Selective androgen receptor modulator
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are a class of therapeutic compounds that have similar properties to anabolic agents, but with reduced androgenic properties. This property allows SARMs the advantage of androgen-receptor specificity, tissue selectivity, and the lack of steroid-related side effects.
Pronunciation
Se-lec-tive An-dro-gen Re-cep-tor Mo-du-la-tor
Etymology
The term "Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator" is derived from the compound's selective activity on androgen receptors. "Selective" refers to the compound's ability to selectively bind and activate androgen receptors in certain tissues, "Androgen Receptor" refers to the specific biological target of these compounds, and "Modulator" refers to the compound's ability to either stimulate or inhibit the receptor's activity.
Related Terms
Description
SARMs stimulate and inhibit certain receptors in the body to achieve specific outcomes. They are used in medicine to treat conditions where muscle and bone wastage is a concern, such as osteoporosis, cancer, and hypogonadism. SARMs have also been used by athletes and bodybuilders for their muscle-building properties.
Mechanism of Action
SARMs work by selectively binding to androgen receptors in the body. This selective binding amplifies the beneficial effects of androgen-receptor activation in muscle and bone tissues, while minimizing the undesirable effects in other tissues such as the liver, skin, and prostate.
Side Effects
While SARMs are designed to minimize side effects, some users may still experience side effects such as acne, hair loss, and mood changes. Long-term effects of SARMs use are not well-studied, and caution is advised.
See Also
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