hormoneNot FDA-approvedResearch chemicalNo published human dosing trial; literature is limited to anti-doping detection and one positive-test case reportSold online as a research chemical, not an approved drugProhibited in sport by WADA as a SARM
AndarineBenefits, Dosage & Interactions
Also known as: S-4
Andarine, also known as S-4, is an investigational compound categorized as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). SARMs are designed to produce similar effects to anabolic steroids, such as increased muscle and bone density, but with reduced androgenic side effects in non-skeletal muscle tissues.
Researched by DoseRoutine Research TeamReviewed for accuracy by Nicholas Alexander, RSE, SO, PMPLast updated Educational reference only — not medical advice. Always confirm dosing and safety decisions with a licensed clinician.
Evidence: Limited — Human observational or case data only — no randomized trials.
Evidence strengthLimited · 2/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence
Human observational or case data only — no randomized trials.
Plasma half-life
Not established
Default unit
mg
What published protocols report
Ranges documented in the literature, shown for reference. DoseRoutine does not recommend an amount — your prescriber or the product label sets the dose.
- Route studied
- Oral in the black-market product analyzed by Thevis 2009; no published dosing trial[3]
Reported for Andarine in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.
References & evidence
Documents the Andarine entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.
- [1]SARM-S4 and metabolites detection in sports drug testing: a case reportGrata E, Perrenoud L, Saugy M, Baume N · Forensic Science International · 2011 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 21816554
- [2]Mass spectrometric characterization of urinary metabolites of the selective androgen receptor modulator andarine (S-4) for routine doping control purposesThevis M, Thomas A, Fusshöller G, et al. · Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry · 2010 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 20623476
- [3]Detection of the arylpropionamide-derived selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) S-4 (Andarine) in a black-market productThevis M, Geyer H, Kamber M, Schänzer W · Drug Testing and Analysis · 2009 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 20355219
References & Evidence
Sources on this page that document Andarine dosing, timing and safety.
- [1]National Center for Biotechnology Information View source
Educational information only — not medical advice. Dose ranges vary by person, indication and prescriber.
What is Andarine studied for?
What is Andarine?Sources for this section: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Andarine, also known as S-4, is an investigational compound categorized as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). SARMs are designed to produce similar effects to anabolic steroids, such as increased muscle and bone density, but with reduced androgenic side effects in non-skeletal muscle tissues. Andarine was initially developed by GTX, Inc. for the treatment of conditions like muscle wasting and osteoporosis. Its mechanism involves selectively binding to androgen receptors in target tissues. While it has been the subject of preclinical and some clinical research, Andarine is not approved for human use by regulatory bodies like the FDA or EMA. It is often encountered in the context of research chemicals or illicit performance-enhancing substances. Due to its unapproved status, there is limited clinical data on its long-term safety and efficacy in humans (source: PubChem, DrugBank).
What does the research say about Andarine?
Tap a section to expand.
Andarine functions as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) by binding to androgen receptors (ARs) with high affinity. Unlike traditional anabolic steroids, which tend to activate ARs throughout the body, SARMs are hypothesized to exhibit tissue-selective activation. In the case of Andarine, studies suggest it acts as a partial agonist at ARs, particularly in muscle and bone tissues. This partial agonism means it can stimulate AR activity, albeit potentially to a lesser extent than full agonists, and is thought to reduce the overall androgenic side effects typically associated with steroids, such as those impacting the prostate or sebaceous glands. The selective action is believed to be mediated by differential co-regulator recruitment depending on the target tissue. Preclinical research indicates that Andarine can promote anabolism in muscle and bone by increasing protein synthesis and enhancing bone mineral density, without significant androgenic effects in other tissues observed in some animal models (source: DrugBank, various scientific literature).
Source for this section: Sources for How does Andarine work?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
As an investigational compound, Andarine has been studied for potential benefits related to muscle and bone health, primarily in preclinical settings. The hypothesized benefits stem from its selective androgen receptor modulating activity. Early research indicated potential for:
* **Increased Lean Muscle Mass:** Preclinical studies suggested Andarine could promote anabolism in skeletal muscle, potentially leading to gains in muscle mass and strength in muscle wasting conditions (source: scientific literature).
* **Bone Density Improvement:** Andarine has shown promise in animal models for enhancing bone mineral density, which could be relevant for conditions like osteoporosis (source: scientific literature).
* **Mitigation of Muscle Wasting:** Its anabolic properties were explored as a treatment for cachexia or other muscle-wasting diseases (source: scientific literature).
It is crucial to understand that these potential benefits are derived mainly from research, primarily in animal models or *in vitro* studies, and robust human clinical trial data establishing consistent benefits and safe use is limited due to its unapproved status (source: PubChem, DrugBank).
