I've seen a lot of debate about SARMs, specifically Ostarine (MK-2866). Many people run it as an "only" cycle, claiming it's non-suppressive. But I've also seen advice to run it with a testosterone base. What are your thoughts on this? Is it truly non-suppressive, and is a test base overkill or a necessary precaution?
Ostarine is one of the milder SARMs, but it is not non-suppressive. The degree of suppression varies from person to person, but it will affect your HPTA axis. Running it "only" is a bad idea because your natural testosterone will drop, leading to a host of negative side effects.
A low dose of a testosterone ester like Test E at 200-250mg/week is an excellent base for a SARM like Ostarine. It keeps your testosterone levels in a healthy range, preventing the lethargy and loss of libido that can come with suppression. A typical Ostarine dose is 15-25mg/day for 8-12 weeks.
The main issue is that many SARM users are beginners who are afraid of needles and a "real" steroid cycle. They often believe the marketing that says SARMs are side-effect-free. This is dangerous. Blood work is the only way to know your level of suppression and whether a test base is truly needed.
From a health standpoint, a test base is always a good idea when dealing with compounds that suppress natural production. It maintains a healthy hormonal environment. The "controversy" is largely based on misinformation and a desire to avoid injections, which is a poor trade-off for hormonal health.
Another point: the quality control of SARMs is often questionable. A lot of products sold as SARMs are actually pro-hormones or other steroids. A test base helps to counteract the unknown variables you might be taking.
So the consensus is that a test base is a smart move. That makes sense, especially given the "research chemical" status of these compounds. What about PCT after a cycle with Ostarine and a test base? Is a full PCT still needed?
Yes, absolutely. A full PCT is needed. The Test base itself will suppress your natural production. You'd follow the same protocol as a normal Test E cycle: wait 2-3 weeks after the last injection and then start your SERM. Do not skip PCT.
And even for the "mild" suppression of an Ostarine-only cycle, a PCT is still recommended. A SERM can help kick-start your natural production and prevent a significant crash. The risk of not doing a PCT is just not worth it.
For a beginner, the test base makes the cycle much more predictable and safer. You're dealing with known variables (Test) instead of an unregulated research chemical on its own.