Description
LGD-4033 (Ligandrol, VK5211) is a non-steroidal, oral selective androgen receptor modulator. The substance binds with high affinity to the androgen receptor (AR) and exerts agonistic effects in muscle and bone tissue, while prostatic and sebocyte activity remains comparatively low.
Per study reports LGD-4033 showed dose-dependent lean mass increase in the landmark Basaria 2013 study (JCEM) in healthy young men over 21 days. The substance was originally developed by Ligand Pharmaceuticals and later licensed to Viking Therapeutics, where it was tested as VK5211 in Phase II hip fracture rehabilitation studies.
Pharmacokinetically LGD-4033 is orally bioavailable with high bioavailability (half-life about 24-36 hours). A once-daily dose is sufficient. Compared to steroids, hepatotoxicity in available studies is moderate - moderate liver marker elevations are documented but not at the level of oral 17α-methyl steroids (Anavar, Dianabol).
Like all AR agonists, LGD-4033 suppresses the HPG axis (hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal). Studies show drop of total testosterone and LH within days, typically recovering 4-6 weeks after discontinuation.
You can order LGD-4033 as oral tablets in one bottle with 10mg per tablet.
This information is for research and educational purposes only. No medical recommendations.
Risks & Safety
LGD-4033 sits in the mid range of the risk scale. As a high-affinity SARM the data situation is comparatively good for a SARM, but the classical class effects are documented.
Documented in studies and the literature:
- HPG suppression: like all AR agonists, LGD-4033 suppresses the HPG axis - total testosterone and LH drop within days, with recovery typically 4-6 weeks after discontinuation.
- HDL suppression: a lowering of HDL cholesterol is documented as a class effect of SARMs.
- Liver markers: moderate elevations of liver enzymes are documented in the studies, though not at the level of oral 17-alpha-methyl steroids.
- PCT requirement: because of the HPG suppression, a SERM PCT after the cycle is customary in the literature.
Monitoring via bloodwork is recommended. This classification does not replace medical advice. Risk and responsibility for any actual use lie entirely with the buyer.
Studies
- The Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Effects of LGD-4033, a Novel Nonsteroidal Oral, Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator, in Healthy Young Men - The Journals of Gerontology: Series A 2013, Basaria et al: Gold-standard study on safety, pharmacokinetics and dose-dependent lean mass increase.
- Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Current Knowledge and Clinical Applications - Sexual Medicine Reviews 2019, Solomon et al: Comprehensive review of the SARM class including mechanism and clinical research.
- Ligandrol (LGD-4033)-Induced Liver Injury - ACG Case Reports Journal 2020, Barbara et al: Case report of cholestatic liver injury following LGD-4033 use.
- LGD-4033 and MK-677 use impacts body composition, circulating biomarkers, and skeletal muscle androgenic hormone and receptor content: A case report - Experimental Physiology 2022, Cardaci et al: Case report on body composition and biomarker changes under LGD-4033.
