hormoneNot FDA-approvedResearch chemicalEnobosarm (MK-2866/ostarine) has never received FDA approval for any indication and is not a lawful dietary supplement ingredientThe FDA has issued public warnings about SARM products, including ostarine, sold online as research chemicals or supplements
MK-2866 SublingualBenefits, Dosage & Interactions
Also known as: Ostarine liquid
MK-2866, commonly known as Ostarine, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has been investigated for its potential to affect muscle and bone tissue. Research on MK-2866 Sublingual focuses on muscle and strength and bone and joint health. Dose, response, and interaction risk vary by individual, so use should be reviewed with a clinician.
How much MK-2866 Sublingual do people take?
Cited phase 2 trials studied oral enobosarm at 1-3 mg/day (cachexia trial) and 18 mg/day (breast cancer trial); none of the cited trials evaluated a sublingual formulation. Route reported: Oral tablet/capsule in both cited randomized trials; sublingual delivery is a research-chemical marketing format not studied in these trials. Frequency reported: Once-daily oral dosing in the cited trials. These are amounts documented in the cited studies and labels for MK-2866 Sublingual — they are reported for reference, not a recommendation. Regulatory status differs by country, including between the US (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). Confirm any amount with a licensed clinician before you take it.
See the full reported protocol and its sourcesResearched 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: Strong — 2 human randomized trials published.
Evidence strengthStrong · 4/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence
2 human randomized trials published.
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.
- Reported amounts
- Cited phase 2 trials studied oral enobosarm at 1-3 mg/day (cachexia trial) and 18 mg/day (breast cancer trial); none of the cited trials evaluated a sublingual formulation[1][2]
Reported for MK-2866 Sublingual in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.
References & evidence
Documents the MK-2866 Sublingual entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.
- [1]Effects of enobosarm on muscle wasting and physical function in patients with cancer: a double-blind, randomised controlled phase 2 trialDobs AS, Boccia RV, Croot CC, Gabrail NY, Dalton JT, Hancock ML, Johnston MA, Steiner MS · The Lancet Oncology · 2013 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 23499390
- [2]Activity and safety of enobosarm, a novel, oral, selective androgen receptor modulator, in androgen receptor-positive, estrogen receptor-positive, and HER2-negative advanced breast cancer (Study G200802): a randomised, open-label, multicentre, multinational, parallel design, phase 2 trialPalmieri C, Linden H, Birrell SN, Wheelwright S, Lim E, Schwartzberg LS, Dwyer AR, Hickey TE, Rugo HS, Cobb P, O'Shaughnessy JA, Johnston S, Brufsky A, Tilley WD, Overmoyer B · The Lancet Oncology · 2024 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 38342115
- [3]Nonsteroidal selective androgen receptor modulator Ostarine in cancer cachexiaZilbermint MF, Dobs AS · Future Oncology · 2009 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 19852734
What is MK-2866 Sublingual studied for?
What is MK-2866 Sublingual?
MK-2866, commonly known as Ostarine, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has been investigated for its potential to affect muscle and bone tissue. It is distinct from anabolic steroids in its proposed mechanism of action, aiming to selectively target androgen receptors in certain tissues while minimizing effects on other organs. Although often discussed in contexts related to muscle enhancement, MK-2866 is not approved for medical use in humans by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other major regulatory bodies. It has primarily been studied in preclinical and clinical research settings, often for conditions involving muscle wasting or bone loss. The sublingual form refers to its administration method, where the liquid is absorbed under the tongue. (Source: PubChem, FDA Website).
What does the research say about MK-2866 Sublingual?
Tap a section to expand.
MK-2866 functions by selectively binding to androgen receptors (ARs) in the body. Unlike traditional anabolic steroids, which bind to ARs throughout the body, SARMs like Ostarine are hypothesized to exhibit tissue-selective activation. This selectivity is intended to lead to anabolic effects, such as increased protein synthesis in muscle and bone cells, while theoretically reducing androgenic side effects in other tissues like the prostate or skin. By binding to ARs, MK-2866 can modulate the expression of genes involved in muscle growth and maintenance, as well as bone density. This selective modulation is the basis for its potential therapeutic applications in conditions characterized by muscle atrophy or osteoporosis. (Source: DrugBank, NIH PubMed research).
Research into MK-2866 has explored several potential benefits, primarily related to muscle and bone health. Studies have investigated its ability to increase lean muscle mass and improve physical function, particularly in individuals experiencing muscle wasting due to illness or age. For example, some clinical trials have observed improvements in total lean body mass and stair climb power in elderly subjects. Additionally, MK-2866 has been studied for its potential to improve bone mineral density. These effects are attributed to its selective activation of androgen receptors in muscle and bone. However, these are research findings, and MK-2866 is not an approved medication for these purposes. (Source: NIH clinical trials database, peer-reviewed scientific literature).