The evidence base for Andarine (S-4) is primarily derived from preclinical studies and early-stage research. Much of the publicly available information comes from studies conducted by GTX, Inc., the original developer, and from independent academic research. These studies often involved animal models (e.g., rats) to evaluate its effects on muscle tissue, bone density, and prostate size compared to testosterone. Some studies indicated an increase in lean body mass and bone mineral density while showing less pronounced androgenic effects on the prostate compared to traditional anabolic agents. However, these findings do not directly translate to human efficacy and safety. Human clinical trials for Andarine have been limited, and it has not progressed through the full regulatory approval process in any major jurisdiction. Consequently, there is a lack of large-scale, placebo-controlled human trials proving its long-term benefits and safety profile. The use of Andarine in humans outside of a formal research setting is experimental and not supported by extensive clinical evidence (source: scientific literature, DrugBank).
As an unapproved and investigational compound, the full spectrum of potential side effects of Andarine in humans is not well-established. However, based on anecdotal reports and some limited data, certain side effects have been reported or are hypothesized due to its mechanism of action:
* **Visual Disturbances:** One of the most commonly reported side effects is impaired vision, particularly difficulty with night vision, blurred vision, or a yellowish tint to vision. This effect is often described as dose-dependent and reversible upon cessation.
* **Testosterone Suppression:** Like other compounds that interact with androgen receptors, Andarine may suppress natural testosterone production, potentially leading to symptoms like fatigue, decreased libido, and mood changes.
* **Liver Toxicity:** While SARMs are often presented as liver-friendly, some anecdotal reports and concerns exist regarding potential liver strain or damage, especially with prolonged use or high doses.
* **Hair Loss/Androgenic Side Effects:** Although designed to be selective, some individuals have reported androgenic side effects such as hair thinning or increased body hair.
* **Lipid Profile Changes:** Potential alterations to cholesterol levels, including decreases in HDL (good cholesterol), have been reported with SARM use.
* **Cardiovascular Strain:** The long-term effects on cardiovascular health are unknown.
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Due to its status as an unapproved investigational compound, there are significant warnings associated with the use of Andarine. Lack of regulatory oversight means its quality, purity, and concentration are not guaranteed when sourced from illicit channels. Users may be exposed to mislabeled or contaminated products. The long-term safety profile in humans is unknown, and the potential for severe or irreversible adverse effects cannot be excluded. Furthermore, Andarine is often banned by sports organizations and can lead to disqualification. Individuals should be aware that self-experimentation with unapproved compounds carries inherent risks to health and legal standing. Specific warnings include the potential for visual disturbances, which can impair daily activities like driving, and the risk of hormonal disturbances requiring medical intervention.
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Given that Andarine is an unapproved and investigational compound with an unestablished safety profile in humans, there are no officially recognized medical contraindications. However, based on its proposed mechanism of action and reported side effects, it would be prudent to assume it should be avoided by:
* **Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions:** Due to potential liver toxicity.
* **Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions:** Given the unknown effects on heart health and lipid profiles.
* **Individuals with visual impairments or eye conditions:** Due to documented visual disturbances associated with Andarine.
* **Pregnant or breastfeeding women:** Due to potential hormonal effects that could harm fetal development or be passed through breast milk.
* **Children and adolescents:** Due to the potential for impacting developing hormonal systems and bone growth.
* **Individuals with prostate issues:** As some SARMs can still exert androgenic effects on the prostate.
* **Individuals taking medications that affect hormones or the liver:** Due to potential drug interactions.
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Due to its unapproved status and limited clinical data, specific drug-drug interaction studies for Andarine are scarce. Therefore, caution should be exercised, and it is generally advisable to avoid combining Andarine with any other medications or supplements that could potentially interact. Key considerations for potential interactions include:
* **Liver-toxic medications:** Combining Andarine with other drugs known to be hepatotoxic (e.g., certain antifungals, statins, acetaminophen in high doses) could increase the risk of liver damage.
* **Hormonal agents:** Concurrent use with other anabolic agents, hormones, or hormone-modulating drugs could exacerbate hormonal imbalances or side effects.
* **Medications affecting vision:** Given the reported visual side effects of Andarine, combining it with other drugs that can affect vision is ill-advised.
* **Blood thinners (anticoagulants):** Any potential impact on liver function or coagulation factors could theoretically alter the effects of blood thinners.
The absence of known interactions does not imply safety; rather, it reflects a lack of research. Always assume potential for adverse interactions with unapproved compounds.
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Andarine has a reported half-life of approximately 4 hours, suggesting it clears from the body relatively quickly. In research settings or among users, administration is typically reported as multiple times per day (e.g., twice or three times daily) to maintain more stable levels in the bloodstream, given its short half-life. However, since this compound is not approved for human use, there is no medically established or recommended timing protocol. Individual needs vary — talk to a licensed clinician.
Source for this section: Sources for When should you take Andarine?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Put it into practice
Reading about Andarine is the first step — DoseRoutine helps you act on it. These free tools turn what you just learned into a routine.
