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Surface here is educational only; do not use without medical supervision. Our editorial verdict is SKIP-FOR-NOW — current cost / risk / redundancy puts it below the line.
LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)
Nonsteroidal SARM developed by Ligand Pharma (later licensed to Viking as VK5211) for muscle wasting; reliably builds lean mass at 5-10…
Aliases (5)
Overview
What is LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)?
LGD-4033 (ligandrol) is an investigational selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It is used off-label for muscle gain and recomposition, with no current FDA approval.
Key Benefits
Increases lean body mass and strength with relatively low androgenic side effects compared to testosterone, supports recovery from injury, and produces dose-dependent muscle gains at 5-10 mg/day in early human trials.
Mechanism of Action
Selectively binds and activates the androgen receptor in muscle and bone tissue while sparing prostate and sebaceous glands, driving anabolic protein synthesis and myogenic gene programs without classic steroidal side effects.
Pharmacokinetics
▸ Cycle structure & PCT AAS oral
Ramp dose over week 1, hold steady through cycle weeks. Track baseline labs (TT/FT/E2/SHBG/HCT/lipids/LFTs) at week 0; recheck at week 4 and end-of-cycle.
On the last dose, the ester clears over its half-life window . PCT begins after the active compound has cleared.
Standard PCT is enclomiphene 12.5-25 mg/day or clomid 50/50/25/25 over 4 weeks (or nolvadex 20/20/10/10). HCG bridge optional during cycle to preserve testicular volume + faster restart. Bloodwork at PCT week 4 + 8 to confirm HPG axis recovery (LH, FSH, TT back to baseline).
Peptide Interactions
Used as PCT to restart HPG axis post-cycle — selective ER antagonist at hypothalamus, drives LH/FSH back up.
Stacking SARMs compounds HPG suppression and hepatotoxicity — not additive in benefit, multiplicative in risk.
Quality Indicators
Pharmacy-dispensed, intact packaging
Prescription tablets in original sealed packaging from a licensed pharmacy.
Generic vs branded
Generics are usually fine but bioavailability can vary slightly; track if you switch.
Unbranded blister or counterfeit risk
Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a known issue; verify pharmacy and lot if buying internationally.
What to Expect
- OnsetBody-comp changes appear by week 2-3 (water + early lean mass).
- PeakWeeks 4-8 — reported strength bump, easier recomposition, slight aggression/drive uptick.
Side Effects & Safety
- Common (>10% users in forum/case-series reports):
- HPG-axis suppression (dose-dependent, near-universal at 5+ mg/day)
- Libido changes (initial increase, terminal cycle decrease)
- Mild lethargy mid-to-late cycle
- Lipid shifts (LDL up, HDL down — typical of oral AR agonists)
- Less common (1-10%):
- Mood changes — irritability, depressive symptoms cycle-end
- Hair shedding (despite "selectivity" claims)
- Mild hypertension
- Headaches, nausea
- Rare-serious (<1% but worth knowing):
- Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) — cholestatic hepatitis, sometimes severe. Multiple case reports in young healthy men, several requiring hospitalization. LiverTox classifies LGD-4033 as a recognized cause of hepatotoxicity.
- Persistent hypogonadism — case reports of users requiring TRT after repeat SARM cycles.
- Acute kidney injury (rare, case reports)
- Tendon rupture risk (theoretical, mirroring AAS data)
- Specific watch periods:
- First 4-8 weeks: Liver enzymes (ALT/AST/GGT/bilirubin) — monitor weekly if used. Stop immediately on enzyme elevation.
- Cycle-end → 12 weeks post: LH/FSH/total + free testosterone recovery curve.
- Always: Full lipid panel pre/mid/post.
How was your experience with this compound?
Anonymous · one vote per session · results below at 5+ votes.
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