Ostarine (MK-2866): Side Effects, Dosage, Before & After, & Safe Alternatives

ostarine mk-2866

Muscle atrophy is one of the common muscle wasting diseases in the United States and this could cause weakened muscles.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 5% of adults 60 years old and above report weak muscle strength. Also from the report of the CDC, this prevalence increases with age.

Fortunately, there are anabolic steroids like the Ostarine MK-2866 that can help address this issue, and in this article, you will learn more about this Ostarine drug and what is the best alternative for it.

Ostarine Safe & Legal Alternative

The best safe and legal alternative to Ostarine (MK-2866) is CrazyBulk OSTA 2866.

Here’s why:

  • OSTA 2866 boosts insane muscle growth
  • Helps you preserve muscle mass
  • Increases your muscle size
  • Melts your fat & reveals your shredded physique

So make sure to check it out. It might just be the best money you’ll spend in 2025.

Ostarine: All You Need to Know + Safe Alternatives & Where to Buy

What is Ostalone Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator?

Also known as Enobosarm, Ostarine MK-2866 is an investigational drug that is used to increase muscle growth, vascularity, and contractility.

This anabolic steroid is developed by the company GTx Inc.

This company is formerly under the Merck & Company.

Additionally, it is one of the selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) that are not approved by the FDA. Other popular SARMs include the RAD-140 Testolone.

Ostarine Indications

Initially, based on research published in the J Bone Miner Metab, this anabolic steroid was made to treat wasting and manage osteoporosis.

Today, it is used by some athletes and gym enthusiasts to enhance physical function.

According to a study published in the Calcif Tissue Int., aside from muscle loss prevention and bone healing, other uses of the Ostarine MK-2866 selective androgen receptor modulator include the following:

  • Cardiometabolic health conditions
  • Management of AIDS
  • Breast cancer prevention
  • Improves insulin sensitivity

In Phase III clinical trials of this Ostarine drug, it was reported that cancer patients, especially those with lung cancer would also benefit from the use of this substance.

Contraindications with Ostarine MK-2866

The Ostarine MK-2866 provides many health benefits to its users. However, not all interested individuals can use this Ostarine drug.

There are some contraindications with Ostarine MK-2866 and some of these will be discussed in this section.

1) Postmenopausal women

In one clinical trial in the United States, it was reported that the Ostarine selective androgen receptor modulator is contraindicated in postmenopausal women

This is because the use of this hormone replacement therapy in these women is associated with severe side effects such as the following:

  • Increased risk of coronary heart disease
  • Breast cancer
  • Stroke or heart attack
  • Venous thromboembolism

If women would like to use these anabolic steroids to improve their physical function, it is highly recommended for them to consider the selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) rather than selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs).

In one scientific research published in The Journal Steroid of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, it was reported that the use of SERMs in postmenopausal women comes with lesser adverse reactions to the breast and uterus while providing positive effects on skeletal muscle. 

2) Pregnant and lactating women

Based on clinical trials, it was reported that Ostarine may cause urogenital diseases and pregnancy complications.

Because of these, Ostarine is highly contraindicated to pregnant women.

In addition, the Ostarine MK-2866 is categorized under pregnancy category X. This means that this Ostarine drug is teratogenic and may cause fetal abnormalities or deformities.

3) Patients with liver diseases

Ostarine MK-2866 is also contraindicated to patients with liver disease, including those with past liver disorders. According to scientific research from Canada, the Ostarine drug can cause drug-induced liver injury.

This injury is manifested by jaundice and an increase in the levels of liver enzymes.

Although anabolic steroids like Ostarine can provide a positive effect on your skeletal muscle size, these drugs can still damage your organs, especially the liver.

The Cons of Ostarine MK-2866

Most selective androgen receptor modulators target the androgen receptors on the bone and muscle tissues.

Although the Ostarine drug can provide positive effects in healing the muscles faster, its use still comes with disadvantages.

Some of these advantages, including the side effects, will be discussed in this section.

