Key SARM Industry Statistics
- Almost 2-4 million young people use performance-enhancing drugs which also include SARMs.
- In the United States, out of the approximately 3 million users of SARMs, a proportion also consists of elite athletes.
- Since the mid-1990s, almost 12 pharmaceutical companies have been developing SARMs.
- The age group that consumes SARMS the most ranges between 20-24 years.
- In one research where researchers used Google search techniques and searched SARM terms, it was found that almost 210 SARM products were up for online purchase.
- In 2020, a TikTok document released by the NYTimes showed that 1/3 of TikTok users involved in SARMs-related content production were 14 years old or younger.
- In June 2021, a keyword search for “SARMs” across TikTok, produced a high amount of videos on the topic that led to more than 115 million views on the platform.
Selective androgen receptor modulators, or SARMs, are a type of performance-enhancing drug that has gained popularity in recent years.
Unlike traditional steroids, SARMs are designed to specifically target androgen receptors in the body, thereby minimizing potential side effects.
The SARM industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with a wide range of companies offering a variety of products that cater to the needs of athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts.
These products are designed to enhance physical performance and improve appearance, giving enthusiasts an edge in their fitness journey.
However, it is important to note that the long-term effects of SARMs are not fully understood, and their safety has not been thoroughly researched.
Some studies have shown that SARMs can cause liver damage, hormonal imbalances, and other adverse effects.
Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and do proper research before using any SARMs or other performance-enhancing substances.
Therefore, while the SARM industry has shown significant growth in recent years, it is important to prioritize safety and health when considering using any of these products.
In addition, it’s crucial to only purchase SARM products from reputable sources to ensure that they are of high quality and purity.
There have been cases of companies selling counterfeit or contaminated SARM products, which can be dangerous to consume.
Remember, your health and safety should always be the top priority when considering any type of supplement or medication.
The Benefits of SARMs
SARMs have been touted for their ability to improve muscle mass, strength, and endurance, while also aiding in fat loss.
They are also believed to have a lower risk of side effects compared to traditional steroids.
Some of the most popular SARMs on the market include Ostarine, Ligandrol, and Andarine.
The Controversy Surrounding SARMs
Despite their growing popularity, SARMs remain a controversial topic in the world of sports and fitness.
While they are legal to purchase and possess in many countries, including the United States, they are banned by most sports organizations, including the World Anti-Doping Agency.
The lack of regulation surrounding SARMs has also raised concerns about their safety and effectiveness.
Some studies have suggested that they may have negative effects on liver function, while others have found that they may not be as effective as traditional steroids.
With that being said, let’s look at some key SARM industry Statistics!
Chapter 1: Key SARM Industry Statistics
The use of SARMs has increased over the years with the industry progressing steadily. Here are some of the key SARM Industry statistics:
- The use of SARM in the United States is mostly by young men and women: almost 2-4 million young people use performance-enhancing drugs which also include SARMs. This makes SARM Industry one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.
- The risks associated with the use of SARM are evident from one study, which found that 56% of the users have not disclosed to their physicians about their consumption.
- In the United States, out of the approximately 3 million users of SARMs, a proportion also consists of elite athletes.
- The age group that consumes the anabolic agent the most ranges between 20-24 years.
- Since the mid-1990s, almost 12 pharmaceutical companies have been developing SARMs.
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warning letters to 3 companies so far that are distributing products containing SARMs in the market. These products are being supplied under the disguise of dietary supplements which are unapproved drugs that have yet to be evaluated for safety.
- SARMs were added to the WADA Prohibited List in 2008 and the first Alcohol Attributable Fraction (AAF) with a SARM drug candidate was reported in 2010.
- Since 2008, there has been a steady increase in the number of AAFs involving SARMs reported globally.
- In the US, SARMs have been associated with more than 50 sanctions, and globally, SARMs have accounted for more than 230 positive tests since 2012.
Chapter 2: SARMs Statistics Worldwide
Just like the United States, SARMs and the industry have seen considerable growth around the world.
- In a study conducted through surveys via an online-based randomized response technique (RRT), it was found that in 2021, 2.7% of men who go to the gym have been using SARMs.
- In the United Kingdom, the undercover reporters visited 10 shops to gather data about SARMs. They asked for products that would make them “bigger” or “leaner” in their gym training. They were suggested pills containing SARMs to be taken once or twice a day. The cost of 60 pills was around 40 GBP.
