarine, S4) or dry prohormones (Epi-Andro)
Milder cycle, fewer side effects SARMs
Advanced, experienced users Prohormones (stacked)
Beginner with limited experience SARMs or 1-Andro solo cycle

9. Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Both prohormones and SARMs are powerful tools for physique enhancement, but they must be used responsibly. Prohormones tend to be more potent and carry greater risks, while SARMs offer a more selective approach with fewer androgenic effects.

If you’re considering your first cycle, start with a mild prohormone like 1-Andro or a well-researched SARM like Ostarine. Always include on-cycle support and PCT, and consult with a knowledgeable coach or healthcare professional before starting.

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