What is LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)?
LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules contain a synthetic nonsteroidal small molecule. It is classified as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It was originally developed by Ligand Pharmaceuticals and later advanced by Viking Therapeutics. Researchers also refer to it as Ligandrol and LGD-4033.
LGD-4033 is a full agonist at the androgen receptor (AR) in skeletal muscle and bone tissue in preclinical models. It binds the AR ligand-binding domain with high affinity. This initiates nuclear translocation of the ligand-receptor complex. Resultantly, androgen response elements (AREs) and downstream gene transcription pathways are activated.
ATTENTION: This product is strictly for LABORATORY AND RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY. Not for human or veterinary use.
Mechanism of Action of LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules
How Does LGD-4033 Interact with the Androgen Receptor?
LGD-4033 binds the AR’s ligand-binding domain, inducing a conformational change that facilitates nuclear translocation of the ligand-receptor complex. Once translocated, the complex binds androgen response elements on target gene promoters and starts downstream transcriptional activation.
LGD-4033 has been studied in controlled research settings, demonstrating high binding affinity, selectivity, and dose-proportional accumulation.
Key mechanistic observations from laboratory studies:
- AR full agonism in muscle and bone: LGD-4033 acts as a full agonist at the androgen receptor in skeletal muscle and bone tissue in preclinical models. It shows reduced or absent agonistic activity at AR in the prostate and seminal vesicles.
- Nuclear translocation and ARE binding: Upon AR binding, LGD-4033 initiates nuclear translocation of the ligand-receptor complex. The complex binds androgen response elements on target gene promoters, activating transcription of genes involved in muscle protein synthesis and bone metabolism in experimental models.
- Dose-proportional pharmacokinetics: Controlled pharmacokinetic studies have characterized LGD-4033’s elimination half-life, dose-proportional accumulation profile, and downstream effects on lean mass and hormonal markers in preclinical research models.
- HPG axis suppression: LGD-4033 has been associated with dose-dependent suppression of total testosterone and HPG axis markers in controlled experimental settings. Note: HPG axis findings derive from early- phase investigational data and are cited for mechanistic context only.
- Tissue selectivity ratio: Preclinical data from animal models demonstrate a tissue selectivity profile consistent with SARM class compounds. This ratio makes LGD-4033 a reference compound in comparative SARM receptor selectivity studies
Properties of LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules
| Property | Detail |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₁₂F₆N₂O |
| IUPAC Name | 4-[(2R)-2-[(1R)-2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxyethyl]pyrrolidin-1-yl]-2-(trifluoromethyl)benzonitrile |
| Synonyms | Ligandrol; VK5211; LGD4033; CHEMBL2180736 |
| Molecular Weight | 338.25 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 1165910-22-4 |
| PubChem CID | 44137686 |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified, per batch COA) |
| Physical Form | White lyophilized powder |
| Storage | −20°C, protected from light and moisture |
| Form | Free base |
| Classification | Research Use Only (RUO) |
Research Applications of LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules
LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules are studied across several experimental research domains. Below are the primary laboratory applications researchers have investigated.
- Androgen Receptor Binding and Selectivity Studies
LGD-4033’s high binding affinity (Ki ~1 nM) [3] and documented tissue selectivity profile make it a standard reference compound in AR binding assays. Researchers use it to investigate:
- Ligand-binding domain interactions
- Conformational change dynamics upon agonist binding, and
- ARE-mediated transcriptional activation in muscle and bone cell culture models
- Muscle Protein Synthesis Pathway Research
In preclinical models, AR activation by LGD-4033 has been studied in relation to gene transcription pathways involved in muscle protein synthesis. This makes it a relevant tool for checking androgen receptor engagement in skeletal muscle tissue models.
- Bone Metabolism and Osteoblast Signaling Research
LGD-4033 has been studied in preclinical bone models for its AR-mediated effects on osteoblast activity and bone resorption pathways. Its selective activity in bone tissue makes it a useful probe for examining androgen-dependent bone metabolism signaling (in experimental systems).
- HPG Axis Modulation Studies
In controlled experimental settings, LGD-4033 has been associated with dose-dependent modulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis markers. This includes testosterone, SHBG, and gonadotropins.
Risk and Handling Precautions
Risk Tier: MODERATE–HIGH
This rating reflects LGD-4033’s classification as a prohibited substance under the WADA Prohibited List (S1: Anabolic Agents), and the absence of comprehensive long-term safety data for this research-grade preparation.
Handling Precautions: LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules should be handled by trained laboratory personnel only, in a controlled research environment. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, including gloves and eye protection. Avoid direct skin contact and inhalation during laboratory handling.