- According to BBC, the reports spoke to people as young as 19 years of age who have claimed that after taking SARM products. their physical and mental health was harmed.
- In Australia, SARMs have been designated as a very serious threat causing erectile dysfunction among athletes. This was found after a study that showed 12 athletes across various sporting platforms, including football, wrestling, and rugby were detected with PIED.
- According to a Spanish registry, 8% of all drug-induced liver injury (DILI) was associated with the use of anabolic substances such as SARMs.
Chapter 3: Online Sale Statistics of SARMs
With the proliferation of e-commerce and digital marketing, businesses have increased their online presence and have started selling online. The SARM Industry is no exception in this regard.
- In one research where researchers used Google search techniques and searched SARM terms, it was found that almost 210 SARM products were up for online purchase.
- Out of these 210 products, 44 products were available for instant purchase, while others were labeled as out of stock, restricted, or discontinued.
- Among the products available for online purchase, the most common SARMs were Andarine, Ostarine, Ibutamoren, RA140, GW501516, and SR9009.
Chapter 4: Regulations Concerning the SARM Industry
- SARMs were added to the list of Schedule III controlled substances for regulation, same as that of anabolic steroids. This legislation was proposed under the Designer Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 2014.
- In the case of the United States, US Senators Orrin Hatch and Sheldon Whitehouse introduced the SARMs Control Act in 2018, which defines selective androgen receptor modulators as drugs designed to mimic the effects of testosterone.
Chapter 5: SARMs and Associated Health Problems
The most common health problems that have been associated with the use of SARMs, and are life-threatening, are as follows:
- Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
- Psychosis or hallucinations
- Sleep disorders
- Sexual dysfunctions
- Acute liver failure including liver injury
- Infertility in women
- Risk of miscarriage in pregnancies
- Testicular shrinkage
Chapter 6: Types of SARMS
Following are some common types of SARMs:
- Andarine (GTx-007, S4)
- LGD-3033
- Ligandrol (LGD-4033)
- Ostarine (Enobosarm, MK-2866, S22)
- Testolone (RAD-140)
- TT-701
- S23
S4 Andarine
Andarine (developmental code names GTx-007, S-4) is an investigational selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) developed by GTX, Inc for the treatment of conditions such as muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). [7]
Its anabolic activity has been viewed to be comparable to testosterone, but unlike anabolic steroids, Andarine does not suppress luteinizing hormone (LH) or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
As a result, Andarine is able to increase muscle and bone mass without affecting the prostate and does not result in many of the negative side effects that come with the use of anabolics.
Andarine has become popular as a cutting agent since it accomplishes fat loss by decreasing lipoprotein lipase (LPL) levels and decreasing water retention. Andarine will also prevent you from losing your hard-earned muscle mass and it may even help you to put on lean muscle mass.
S4 Andarine Overview
PCT Required: Yes
- Better recovery
- Improved fat loss
- Massive muscle gains
- Headaches
- Liver toxicity
- Vision issues
Some less common types of SARMs include:
- Endurobol (Cardarine, GW501516, GW1516)
- Ibutamoren (MK-677, Nutroba l)
- Stenabolic (SR9009)
- YK-11
Cardarine (GW-501516)
Cardarine is also known to be a PPAR (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) agonist. These receptors are located at various sites in the body, one of which is on muscles. Cardarine binds with PPAR and carries out multiple effects such as reduction in glucose metabolism, promoting fat loss, and enhancing endurance.
Cardarine enhances Lipid metabolization, meaning that it speeds up the rate at which your body takes stored body fat and converts it into energy. Bodybuilders often use this supplement when they are prepping for a contest, as it fits very well into a cutting stack.
Cardarine has been found to lower harmful LDL cholesterol and boost healthy HDL cholesterol.
That means that the drug can potentially help people to avoid suffering from heart attacks, cardiovascular disease, strokes, blocked arteries, and much more besides. It’s rare that performance-enhancing drugs actually promote cardiovascular health and well-being, but that is precisely what Cardarine appears to do, making it very popular.
