“You can’t gain and shred at the same time bro!” – something we know to be 100% true thermodynamically; unless you’re someone like Phil Heath or perhaps, if you make use of this wee little SARM called LGD 3033. With promises of increasing lipolysis and muscle gain at the same time, it has big shoes to fill…

Like all SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) LGD 3033 is selective, no surprise there. Thus, it’ll have fewer side effects than a topical steroid such as Trenbolone – but is that true? Can SARMs be that great with such few drawbacks?

Because SARMs occupy such a grey area in science currently, we need to take a good look at how LGD 3033 works, and how you can use it to get the best results.

What is LGD 3033?

LGD 3033 is what’s known as a SARM, or a Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator. SARMs are mostly experimental compounds designed to work in a manner comparable to steroids but without the common androgenic side effects associated with steroids.

As the name suggests, SARMs like LGD 3033 are selective. This trait means they are much more specific in their actions on the human body compared to steroids which kind of have a kitchen sink approach, the latter just blasting all receptors in sight.

LGD 3033 is the newer version of LGD 4033 from Ligand Pharmaceuticals. Being a different version, there are of course differences between the two. Originally, both were designed as a treatment for osteoporosis (1).

How does LGD 3033 work?

Like all SARMs, LGD 3033 bind to certain receptors to act upon them. SARMs bind to androgen receptors to stimulate change in your DNA resulting in muscle growth, fat loss, and more. This is very similar to the way that Testosterone work, however using exogenous testosterone has (dose-dependent) larger side effects.

In stark contrast to using exogenous testosterone, using SARMs doesn’t have these stereotypical side effects. Side effects associated with testosterone include testicular shutdown, prostate growth, hair loss, and if not managed even estrogenic sides (2).

While LGD 3033 is a SARM and shouldn’t have suppressive effects on natural testosterone, it is very common knowledge that makes use of a PCT or at least a PCT Supplement to help combat the suppressive effects that LGD 3033 has.

Benefits of LGD 3033

When compared to LGD 4033, LGD seems to have more fat-burning effects. However, don’t limit LGD 3033 to only being a better fat burner…

1) Muscular Hypertrophy

Due to the nature in which LGD 3033 works upon the androgen receptors, it will result in enhanced nitrogen retention. This will cause increased muscle protein synthesis, which is just fancy for “You gonna gain bruh!”. You’ll also look a tad fuller, which is great if you’re using LGD 3033 for its aesthetic properties.

2) Fat Loss

As mentioned before, you will see accelerated fat loss. LGD 3033 increases the metabolic activity of the body, therefore you’ll just burn more energy just going about your day. Bonus, the increase in muscle mass will lead to further fat loss (not massive but every bit counts) due to the “bro science” that bigger dudes just burn more calories – this isn’t bro science it’s just a fact.

3) Increased Bone Density

This is for the strong boys & gals. LGD 3033 has been shown in a recent study to increase bone density in rats. Increased bone density will allow you (or your bones at least) to handle heavier loads whilst competing in strength sports.

4) Enhanced Recovery

With all androgenic compounds, you will see an increase in recovery, as more blood flow can force more nutrients toward the muscles resulting in more recovery.

LGD 3033 Usage in Bodybuilding

LGD 3033 works more or less the same way as other SARMs. The compound, by binding to androgen receptors of different tissues, especially the skeletal muscles, leads to increased protein synthesis and enhanced lean muscle mass. 

This also results in greater endurance and strength during regular workouts. The studied dose for LGD 3033 ranges from 10-20 mg/day.

Side Effects of LGD 3033

Most SARMs have minimal side effects, however, LGD does have a few side effects that are worth mentioning.

1) Possible Testosterone Suppression

SARMs don’t usually suppress testosterone or LH (Luteinizing hormone) in the male body, however, some SARMs like YK-11, S23, and possibly LGD 3033 tend to do this. Due to their suppressive nature, you will have to make use of a SERM to stimulate the LH in your body – Enclomiphene, Nolvadex or Clomid will do.

2) Increased Libido and Aggression

Due to the androgenic nature of the compound, an increase in sex drive and aggression are going to be noticed. Not necessarily bad effects, but aggression is something that needs to be managed if you are very prone to be aggressive anyways.