1) May need to follow PCT

Based on other Ostarine reviews, this is the mildest selective androgen receptor modulator. However, this does not mean that Ostarine does not require PCT.

The use of Ostarine requires PCT or post-cycle therapy.

This is a period where anabolic steroid users should follow a specific therapy to restore their body’s natural hormone production.

Generally, the Ostarine’s cycle lasts between 2-6 weeks. However, this period would still depend on which SARMs the patient is using.

2) Possible side effects

There are possible side effects with the use of Ostarine Mk-2866. Some of these include acne, hair growth, alopecia, and breast growth in males.

In case users of the Ostarine MK-2866 experience any of these, it is highly recommended to seek medical help to prevent further dangerous adverse events.

According to a study in the United States, the most common side effect of using Ostarine is a heart attack.

This means that those with major heart diseases should seek consultation from a medical doctor before using the drug.

There are also some reports that the Ostarine drug can reduce testosterone production.

So, to restore the natural testosterone in the body, the PCT discussed above is necessary.

3) Not approved by the FDA

Again, Ostarine is an investigational drug, and like other natural supplements, these substances are not approved by the FDA.

Although the facilities where these substances are manufactured are regulated by the FDA, it does not mean that their uses and effects on lean muscle mass are recognized by the government body.

What People Say About the Ostarine MK-2866

It is illegal to buy this drug without any prescription, especially because this drug is still an investigational one.

Most of those who purchase this substance buy it for research purposes.

However, there are still some Ostarine users that see the potential benefits of this drug, and in this section, we will take a look at what these people say.

The most common user review is that the Ostarine anabolic steroid could help build muscle mass.

It could also support fat loss and speed up muscle recovery time. 

Based on another review, a user reports that this drug can also prevent muscle wasting.

Aside from enhancing skeletal muscle health, it is also useful for other health conditions like tendonitis.

This simply means that this drug comes with muscle tissue anti-inflammatory effects.

Lastly, a user also reported that Ostarine can reduce body fat levels. It enhances metabolism, and aside from this, it also provides positive effects on mental health.

For potential users of this drug, it is worth mentioning that Ostarine can improve both cognition and overall physical function in healthy elderly men and postmenopausal women.

What We Like About this SARM: The Pros of Ostarine

In the bodybuilding world, Ostarine is a popular drug that targets androgen receptors.

Eventually, this would trigger muscle protein synthesis that could lead to enhanced muscle growth.

But, what are the benefits these users could get from this drug? In this section, we will discuss the advantages of taking Ostarine.

1) Build lean muscle mass

Anabolic steroids that target androgen receptors are mainly used to increase lean body mass. For bodybuilders, these drugs help tone the muscles.

Most of these users take the Ostarine and Ligandrol anabolic steroids as they are safe for stacking.

In one research from Germany, it was reported that Ostarine and Ligandrol improve muscle tissue.

Using an ovariectomized rat model, it was found that these drugs can prevent muscle wasting or muscle loss and enhance muscle growth.

However, in the same study, it was also stated that there are some adverse events in using these two anabolic steroids.

Some of these side effects include uterotrophic effects at higher dosages.

In another study published in the J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle, it was reported that Ostarine has shown statistically significant improvements in total lean body mass without showing the usual negative side effects, unlike anabolic steroids.

In this study between two treatment groups, Ostarine showed to be beneficial in increasing total lean body mass, preventing muscle loss, and supporting the immune system from chronic illnesses.

2) Treatment of stress urinary incontinence

It is also interesting to know that Ostarine helps in treating stress urinary incontinence.

This is a condition where your urine leaks every time you cough, laugh, sneeze, or when you put too much pressure on your bladder.

Although this is a potential off-label use, the company announced that this indication failed to achieve its primary endpoint in women.

Still, the company continues the phase II trials amidst this concern as this drug is still beneficial for elderly men.

3) Burning of body fat

Another great thing about the Ostarine drug is that it can help burn body fat.

The drugs target the androgen receptors, thereby boosting metabolism and triggering the body’s thermogenesis, a process of stimulating heat production.

So, for those who want to achieve healthy body weight, this drug may be of great help.