Exposure Risks: LGD-4033 is a full AR agonist research compound with no approved safety profile for human exposure. No comprehensive human toxicity data exists for this research-grade preparation. LGD-4033 is classified as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA, S1: Anabolic Agents) and must not be used in any context involving human subjects.
Note on Dosage Format: LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules are supplied exclusively for preclinical oral administration research protocols. This format must not be used for human consumption under any circumstances.
Storage: Store at −20°C in a dry, dark environment protected from light, heat, and moisture. Check the batch Certificate of Analysis for lot-specific guidance. Do not use if the seal has been compromised.
Why Choose BehemothLabz to Buy LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules?
BehemothLabz offers LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules for laboratory research purposes. Every batch goes through independent third-party testing for purity, identity, and contaminant screening. Testing is conducted using HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) and FTIR spectroscopy.
The compound is USA-made and held to research-grade standards. It is available strictly to qualified researchers for use in controlled laboratory environments. BehemothLabz does not self-certify. External labs verify every lot. This confirms purity at ≥99% and supports consistent research-grade standards per batch.
BehemothLabz Disclaimer
ATTENTION: All BehemothLabz products are strictly for LABORATORY AND RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY. They are not to be used for any human or veterinary purposes.
Please make sure you go through the Terms and Conditions and familiarize yourself with them, as it is important. Kindly research the scientific uses of this product before making any purchases. Make note that the packaging and labels of the product may differ from those shown on the website.
By purchasing the product, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. You can contact our customer service team at support@behemothlabz.com if you are not fully satisfied with the product.
LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules Research FAQs
What purity standard does BehemothLabz provide for this product?
Every batch is independently tested by third-party laboratories. LGD-4033 Ligandrol Capsules are verified at ≥99% purity by HPLC analysis. A Certificate of Analysis confirming purity and molecular identity is available per lot.
How does LGD-4033 differ from anabolic steroids in research models?
LGD-4033 is a nonsteroidal compound that binds the androgen receptor selectively. In preclinical models, it demonstrates full AR agonism in muscle and bone tissue with a tissue selectivity ratio of greater than 500:1 (muscle versus prostate) [3]. Anabolic steroids are steroidal compounds that activate AR non-selectively across tissues, producing androgenic activity in reproductive tissue alongside anabolic effects. This selectivity difference is the primary mechanistic distinction in experimental research models.
Is LGD-4033 a prohibited substance?
Yes. LGD-4033 is classified as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) under the S1: Anabolic Agents category. This product is supplied strictly for controlled laboratory research and must not be used in any context involving athletic competition, human subjects, or any purpose outside approved research settings.
Is LGD-4033 approved for human use?
No. LGD-4033 is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human or veterinary use. It remains an investigational compound. No regulatory body has cleared it for any health application. BehemothLabz sells it for laboratory research purposes only. Please review the Terms and Conditions before ordering.
How does LGD-4033 differ from Ostarine (MK-2866) in research models?
LGD-4033 and Ostarine are both nonsteroidal SARMs studied for AR selectivity. LGD-4033 is a full AR agonist with reported binding affinity of Ki ~1 nM and higher anabolic potency in preclinical muscle models. Ostarine (MK-2866) is a partial agonist with lower binding affinity. Selection between Ostarine and the other compound depends on the desired AR agonism profile. Both are WADA-prohibited substances, supplied strictly for lab research.
References
- Roch PJ, Henkies D, Carstens JC, Krischek C, Lehmann W, Komrakova M, Sehmisch S. Ostarine and ligandrol improve muscle tissue in an ovariectomized rat model. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2020;11:556581. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2020.556581
- Komrakova M, Hoffmann DB, Saul D, Wicke M, Lehmann W, Sehmisch S. Effects of ligandrol as a selective androgen receptor modulator in a rat model for osteoporosis. Journal of Bone and Mineral Metabolism. 2023;41(4):400–411. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00774-023-01453-8
- Narayanan R, Mohler ML, Bohl CE, Miller DD, Dalton JT. Selective androgen receptor modulators in preclinical and clinical development. Nuclear Receptor Signaling. 2008;6:e010. https://doi.org/10.1621/nrs.06010
- Basaria S, Collins L, Dillon EL, et al. The safety, pharmacokinetics, and effects of LGD-4033, a novel nonsteroidal oral, selective androgen receptor modulator, in healthy young men. Journals of Gerontology Series A. 2013;68(1):87-95. PMID 22459616. https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/gls078
[Cited for pharmacokinetic and HPG axis mechanistic context only. This reference documents human clinical investigation and does not apply to the research-grade formulation supplied here.]