Cardarine (GW-501516) Overview
PCT Required: No
- Better recovery
- Improved fat loss
- Stomach cramps
- Liver toxicity
Chapter 7: SARMs and Breast Cancer Statistics
The adverse impacts of SARMs were made evident from a first-in-human phase I clinical trial of a common SARM called RAD140 in 2022.
The trial included 22 postmenopausal women with stage IV breast cancer.
The following effects of SARM were concluded in women:
| Effects | Percentage |
| Elevated AST | 59.1% |
| Elevated ALT | 45.5% |
| Bilirubin | 27.3% |
| Hypophosphatemia | 22.7% |
| Weight Loss | 27.3% |
Other side effects included dehydration, vomiting, and anorexia.
Chapter 8: Misguided Selling of SARMs Statistics
In a recent study, the researchers determined that the products that are being sold and marketed as SARMs on the internet in the form of dietary supplements and other products have questionable ingredients listed on the contents of product labels.
Following were their findings:
| Percentage of Products | Conclusion |
| 52% products | Contained one or more SARMs |
| 39% products | Contained an unapproved drug that was not SARM |
| 9% Products | Had no active ingredient detected in them |
| 25% products | Contained substances that were not listed on the content list |
| 59% products | The number of active compounds in the product did not match the list on the label |
These were the disturbing statistics that imply that there is an alarming lack of regulatory oversight on these products which pose significant health risks and safety concerns.
Chapter 9: SARMs Encouragement on Social Media
The statistics show that the SARM industry relies heavily on its social media presence and testimonials to encourage consumers to buy their products.
The statistics below prove to be an eye-opener.
- In June 2021, a keyword search for “SARMs” across TikTok, produced a high amount of videos on the topic that led to more than 115 million views on the platform.
- The views represented an exponential monthly growth of more than 50% i.e., from the 67.7 million views observed on May 2nd, 2021 to 115 million views observed in June.
- In 2020, a TikTok document released by the NYTimes showed that 1/3 of TikTok users involved in SARMs-related content production were 14 years old or younger.
- This shows the rise of risks around the encouragement of SARM usage by social media influencers that have affected the susceptible youth.
- The trickle-down effect is evident in that people having more than 100,000 followers on social media are promoting SARMs as having minimal side effects without addressing the potential risks.
- Other social media platforms such as YouTube have also grown the popularity of SARMs-related content with over 1000 videos discussing its usage. This hike in number has been observed in the past two years.
- On YouTube, the keywords tagged “SARMs” are around 100 which displays that the view count of these videos adds up to more than 60,000,000 views.
- Other online platforms such as Reddit, have designated communities on SARM consumption and purchasing consisting of up to 50,000 members.
- A survey study conducted on Reddit targeting 9 SARM-focused sub-Reddits showed that 78% of people responded out of which 55.5% people responded that they developed at least one of the known side effects of SARMs.
- In the same study, it was noted that 72.3% of those reporting SARM usage were adolescents/young adults aged 18–29.
Chapter 10: SARMs Prevalence Statistics
Despite the absence of adequate regulatory mechanisms and associated health risks, the prevalence of SARMs has increased exponentially.
The statistics below make the picture further clear.
- There is uncertainty about the prevalence of SARM abuse; however, some estimates of the global lifetime prevalence rate are 3.3%, with a prevalence rate of 6.4% in males and 1.6% in females.
- In one British Army survey, it was found that 1.1% of the soldiers in training reported the use of anabolic steroids, 2.0% reported the use of growth hormone, and 4.2% reported the prevalence of other anabolic-androgenic agents.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10204391/
https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/recreational-use-of-selective-androgen-receptor-modulators
https://www.rootsanalysis.com/reports/sarm1-inhibitors-market.html
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00913847.2022.2078679
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2664459
https://www.wjgnet.com/2307-8960/full/v9/i16/4062.htm
Conclusion
In conclusion, as a significant alternative to anabolic steroids, Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) have emerged as a popular compound with reduced side effects.
The rising use and promotion of SARM is evident from the fact that the global SARMs market has experienced substantial growth with the market size value going over $31 million in 2020.
It is projected that a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 19.6% from 2021 to 2028 will be witnessed in the SARM industry.
However, the long-term concerns regarding health risks and consequences remain a great threat amid this exponential rise.
Hence, researchers, healthcare professionals, and regulatory bodies must help the general public better understand the risks associated with SARMs.