Along with this, those who are obese will surely appreciate the Ostarine anabolic steroid.

It comes with antidiabetic properties that increase insulin sensitivity.

Keep in mind that obese patients are at a high risk of developing insulin resistance, making them more prone to diabetes. 

Remember that you have insulin resistance, you can also have some issues with your energy levels because the cells in your muscles and fat do not respond well to the insulin.

Fortunately, Ostarine works by decreasing insulin resistance in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

4) Nootropic effects

Moving forward, there was also one user report that the Ostarine drug can improve mental function.

It can enhance mood and focus, and this is because this drug comes with nootropic effects.

Consistent with a study published in Translational Andrology and Urology, it was reported that the Ostarine drug also targets the androgen receptors in the brain.

Eventually, this could improve the visual memory of elderly men.

5) Anti-cancer

Again, the Ostarine drug comes with anti-cancer effects.

In one clinical data, it was reported that the Ostarine drug can induce up to a 50% benefit rate for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Going back 40 years ago, Enobosarm has been a proven drug treatment for breast cancer.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, in different treatment groups, it was reported that Ostarine works by suppressing the tumor and preventing it from spreading and growing.

However, although Ostarine is beneficial for cancer patients, it is still highly recommended to seek consultation from a medical doctor before using this drug to avoid further health complications, especially when these patients want to use Ostarine for increasing muscle mass.

What to Watch Out For When Buying Ostarine

For athletes, bodybuilders, and gym enthusiasts who want to take Ostarine, keep in mind that this drug is not approved by the FDA.

Ostarine is still an investigational drug undergoing many clinical trials.

There are also some reports that Ostarine causes positive tests on drug tests. For athletes, these false-positive results may halt them from joining certain sports.

Although Ostarine can provide many health benefits to your total lean body mass, it also comes with dangerous side effects such as heart attack, blood disorders, excessive hair loss or hair growth, and breast growth in males.

In addition, this drug is only safe to be used by adults above 18 years old.

To understand more about this Ostarine drug, such as its chemical structure, other effects on the system, and safety profile, you can click here

Buying Guide for Ostarine

There are many anabolic steroids on the market and most of these are used to build muscle mass.

However, not all of these are safe to use.

In this section, you will be provided a buying guide when purchasing Ostarine.

With regards to the route of administration, Ostarine comes in capsule form. Usually, adults take 3 mg of the drug daily.

However, the Ostarine dosage may change depending on the health condition of the user.

The Legal Ostarine Alternative: OSTA 2866

OSTA 2866

Along with other SARMs, Ostarine is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Since Ostarine causes some health risks and may provide a false-positive drug test result, many users tend to look for natural alternatives. 

If you are one of these people, you might want to consider the OSTA 2866 by Crazy Bulk.

Like the Ostarine drug, this dietary supplement can also build muscle mass, boost muscle growth, boost testosterone levels, increase muscle size, and prevent muscle loss.

This supplement is also not approved by the FDA but the facility where it is manufactured is approved by the government agency.

1) OSTA 2866 Formulation

The Ostarine alternative, called OSTA 2688, is formulated using all-natural ingredients. This is very beneficial, especially for those who want to avoid the dangerous effects of anabolic steroids.

These ingredients include magnesium, zinc, Salacia, Southern ginseng extract, Fennel root extract, cinnamon extract, and reishi mushroom extract.

The magnesium and zinc contents of this Ostarine alternative supplement are used to support both bone and tissue health.

They are the ones responsible for managing inflammation in the muscles, joints, and tendons.

On the other hand, the Salacia plant extract helps reduce weight and can burn fat.

According to a study in Japan, this ingredient can be used to treat diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and metabolism disorders.

Furthermore, the Southern ginseng extract acts as an energy enhancer. Aside from this, it also improves lean body mass.

Consistent with a study from Spain, this plant extract prevents muscle and brain fatigue.

There is also a Fennel root extract and this ingredient can help you reduce your appetite.

It helps you curb your unhealthy cravings, thereby promoting weight loss.

