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Ligandrol (LGD-4033)

Aliases: VK5211 · Ligandrol

Last verified: 2026-09-23

Clinical trialsModerate evidenceSARMsLow interest

The short version

A potent SARM — Phase I/II show dose-dependent lean-mass gains; known for pronounced size. In development for hip fracture (VK5211). Status: in clinical trials. Not approved; WADA-banned (S1).

Identity & type

Molecular type
SARM
Origin
A potent SARM — Phase I/II show dose-dependent lean-mass gains; known for pronounced size.

Mechanism of action

High-affinity AR agonist selective for muscle/bone.

Dosing & routes

Official / clinical context

No approved official document exists for Ligandrol (LGD-4033). Any protocols mentioned are to be read as information, not as a recommendation.

Regulator-approved labeling and published study designs — never a recommendation.

Community-reported practice

Trials: 0.1–1 mg/day; community: 5–10 mg/day for 8 weeks. The community reports more pronounced fullness and mass than ostarine (visible within 3–4 weeks), with stronger suppression and occasional lethargy. A common "mini-bulk" choice.

Unverified self-reports. Not medical advice. Not endorsement.

Expected effects (community)

The community reports more pronounced fullness and mass than ostarine (visible within 3–4 weeks), with stronger suppression and occasional lethargy. A common "mini-bulk" choice.

Protocol — official vs community

Official / label

No approved product. Phase 1/2 studied 0.1–1 mg daily; Phase 2 in healthy elderly at 1 mg showed dose-dependent effects and clinical-arrest signals in other programs.

  1. 01Study doses: 0.1–1 mg daily

Duration: Study-defined.

Stronger per-milligram than ostarine; the higher the dose, the harsher the suppression.

Community (anecdotal)

5–10 mg oral daily.

Cycle:
8 weeks.
Break:
8+ weeks with PCT.

The 5–10 mg community range is 5–10× study dosing; LGD-4033 is the SARM most associated with meaningful HPTA suppression.

Human evidence

Phase I/II (Viking): +1.2 kg lean mass at 1 mg/3 wks; Phase IIb for hip fracture.

Preclinical evidence

Preclinical literature preceded the clinical trials; details vary by compound.

Known risks

  • Dose-dependent suppression, headache, lipid changes; rarely notable transaminase elevation.characterized
  • WADA prohibition (S1 anabolic agents)characterized

Teal: characterized in clinical/labeling contexts. Amber: theoretical or reported outside controlled settings.

Unknowns & evidence gaps

  • Long-term safety in off-label use

Frequently asked questions

References

Systematic references are being expanded; verify sources directly before any decision.