Muscle Gains – Ostarine vs RAD-140
When comparing muscle gains, RAD-140 is much stronger.
It leads to larger and faster muscle growth compared to Ostarine. RAD-140 is often used by those looking to gain significant muscle mass in a shorter period, making it more effective for bulking.
Ostarine, while effective, works more gradually.
It helps build lean muscle over time and is better suited for those aiming for steady, controlled gains. Ostarine is ideal if you’re looking for moderate improvements in muscle without rapid changes.
Strength and Performance
RAD-140 also excels in terms of strength.
People usually improve in strength early in their cycles. This makes RAD-140 more suitable for those who are looking to increase their lifting capacity and overall gym performance quickly.
Ostarine offers a more gradual increase in strength.
While you’ll still see gains, they come at a slower pace. Ostarine is better for those looking for consistent, long-term (but slower) progress rather than immediate strength boosts.
Side Effects – Ostarine vs RAD-140
The side effects of RAD-140 are more pronounced.
Testosterone suppression is stronger with RAD-140, and some people get side effects such as hair thinning, acne, and liver strain. As a result, you’ll need a post-cycle therapy (PCT) after finishing a RAD-140 cycle to help normalize your natural Testosterone production.
Ostarine has a much milder side effect profile.
It’s less suppressive and generally easier on the body, with fewer reports of noticeable side effects. For most people, the side effects are minimal, making it a safer choice, especially for those new to SARMs.
Suppression and PCT
RAD-140 is highly suppressive to natural testosterone production.
Without PCT, it can take longer for your body to recover after a RAD-140 cycle, and you risk feeling fatigued or losing some of the muscle gains. You’ll need to use a PCT protocol to help your testosterone levels recover.
Ostarine causes less suppression, and some people can get away without PCT after a lower-dose cycle.
However, even with Ostarine, it’s always wise to have a plan for recovery in case you experience any suppression.
Read my RAD 140 PCT and Ostarine PCT posts for more info about this.
Best for Beginners?
For beginners, Ostarine is the safer and more manageable option.
It’s less intense, has fewer side effects, and doesn’t require as strict of a post-cycle recovery. Ostarine can be used for both bulking and cutting, depending on how you tailor your diet and exercise routine.
RAD-140 is more advanced and is typically recommended for those who have some experience with SARMs.
While it offers faster gains, the side effects and suppression make it more challenging for someone starting out.
Stacking Ostarine and RAD-140
Yes, you can stack Ostarine with RAD-140 for more significant results.
However, stacking these two compounds increases testosterone suppression, meaning you’ll definitely need a strong PCT plan afterward.
TL;DR
RAD-140 is stronger, providing faster muscle gains and increased strength but comes with more side effects and requires PCT.
Ostarine is milder, offering steady muscle growth with fewer side effects, making it a better option for beginners or those looking for a less aggressive approach.
FAQs
RAD-140 builds more muscle faster than Ostarine. Ostarine is more gradual.
Ostarine is generally safer with fewer side effects and less testosterone suppression. RAD-140 carries more risks and requires PCT after a cycle.
Yes, you can stack them to maximize muscle gains while benefiting from Ostarine’s milder effects. Be prepared for increased testosterone suppression, though.
RAD-140 absolutely requires PCT due to its strong suppression. Ostarine’s suppression is much milder, and PCT might not be needed at lower doses.