According to a study in China, this ingredient also supports nutrient absorption, digestion, and immunity.

Additionally, there is this cinnamon extract and this is used to support gut health.

It keeps the supplement gentle on the stomach and it can also help in managing blood pressure. Some reports say that cinnamon extract is beneficial for the aging brain.

Lastly, the reishi mushroom extract is used to support overall health.

It can improve sleep, support immunity, and reduce stress and anxiety.

According to a study from Turkey, the reishi mushroom extract is anti-cancer, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic.

2) OSTA 2866 Safe Use

Although OSTA 2866 is safer and more preferred nowadays than the anabolic steroid Ostarine, users of this supplement should still know its safe use.

According to the company, the OSTA 2866 supplement should be used for 3 months to see the lean body mass improvements.

To use the OSTA 2866 supplement, take 4 capsules 30 to 45 minutes before your training session.

For better muscle mass enhancement, it is advised to use this supplement in conjunction with a healthy diet and proper exercise.

Users of this supplement also consider other SARMs alternatives from Brutal Force. The supplements from Brutal Force are also great for bulking and cutting.

According to the company, the OSTA 2688 supplement is suitable for stacking. Many users can use it together with Brutal Force supplements.

3) OSTA 2866 Procurement Features

Buying from the official website gives you lots of financial benefits.

When you buy 2 bottles of the OSTA 2688 supplement, you can get another bottle for free.

Also, if you buy 3 bottles of the supplement, you can get another 2 bottles for free!

The company also offers free shipping and a 100% 60-day money-back guarantee.

The latter is very important when buying any supplements because in case the supplement did not work for you, you can get a full refund of your money.

For an additional discount, you can subscribe using your email and get a 20% off on your first OSTA 2688 purchase.

Take note a tub of OSTA 2688 can already last for a month. So, if you buy three bottles, it is like you are getting another two months’ supply for free!

One great thing about buying from the official website is that there is a 24/7 online chat support agent who can help you find the best deals.

You can ask the support agent about the possible side effects of the supplement as well.

Verdict

Indeed, taking Ostarine as your anabolic steroid can provide you with many health benefits.

Aside from enhancing your muscle health, it can also support your metabolism, prevent chronic illnesses such as AIDS and cancer, and can improve your insulin sensitivity.

Sometimes, Ostarine is also used to improve mental cognition and manage urinary incontinence.

However, not all users interested in this drug can use it as the Ostarine is contraindicated to postmenopausal women, pregnant and lactating women, and patients with liver injuries.

Additionally, there are some disadvantages to using this drug.

Some of these include the need for PCT and possible side effects such as acne breakout, hair growth problems, and gynecomastia.

Fortunately, those who want to experience these benefits without worrying about side effects may consider the legal alternative called OSTA-2866 by Crazy Bulk.

This is an all-natural supplement that is safe and clinically proven.

If you wish to buy the OSTA 2866, it is highly recommended to get it from Crazy Bulk’s official website so that you can also get crazy and amazing deals!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Ostarine lower testosterone levels?

There are some reports that this drug, at high doses, can negatively affect testosterone levels, and by this, it is safe to say that this drug cannot treat low sex drive or libido. Unlike other anabolic steroids, this drug may not help those with erectile dysfunction. Fortunately, there are other legal alternatives to Ostarine that can address this issue, and some of these include the OSTA 2688 by Crazy Bulk.

How is Ostarine administered?

Most anabolic steroids are administered orally or by injection. However, in terms of the Ostarine, this drug can only be taken orally. The common Ostarine dosage is 3 mg per day but this can change depending on the health condition of the user. Take note that there are no reports about the bioavailability of the drug. Thus, taking it orally does not ensure safety.

What Are the Side Effects of Using Ostarine?

The use of the Ostarine drug comes with many side effects and the most common one is liver toxicity, which is why patients with liver injuries should avoid this drug. Additionally, the common side effects include gynecomastia or breast growth in males, acne breakout, and hair growth disorders. Based on some reports, stomach pain, constipation, and nausea can also be experienced with the use of this drug.