SARMs and Testosterone: Suppression, Recovery & HPG Axis Impact
schedule9 min readcalendar_todayUpdated Nov 29, 2025
All SARMs suppress natural testosterone production. The degree varies by compound and dose. Understanding this helps plan effective recovery.
articleHow SARMs Suppress Testosterone
SARMs activate androgen receptors, triggering negative feedback:
- Hypothalamus: Detects elevated androgen signaling
- GnRH reduction: Hypothalamus reduces gonadotropin-releasing hormone
- LH/FSH drop: Pituitary releases less luteinizing hormone and FSH
- Testicular shutdown: Leydig cells produce less testosterone
This HPG axis suppression is dose-dependent and compound-specific.
articleClinical Suppression Data
LGD-4033 Phase I Trial (Basaria 2013)
| Dose | Total T | Free T | LH | SHBG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Placebo | Unchanged | Unchanged | Normal | Stable |
| 0.1mg/day | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
| 0.3mg/day | Moderate | Suppressed | Suppressed | Suppressed |
| 1.0mg/day | Significant | Significant | Significant | Dose-dependent |
Key finding: Hormones returned to baseline after discontinuation.
articleSuppression by Compound
- Ostarine: Mild suppression. Some users skip PCT (not recommended).
- Ligandrol: Moderate-high suppression. PCT essential.
- RAD-140: Severe suppression, often equals or exceeds LGD-4033.
- YK-11: Very high suppression (myostatin inhibitor properties).
- S-23: Near-complete suppression (studied as male contraceptive).
articleRecovery Timeline
With Proper PCT
- LH/FSH normalization: 2-4 weeks
- Testosterone baseline: 4-12 weeks
- Spermatogenesis recovery: 3-6 months (if affected)
Without PCT
- Recovery can take 3-6+ months
- Prolonged hypogonadal symptoms
- Risk of muscle loss, mood disorders, sexual dysfunction
Male contraceptive literature: 67% recover by 6 months, 90% by 12 months, 100% by 24 months.
help_outlineFrequently Asked Questions
Yes. All SARMs that activate androgen receptors cause HPG axis suppression. The degree varies: Ostarine is mildest, RAD-140 and S-23 cause severe suppression.
No documented cases of permanent suppression exist. However, prolonged high-dose use or repeated cycles without recovery may extend recovery time significantly.
menu_bookReferences & Sources
- [1]LGD-4033 Hormonal Effects(PMC/NIH, 2013)
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