AC-262,536
A profile on AC-262, a "mild" SARM gaining popularity for its favorable safety profile and lack of severe suppression compared to stronger compounds.
AC-262,536
AC-262,536 (often just AC-262) is a Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) developed by Acadia Pharmaceuticals.
In the landscape of SARMs where compounds like S-23 and RAD-140 are known for their harsh side effects, AC-262 stands out as a "gentle" alternative. It acts as a partial agonist, meaning it stimulates the androgen receptor enough to produce anabolic effects but does not fully activate it to the point of causing severe shutdown or androgenic side effects like prostate enlargement.
Quick Specs
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Active Compound | AC-262,536 |
| Half-Life | ~4-6 Hours |
| Detection Time | Unknown |
| Anabolic/Androgenic Ratio | 2.44 : 1 (Relative to Testosterone) |
| Chemical Family | SARM (Non-steroidal) |
| Administration | Oral (Capsule/Liquid) |
Mechanism of Action
AC-262 exerts its effects by binding selectively to androgen receptors in bone and muscle tissue. Unlike full agonists (like Testosterone or LGD-4033), AC-262 is a partial agonist.
This results in a significant separation between anabolic benefits (muscle growth) and androgenic liabilities (prostate growth, hair loss). Studies suggest it has about 66% of the anabolic potency of testosterone but only about 27% of its androgenic activity.
Pharmacokinetics & Dosing
Half-Life: ~4-6 Hours
Ideally, this compound requires frequent dosing to maintain peak blood levels.
- Frequency: 2-3 times daily.
- Dosage:
- Standard: 10mg to 30mg per day.
- Common Protocol: Many users dose 20mg once pre-workout, though splitting 10mg AM and 10mg PM is pharmacologically superior.
Primary Effects
1. "Keepable" Gains
AC-262 does not bloat the user with water or glycogen. The muscle gained is dry, lean tissue. While not as dramatic as LGD-4033, the gains are easier to maintain post-cycle.
2. Neuroprotective?
Early research indicated potential benefits for cognitive function, similar to RAD-140, though human data is sparse.
3. Lack of Side Effects
The primary "effect" users report is the absence of negative feelings. No aggression, no insomnia, and minimal lethargy.
Side Effects & Harm Reduction
Safety Profile:
The Beginner SARM: Because it is a partial agonist, AC-262 causes significantly less suppression of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) than other SARMs. Many users report normal bloodwork post-cycle without a heavy PCT, though bloodwork is still the only way to confirm this.
1. Mild Suppression
It is less suppressive, not non-suppressive. At doses of 20-30mg, natural testosterone production will dip. A mini-PCT is recommended.
2. Liver Enzymes
Like all oral research chemicals, it can elevate ALT/AST, though anecdotal reports suggest it is milder on the liver than Ostarine.
Tracking AC-262
Using the Anabolic Tracker app:
- Inventory: Add AC-262,536.
- Scheduling: Twice Daily.
- Metrics: Track Mood and Libido. Unlike stronger SARMs that might crash libido, AC-262 often leaves it unaffected.
Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational purposes only. AC-262,536 is a research chemical not approved for human consumption.