Overview
This article documents a self-experiment evaluating the anabolic potential, safety, and side effects of injectable LGD-4033 (Magnalone), a SARM, as a substitute for traditional anabolic steroids in muscle growth and maintenance. The review compares injectable to oral SARMs, discusses dosing, reports observed effects, and compiles feedback and blood work data.
Experiment Goals & Design
- The aim was to assess if injectable LGD-4033 could replicate the muscle-building effects of a TRT dose of testosterone with fewer side effects.
- The protocol excluded all other androgens; only exogenous estradiol was used to maintain physiological estrogen levels.
- The study attempted to isolate LGD-4033’s anabolic effects, avoiding confounding variables.
- Dosing started at 3 mg daily based on expert suggestion and personal consultation.
Oral vs. Injectable SARMs
- Injectable SARMs may offer higher bioavailability and bypass first-pass liver metabolism, possibly needing lower doses for similar effects.
- Oral administration can result in more side effects and lower effectiveness due to metabolism and reduced absorption.
- Method of administration can change a drug’s anabolic/androgenic ratio and side effect profile.
Dosing, Half-Life, and Administration
- Initial injectable LGD-4033 dose: 3 mg/day, aiming to match effects of 100 mg/week testosterone or nandrolone.
- Estradiol was administered first transdermally (1.5 mg/day), then orally (1 mg/day) due to poor absorption.
- Injectable LGD-4033 was dosed daily to maintain stable serum levels, as no pharmacokinetic data exists for injectable form.
Observed Effects on Muscle, Strength, and Health
- Switching from testosterone/nandrolone to injectable LGD-4033 resulted in no loss of muscle mass or strength, only minor reduction in muscle fullness.
- Libido increased noticeably after switching from nandrolone to LGD-4033.
- Increased hair shedding and potentially faster body hair growth were noted, raising questions about the compound’s androgenicity.
- Blood pressure and resting heart rate remained stable and similar to baseline TRT levels.
Side Effects
- Significant increase in libido was observed after starting LGD-4033.
- Noted increase in scalp hair shedding; compound may not be "hair safe" at tested dose.
- No reduction in body hair growth despite absence of other androgens.
- Blood pressure and resting heart rate did not worsen compared to baseline.
Cardiovascular and Health Implications
- Injectable SARMs may offer a cardiac safety profile superior to anabolic steroids, with anecdotal cases suggesting less cardiac hypertrophy and better cardiovascular outcomes.
- Potential for use in maintaining muscle while mitigating or reversing steroid-induced cardiovascular issues.
Blood Test Results
- Blood work post-experiment was disappointing, leading to the decision to terminate the cycle.
- Specific details provided in linked commentary and video.
User Reviews and Community Feedback
- Multiple user reports on injectable LGD-4033 and other SARMs were gathered, showing mixed experiences but generally supporting enhanced anabolic effects and lower side effects at lower doses.
Conclusion and Future Perspectives
- Injectable LGD-4033 maintained muscle and strength comparable to standard doses of testosterone or nandrolone at low dose.
- Noted androgenic side effects and disappointing blood results warrant caution.
- The research area is promising but requires further detailed community and clinical studies before widespread use.
Recommendations / Advice
- Approach experimentation with injectable SARMs cautiously due to potential androgenic side effects and unverified long-term safety.
- Ensure proper monitoring with blood work and consult relevant experts before making changes to hormone or SARM regimens.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Investigate long-term androgenic impact and "ceiling" of anabolic effects with higher LGD-4033 doses.
- Further study needed on cardiovascular safety and tissue selectivity in larger cohorts.