The evidence for MK-2866's effects comes primarily from preclinical studies and early-phase human clinical trials. A significant amount of research has focused on its efficacy in models of muscle wasting and osteoporosis. For instance, studies have shown that MK-2866 can increase lean body mass and muscle strength in healthy older men and postmenopausal women. Other research has indicated its potential to improve physical performance and reduce fat mass. These studies often compare MK-2866 to placebo, observing statistically significant differences in outcomes such as lean mass gains. However, the long-term safety and efficacy profile in humans are still under investigation, and larger, more comprehensive studies are generally needed before definitive conclusions regarding its medical utility can be drawn. The FDA has not approved MK-2866 for any human medical use, and it is listed as a prohibited substance by anti-doping agencies due to its performance-enhancing potential. (Source: Cochrane Library reviews of SARMs, U.S. Anti-Doping Agency).
While MK-2866 aims for tissue selectivity, it is not without potential side effects. Reported side effects in research settings have included transient decreases in levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or 'good' cholesterol), particularly with higher doses. Some users have also anecdotally reported mild gastrointestinal disturbances, headaches, or suppression of natural testosterone production, although the extent of suppression is generally considered less severe than that associated with anabolic steroids. The long-term safety profile of MK-2866 is not yet fully established due to its status as an investigational compound. As an unapproved substance, there are also risks associated with product quality and purity in the unregulated market. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
MK-2866 is not approved for human consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA. Its use carries inherent risks, including the potential for uncharacterized long-term side effects and interactions. Individuals using MK-2866 should be aware that products sold online may not contain the advertised contents, or may be contaminated with other substances. There is also a risk of liver toxicity, although studies generally suggest it may be lower than with some oral anabolic steroids. Furthermore, even with its purported selective action, it can still suppress natural hormone production, potentially leading to symptoms of low testosterone after discontinuation, possibly requiring post-cycle therapy. Athletes should note that MK-2866 is explicitly prohibited by major sports organizations. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Due to its investigational status and potential hormonal effects, MK-2866 is generally contraindicated in certain populations. This includes pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its effects on fetal development or infant health are unknown. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions, cardiovascular disease, or hormonal imbalances should avoid MK-2866 due to the potential for exacerbating these conditions. Those with a history of prostate issues, including prostate cancer, should also refrain from use due to the androgenic nature of the compound, despite its alleged selectivity. As it has not been approved for any medical indication, specific contraindications based on comprehensive clinical trials are still being elucidated, but caution is paramount for anyone considering its use. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Due to the investigational and unapproved nature of MK-2866, specific interactions with other drugs or supplements are not well-established through formal studies. However, caution is advised when combining it with any other compound that may affect liver function, such as certain medications that are metabolized by the liver, or other compounds known to have hepatotoxic potential. Combining it with other compounds that impact the endocrine system or hormone levels, including other SARMs, prohormones, or anabolic steroids, could exacerbate potential side effects, increase the risk of hormonal imbalance, or lead to unpredictable outcomes. As MK-2866 can affect lipid profiles, combining it with medications for cholesterol management should be done with extreme caution, and only under medical supervision. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
In research settings, MK-2866 has typically been administered once daily due to its approximately 24-hour half-life. For sublingual liquid formulations, the compound is held under the tongue for absorption before swallowing. The preference for administration with or without food is generally considered flexible, with no strong evidence suggesting one is superior over the other for absorption or efficacy. However, individual product instructions or research protocols should always be followed if available. The duration of use in studies has varied, but often involves cycles of several weeks, followed by a break. This is based on research protocols and not a recommendation for use. (Source: published pharmacokinetic studies).
Put it into practice
Reading about MK-2866 Sublingual is the first step — DoseRoutine helps you act on it. These free tools turn what you just learned into a routine.
What interacts with MK-2866 Sublingual?
| 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 MK-2866 Sublingual
MK-2866, or Ostarine, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has been investigated for its potential effects on muscle and bone tissue. It works by selectively binding to androgen receptors in these tissues, aiming to promote anabolic activity while minimizing effects on other organs. The 'liquid' and 'sublingual' refer to its administration format where it is absorbed under the tongue.
No, MK-2866 is not approved for medical use in humans by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other major regulatory bodies. It is an investigational compound that has been studied in clinical trials, primarily for conditions like muscle wasting and osteoporosis.
Reported side effects in research settings have included transient decreases in HDL cholesterol levels and mild suppression of natural testosterone. Other anecdotal reports suggest potential for mild gastrointestinal issues or headaches. The long-term safety profile is not fully established.
Yes, MK-2866 is prohibited by major anti-doping agencies, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), and can be detected in drug tests. Athletes using this compound risk sanctions from their respective sporting organizations.
