Cardarine (GW-501516): The Ultimate Endurance & Fat Oxidation Compound
DISCLAIMER: For research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.
Cardarine (GW-501516) is a potent metabolic research compound often categorized alongside SARMs, though it technically belongs to the class of PPARδ (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor delta) agonists. Developed in the 1990s by GlaxoSmithKline and Ligand Pharmaceuticals, it was initially researched for its potential to treat cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes due to its profound impact on energy metabolism.
Chemical & Biological Properties
- IUPAC Name: 2-(4-((2-(4-(Trifluoromethyl)phenyl)thiazol-4-yl)methylthio)-2-methylphenoxy)acetic acid
- CAS Number: 317318-70-0
- Molecular Formula: C₂₁H₁₈F₃NO₃S₂
- Molar Mass: 453.5 g/mol
- Elimination Half-Life: Approximately 16–24 hours, supporting a once-daily dosing protocol.
- Mechanism of Action: Activates the PPARδ pathway, significantly enhancing fatty acid oxidation and improving glucose uptake in skeletal muscle.
Potential Research Benefits
- Rapid Fat Loss: Shifts the body’s primary energy source from glucose to stored fat, promoting efficient lipolysis.
- Extreme Endurance: Increases aerobic capacity and stamina, allowing for longer and more intense training sessions.
- Vascularity & Muscle Fullness: Helps achieve a "dry" look with minimal water retention, ideal for cutting phases.
- Lipid Profile Improvement: Research indicates potential in raising HDL (good cholesterol) and lowering LDL (bad cholesterol).
- Insulin Sensitivity: May assist in regulating blood sugar levels and improving metabolic efficiency.
Recommended Cycling Protocols
To maximize research efficacy while monitoring physiological impact, the following protocols are commonly utilized:
1. Standard Cycle Lengths
- Beginner: 6–8 weeks at 10 mg/day.
- Intermediate: 8–10 weeks at 15 mg/day.
- Advanced: 10–12 weeks at 20 mg/day.
2. Goal-Specific Research Stacks
- Cutting: 10–20 mg/day for 8 weeks. Often paired with Ostarine (MK-2866) to preserve lean muscle during calorie deficits.
- Endurance & Stamina: 10–15 mg/day for 6–8 weeks. Preferred by endurance athletes for cardiovascular performance.
- Recomposition: 15–20 mg/day for 8–10 weeks. Frequently stacked with RAD-140 or LGD-4033 to lose fat and gain muscle simultaneously.
Side Effects & Safety Considerations
As with all metabolic modulators, Cardarine carries potential risks that must be monitored:
- Carcinogenic Concerns: High-dose animal studies previously showed tumor development, which led to the cessation of clinical trials.
- Liver Stress: Potential for elevated liver enzymes in some subjects.
- Anecdotal Reports: Some users report mild headaches, joint pain, or digestive discomfort.
- Long-Term Safety: Due to a lack of human clinical trials, long-term safety profiles remain incomplete.
Detection Time
- Urine Detection: Traceable for up to 40 days post-cycle. Some metabolites may persist longer depending on individual metabolic rates.
- Blood Detection: Traceable for several weeks after the final administration.
Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT)
Is PCT required? No. Cardarine is non-hormonal and does not suppress natural testosterone production. However, a 4–6 week break between cycles is highly recommended to maintain health and receptor sensitivity.
Product Specification: “CARDARINE”
Serving Size: 1 Capsule
Servings Per Container: 90
| Ingredient |
Amount per Capsule |
DV% |
| Cardarine (GW-501516) |
10 mg |
* |
* Daily Value (DV) not established.