3) Cholesterol

Again, due to the nature in which LGD 3033 works, the androgenic effects it has on the body can result in an increase in bad cholesterol (LDL) and a decrease in good cholesterol (HDL). This might be something that you don’t want to pay attention to but beware. Blood Lipids are nothing to play with,

Who should use LGD 3033?

Anyone looking to have a good boost in training, in regards to fat loss and muscle gain will benefit from LGD 3033. Do keep in mind that this is no miracle pill and that you’ll still have to put in the work, diet, and train. Imagine this SARM (and every SARM in general) to be the icing on the cake.

I would not recommend this for anyone suffering from high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Also, I cannot imagine that this will be great for your cardiovascular system. Lastly, if you’re uncomfortable running the risk of having endogenous testosterone suppressed, then maybe look for a milder SARM for fat loss.

How to use LGD 3033

Hopefully, the first step you take is to make sure you’re healthy and if you’re even capable of using LGD 3033. After you’ve made the decision that you are indeed in good enough health to use it, there are a few things to keep in mind. The half-life of this oral compound is about 6 hours, thus it is best taken multiple times a day – splitting the dose up equally (Usually three times).

1) Beginner Cycles

Keep in mind a higher dose will result in more side effects.

2) More Experienced Cycles

This does not include the PCT part which I highly recommend since LGD 3033 is suppressive.

LGD 3033 PCT

Due to the suppressive nature of LGD 3033, a PCT is highly advisable. Going even further, managing estrogenic side effects whilst on your cycle might be a good idea, but obviously person dependent. I don’t think there is a need for Aromasin or another AI (Aromatase Inhibitor) – however, an over-the-counter AI supplement like Estrogenix from Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals might be a good idea.

Regarding PCT, the type and intensity of the product you use will be determined by how aggressive your LGD 3033 cycle was. For very mild cycles, you could get away with just using an over-the-counter PCT supplement like ArimiPlex from Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals which will do you just fine.

Is LGD 3033 legal?

SARMs can currently be sold as “Research Products only. Thus, they need to be sold as “experimental”, as it hasn’t been approved by the FDA. SARMs are also on the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) banned list.

Where can I buy LGD 3033?

Finding LGD 3033 retailers online is quite hard at the moment, but there are some alternatives you can look to get similar results.

Andarine S4

Andarine S4 can yield similar fat loss results, while also giving you that dry look that is associated with LGD 3033

Ostarine MK 2866

Ostarine MK 2866 is widely known as the beginner SARM because it is much milder in its execution. Regardless, Ostarine will still be great for a fat-loss phase whilst retaining a significant amount of muscle.

LGD 3033 vs Other SARMs

1) LGD 3033 vs LGD 4033

The first one that springs to mind obviously. Even though they were developed by the same company, they have slightly different applications. LGD 3033 is going to have a greater effect on fat loss compared to LGD 4033. Also, it’s a whole lot easier getting your hands on the latter.

2) LGD 3033 vs Cardarine

Cardarine is one of the most popular SARMs for fat loss. Compared to LGD 3033, fat loss results can be similar (although I think you’ll get more from LGD 3033). LGD 3033 does have the added effect of being better for muscle retention, however, Cardarine might be better for cholesterol levels…

FAQs about LGD 3033

1) Does LGD 3033 mess with Testosterone

Yes. LGD 3033 can be very suppressive, thus a PCT is highly recommended. Even managing estrogen whilst on cycle is also something to consider, as messing with testosterone results in alterations in estrogen levels as well.

2) Is LGD 3033 good for bulking?

Good? Yes. The best? No. You use the best tools for the job at hand, and LGD 3033 is more of a fat-burning compound. Muscle building, SARMs include things like YK-11, and LGD 4033 are going to be a better tool for bulking.

3) How safe is Ligandrol?

This one is hard to answer. Medically, no they aren’t because otherwise the FDA would approve them. Anecdotally, they appear to be – with various of users having positive results when using conservative doses with a good PCT in place as well.

4) Which SARM is the Strongest?

The strongest SARM is a toss-up between RAD 140 and S23.

Conclusion

LGD 3033 is a great little compound, although it is extremely hard to find at the moment, to cut weight it can do you wonders – granted you pay the compound the respect it deserves and use it wisely.