Cardarine (GW-501516)

Cardarine (GW-501516) is frequently grouped with SARMs, but it is not a SARM. It is a Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor delta (PPARδ) agonist.

It was originally developed in the 1990s to treat metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. It essentially mimics the effects of exercise on the body, forcing skeletal muscle to use fatty acids for energy instead of carbohydrates.

Quick Specs

Mechanism of Action

Cardarine activates the PPAR-delta pathway. This gene expression switch turns on the machinery for fatty acid oxidation (burning fat) and increases oxidative capacity in muscle fibers (endurance).

Because it is non-hormonal, it does not suppress testosterone and does not require a PCT.

Pharmacokinetics & Dosing

Half-Life: ~16-24 Hours

• Frequency: Once daily dosing is sufficient. Most users take it 1-2 hours pre-workout.
• Dosage: 10mg to 20mg per day.
• Duration: Typically run for 8-12 weeks.

Primary Effects

1. Extreme Endurance

The endurance boost is often described as "having a third lung." Cardio becomes significantly easier, and rest times between lifting sets are reduced.

2. Fat Loss

By shifting the body's energy preference to lipids (fats), it accelerates fat loss even without a severe caloric deficit.

3. Lipid Profile Improvement

In clinical studies, Cardarine drastically raised HDL (good cholesterol) and lowered LDL (bad cholesterol). Many bodybuilders use it on-cycle specifically to protect their lipids against harsh steroids like Trenbolone.

Side Effects & Harm Reduction

1. No Hormonal Suppression

It does not affect the HPTA axis. No PCT is needed.

2. Liver Toxicity

Generally considered non-toxic to the liver, though anecdotal reports vary.

Tracking Cardarine

Using the Anabolic Tracker app:

1. Inventory: Add Cardarine (GW-501516).
2. Scheduling: Daily.
3. Metrics: Track Resting Heart Rate and Cardio Duration/Output. You should see measurable improvements in run times or output.
4. Bloodwork: Monitor Lipids. You may see an improvement in HDL.