What interacts with Andarine?
| Interacts with | Severity | Type | What happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Any peptide + hormone | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | Injectable peptides plus hormones can have overlapping or compounding effects that aren't always well characterized.Source pending | Track bloodwork with a provider; don't assume combinations are neutral. |
Frequently asked questions about Andarine
Andarine, or S-4, is an investigational selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It was developed to exert anabolic effects on muscle and bone tissue with fewer androgenic side effects compared to traditional steroids. It is not approved for human use by regulatory bodies.
Andarine is not approved for therapeutic use in humans in many countries. Its sale and distribution typically fall into a 'research chemical' category where it is not intended for human consumption. It is also banned by major sports organizations.
The most commonly reported side effect is visual disturbance, such as difficulty with night vision or a yellowish tint. Other potential side effects include natural testosterone suppression, and concerns exist regarding liver strain and lipid profile changes. The full range of effects is not widely studied in humans.
Andarine works by selectively binding to androgen receptors in the body, primarily in muscle and bone tissue. This binding stimulates anabolic processes, promoting muscle growth and bone density, while aiming to minimize effects on other tissues like the prostate.
Andarine is an investigational compound and is not approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA or EMA for the treatment of any medical condition. Its use outside of controlled research settings is not medically recommended.
Andarine is a hormone, and interactions are possible with prescriptions, hormones, peptides and other supplements in the same routine. Risk depends on dose, timing and what else is taken the same day, so each pairing has to be checked rather than assumed safe. The free checker at https://doseroutine.com/interaction-checker covers Andarine with no sign-up.
Ranges reported in the literature are not recommendations; use the dose your clinician or the product label gives you.
Combining a hormone like Andarine with TRT is usually a question of labs rather than a blanket yes or no: the ester, injection interval and any aromatase inhibitor all change the answer. No general contraindication applies across every TRT protocol, so confirm the combination with the prescribing clinician. See the free TRT interaction reference: https://doseroutine.com/trt-supplement-interactions
Each peptide class carries its own profile against Andarine: a healing peptide raises different questions than a GLP-1 agonist or a growth-hormone secretagogue. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.
Published frequency for Andarine varies by protocol and formulation, so the label or prescription is what sets it. Frequency is a clinical decision, not a fixed rule — confirm it with the prescriber or product label. Comparison of apps that keep a schedule like this: https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps
The effect of a missed dose of Andarine depends on the protocol and formulation you are on. Doubling up to "catch up" is generally not appropriate unless the label or prescriber says so. Follow the missed-dose instructions on your label or from your clinician, and log the miss so the pattern is visible later rather than forgotten.
For Andarine the useful record is the dose, the time it was actually taken, and what else was taken in the same window. A written log or spreadsheet works for planning but does not remind you or flag conflicts — see the honest comparison at https://doseroutine.com/vs/spreadsheet and the wider roundup at https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps — DoseRoutine tracks the schedule, the remaining supply and interactions with the rest of your routine in one place.
Sources cited on this page
Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.
- PubChem CID 9824562(opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/9824562
- WADA Prohibited List(opens in a new tab)World Anti-Doping Agency · wada-ama.org/en/prohibited-list
Verify at
Publisher search links for Andarine. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.
- DrugBank(publisher search, opens in a new tab)DrugBank Online · publisher search
- PubMed literature search(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- DailyMed labeling archive(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Wikipedia entry(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Wikipedia · publisher search
DoseRoutine compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician. How we source and review this information.
What is the short answer on Andarine?
Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:
Andarine, also known as S-4, is an investigational compound categorized as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). SARMs are designed to produce similar effects to anabolic steroids, such as increased muscle and bone density, but with reduced androgenic side effects in non-skeletal muscle tissues.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/andarine
Andarine cheat sheet
DoseRoutine cheat sheet · Hormone
Andarine
Andarine, also known as S-4, is an investigational compound categorized as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). SARMs are designed to produce similar effects to anabolic steroids, such as increased muscle and bone density, but with reduced androgenic side effects in non-skeletal muscle tissues.
Evidence
Limited
Human observational or case data only — no randomized trials.
Route
Oral in the black-market product analyzed by Thevis 2009; no published dosing trial
Not FDA-approvedResearch chemicalNo published human dosing trial; literature is limited to anti-doping detection and one positive-test case reportSold online as a research chemical, not an approved drugProhibited in sport by WADA as a SARMBone JointMuscleTestosterone
Key references
- SARM-S4 and metabolites detection in sports drug testing: a case report (2011)
- Mass spectrometric characterization of urinary metabolites of the selective androgen receptor modulator andarine (S-4) for routine doping control purposes (2010)
- Detection of the arylpropionamide-derived selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) S-4 (Andarine) in a black-market product (2009)
Studied ranges, not dosing advice. Not medical advice — talk to a clinician. doseroutine.com/library/andarine
Cite this page
Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:
DoseRoutine. (2026). Andarine — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/andarine
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