SARMs in Supplements

SARMs in Supplements

A Shared Warning from the Front Lines of Health and Sports On November 9, 2017, a united front was formed between the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and the leading trade associations of the dietary supplement industry. Their joint message was clear and alarming: Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are being illegally marketed as nutritional supplements and pose significant health risks.

Backed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this alliance of health and industry advocates aims to protect consumers—especially athletes—from these unapproved, dangerous substances.

Understanding SARMs: What Are They?

Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are synthetic drugs designed to mimic the effects of anabolic steroids by targeting androgen receptors in the body, primarily in muscle and bone. Initially developed for treating conditions such as muscle wasting and osteoporosis, SARMs have never been approved by the FDA for human consumption.

Despite their experimental origins, SARMs have gained popularity in bodybuilding and sports communities due to their muscle-building effects and claims of fewer side effects compared to traditional anabolic steroids. This popularity, however, is a dangerous trend that has raised red flags across the medical, regulatory, and athletic worlds.

Historical Context of SARMs in the Supplement Market

1. Origin and Early Research

SARMs were first developed in the 1990s as potential treatments for serious medical conditions.

Their selective targeting was meant to reduce unwanted side effects commonly associated with steroids.

However, by the mid-2000s, SARMs began to appear on the black market and in online supplement stores, marketed deceptively as "legal steroids."

2. Regulatory Attention Intensifies (2010–2015)

Multiple studies began to highlight the health risks of SARMs, including liver toxicity, hormone imbalance, cardiovascular damage, and reproductive issues.

The FDA began issuing warning letters to companies selling SARMs as dietary supplements, a misclassification under U.S. law.

SARMs were added to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List under category S1 (Anabolic Agents).

3. The 2017 USADA & Industry Coalition

USADA, alongside major supplement trade groups such as AHPA, CRN, NPA, CHPA, and UNPA, issued a powerful public statement in support of FDA enforcement against SARM-containing products.

This collaboration marked a significant shift, indicating that not only regulators but also ethical players within the supplement industry wanted these substances eradicated from store shelves.

Key Points from the 2017 Joint Statement

SARMs Are Not Dietary Supplements

According to the FDA, SARMs are unapproved drugs, not legitimate dietary ingredients.

Severe Health Risks

Use of SARMs has been associated with liver damage, heart attacks, strokes, and fertility issues.

Widespread Mislabeling

SARMs are often hidden behind misleading names like Ostarine or go completely undisclosed on product labels.

Risk to Athletes

Athletes risk suspension and sanctions for consuming tainted supplements—even unknowingly.

USADA continues to warn athletes through educational initiatives about hidden SARMs.

Regulatory Crackdown

Companies selling SARMs under the guise of supplements face strict enforcement, fines, and product seizures.

Industry Responsibility

Major supplement trade associations have committed to monitoring members and removing SARMs from their supply chains.

Consumer Advice: Stay Safe and Informed

Always read labels carefully—but know that not all ingredients may be listed.

Avoid products promising steroid-like results—these often contain illegal or dangerous compounds.

Check for third-party testing or verification seals from bodies like NSF Certified for Sport.

Consult healthcare professionals, especially if you’re an athlete or under medical care.

Report suspicious products to the FDA’s MedWatch program or local health authorities.

Conclusion: Choose Smart, Stay Safe

The partnership between USADA, the FDA, and the supplement industry's most credible voices marks a critical stand for consumer safety. While SARMs may promise rapid results, the risks far outweigh the rewards. They are illegal, unregulated, and potentially life-threatening, especially for athletes with careers on the line.

As supplement shelves become more crowded, the onus is on consumers to stay informed, remain sceptical of “miracle” claims, and prioritise health over shortcuts. Legitimate nutrition and sports performance can be supported with approved, evidence-backed supplements, but SARMs have no place in that journey.