SARMs vs. Steroids in Canada: Which is Right for You?

In the Canadian fitness community, the debate between Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) and Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS) is often framed as a choice between “modern science” and “traditional power.” While both interact with androgen receptors to promote muscle growth, their legal status and safety profiles in Canada differ significantly.

Which is better: SARMs or Steroids?

Anabolic steroids are more effective for total muscle mass but carry a higher risk of systemic side effects and are strictly regulated as Schedule IV substances in Canada. SARMs are often marketed as “side-effect free” alternatives; however, Health Canada classifies them as unauthorized drugs that have not been vetted for safety. Clinical data suggests that many SARMs sold in Canada are either under-dosed or adulterated with oral steroids, making “safety” a significant concern for both categories.

Mechanism of Action: How They Work

Understanding the biological “mind map” of these substances helps explain their different impacts on the body.

Anabolic Steroids (AAS)

[Steroids] are synthetic derivatives of testosterone. They bind to androgen receptors throughout the entire body including the heart, prostate, and scalp, which leads to both muscle growth and widespread side effects.

SARMs

SARMs are designed to be tissue-selective. In theory, they target androgen receptors specifically in muscle and bone tissue while avoiding the prostate and sebaceous glands. However, most modern SARMs (like LGD-4033 or RAD-140) still exhibit some level of systemic suppression.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Steroids vs. SARMs

The Health Canada Regulatory Stance

It is a common misconception that SARMs are “legal” in Canada because they are often sold as “research chemicals.”

The “Research Chemical” Loophole

[Health Canada] does [not authorize] the [sale of SARMs] for human consumption. While some companies sell them under the guise of “not for human use,” the Food and Drugs Act allows regulators to seize these products if they are being marketed or used as health products.

• Steroids: Regulated under the CDSA; possession is generally not prosecuted, but trafficking is a crime.
• SARMs: Not listed on the CDSA, but illegal to sell as a health product.

Safety Concerns: The “UGL” Factor

As discussed in our Canada Steroids guide, the primary risk for Canadians is the source of the substance.

• Steroid Risks: Mostly related to hormonal imbalances, cardiovascular strain, and injection site infections.
• SARMs Risks: Recent studies show that up to 50% of SARMs sold online contain different substances than what is on the label, including prohibited steroids like Dianabol or even completely inert fillers.

Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) Requirements

A major myth in the SARM community is that “you don’t need a PCT.”

• AAS: Mandatory PCT to restart the HPTA.
• SARMs: While less suppressive than a high-dose steroid cycle, “strong” SARMs like RAD-140 still require a mild PCT and follow-up blood work to ensure testosterone levels recover.

References

1. Health Canada: Advisory – SARMs may pose serious health risks. [Source: Government of Canada Recalls]
2. Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA): Chemical Composition and Labeling of Substances Sold as SARMs.
3. Justice Laws Website: Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (S.C. 1996, c. 19).