Reliable information about MK-2866 can be found from scientific research databases like PubMed, clinical trial registries (e.g., NIH ClinicalTrials.gov), and reputable governmental health organizations or medical reference sites, such as PubChem or DrugBank. Be cautious of unregulated sources.
Interaction risk for MK-2866 Sublingual comes from the rest of the stack: other hormones, prescription medicines, hormone therapy and peptides. 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 MK-2866 Sublingual with no sign-up.
Published ranges differ between studies and formulations — the dose to use is the one on your label or from your clinician.
There is no single answer for MK-2866 Sublingual plus TRT. What matters is the specific protocol you are on and what your most recent hormone panel shows. 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
Pairing MK-2866 Sublingual with peptides has to be assessed one peptide at a time, because GLP-1 agonists, secretagogues, healing peptides and melanocortins do not share an interaction profile. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.
Published frequency for MK-2866 Sublingual 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 MK-2866 Sublingual 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 MK-2866 Sublingual 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.
Cited phase 2 trials studied oral enobosarm at 1-3 mg/day (cachexia trial) and 18 mg/day (breast cancer trial); none of the cited trials evaluated a sublingual formulation. Route reported: Oral tablet/capsule in both cited randomized trials; sublingual delivery is a research-chemical marketing format not studied in these trials. Frequency reported: Once-daily oral dosing in the cited trials. These are amounts documented in the cited studies and labels for MK-2866 Sublingual — they are reported for reference, not a recommendation. Regulatory status differs by country, including between the US (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). Confirm any amount with a licensed clinician before you take it.
Which studies looked at MK-2866 Sublingual?
Peer-reviewed research indexed in PubMed. Each entry links to the original record.
- 1.Effect of ostarine (enobosarm/GTX024), a selective androgen receptor modulator, on adipocyte metabolism in Wistar rats(opens PubMed in a new tab)Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society · 2019 · PMID 31642815 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31642815/
- 2.The Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator Ostarine Improves Bone Healing in Ovariectomized Rats(opens PubMed in a new tab)Calcified tissue international · 2020 · PMID 31531719 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31531719/
- 3.Drug-Induced Liver Injury From Enobosarm (Ostarine), a Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator(opens PubMed in a new tab)ACG case reports journal · 2021 · PMID 34368386 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34368386/
Sources cited on this page
Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.
- WADA Prohibited List(opens in a new tab)World Anti-Doping Agency · wada-ama.org/en/prohibited-list
Verify at
Publisher search links for MK-2866 Sublingual. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.
- PubChem(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · publisher search
- 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
- FDA-approved labeling (DailyMed)(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · publisher search
- ClinicalTrials.gov(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Cochrane Library(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Cochrane · 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 MK-2866 Sublingual?
Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:
MK-2866, commonly known as Ostarine, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has been investigated for its potential to affect muscle and bone tissue. Research on MK-2866 Sublingual focuses on muscle and strength and bone and joint health. Dose, response, and interaction risk vary by individual, so use should be reviewed with a clinician.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/mk-2866-sublingual
MK-2866 Sublingual cheat sheet
DoseRoutine cheat sheet · Hormone
MK-2866 Sublingual
MK-2866, commonly known as Ostarine, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that has been investigated for its potential to affect muscle and bone tissue.
Evidence
Strong
2 human randomized trials published.
Studied range
Cited phase 2 trials studied oral enobosarm at 1-3 mg/day (cachexia trial) and 18 mg/day (breast cancer trial); none of the cited trials evaluated a sublingual formulation
Route
Oral tablet/capsule in both cited randomized trials; sublingual delivery is a research-chemical marketing format not studied in these trials
Frequency studied
Once-daily oral dosing in the cited trials
Not FDA-approvedResearch chemicalEnobosarm (MK-2866/ostarine) has never received FDA approval for any indication and is not a lawful dietary supplement ingredientThe FDA has issued public warnings about SARM products, including ostarine, sold online as research chemicals or supplementsMuscleBone Joint
Key references
- Effects of enobosarm on muscle wasting and physical function in patients with cancer: a double-blind, randomised controlled phase 2 trial (2013)
- Activity and safety of enobosarm, a novel, oral, selective androgen receptor modulator, in androgen receptor-positive, estrogen receptor-positive, and HER2-negative advanced breast cancer (Study G200802): a randomised, open-label, multicentre, multinational, parallel design, phase 2 trial (2024)
- Nonsteroidal selective androgen receptor modulator Ostarine in cancer cachexia (2009)
Studied ranges, not dosing advice. Not medical advice — talk to a clinician. doseroutine.com/library/mk-2866-sublingual
Cite this page
Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:
DoseRoutine. (2026). MK-2866 Sublingual — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/mk-2866-sublingual
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