Confused about the legal status of SARMs in the UK? You’re not alone. The landscape surrounding Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) is murky – and constantly evolving. Let’s break it down clearly, using current legislation and official sources.
Key Takeaways
SARMs are not controlled substances in the UK (yet).
Selling or marketing them for human use is illegal without MHRA authorisation.
Personal possession is legal, but use in sport is banned.
UK authorities are monitoring SARMs closely, and legislation could tighten in future.
The Quick Answer
SARMs are not currently classified as controlled substances under the UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. However, their sale for human consumption is illegal under The Human Medicines Regulations 2012unless authorised by the MHRA.
What Does “Controlled Substance” Actually Mean?
A controlled substance is a drug listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, making it illegal to possess, supply, or produce without proper licensing. These include:
Class A: Heroin, cocaine, LSD
Class B: Cannabis, codeine
Class C: Diazepam, anabolic steroids
SARMs are not listed in any of these classes (as of 2025). They are not scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, either.
✅ That means: Possession of SARMs is not a criminal offence in the UK.
So Why Are SARMs Banned for Human Use?
Here’s where it gets more technical.
SARMs fall under the definition of a medicinal product due to their pharmacological effects. Under Regulation 3 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, it is illegal to:
“Sell, supply, advertise, or market SARMs for human consumption without proper authorisation“
That’s why reputable vendors label SARMs as:
⚠️ “For Research Use Only” ❌ “Not for human consumption”
Even though they’re not controlled substances, selling SARMs as supplements or for bodybuilding use is illegal.
Are There Any SARMs That Are Controlled?
No SARMs are currently controlled under UK drug laws. But that could change.
In 2020, the UK Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) reviewed SARMs and recommended monitoring their growing use. The Home Office has not yet moved to schedule SARMs under the Misuse of Drugs Act – but they are under scrutiny.
“SARMs present a risk of misuse and health harms similar to anabolic steroids.” – ACMD Report, 2020
SARMs like Ostarine (MK-2866), Ligandrol (LGD-4033), and Testolone (RAD-140) are on the WADA Prohibited List. This means athletes caught with SARMs in their system face bans – even if they obtained them legally.
They are classified as S1: Anabolic Agents – the same category as steroids.
Thinking of importing, supplying, or storing SARMs in the EU or UK? Then you need to understand REACH – because it’s not just for big chemical companies. It applies to you, even if you’re selling “for research only.” Let’s break it down. What is REACH? REACH stands for: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals …
What You Need to Know Before You Order Short Answer: Yes, SARMs coming into the UK can be seized by UK Customs – here’s why Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) exist in a legal grey area in the UK. While they’re not classified as controlled substances, they are not authorised for human consumption and are …
Are SARMs legal in 2025? The short answer: not really. In the U.S., the FDA calls them ‘unapproved drugs’ and is prosecuting companies that sell them as supplements. In the UK, regulators classify them as ‘novel foods,’ which means they can’t be sold for human consumption either. You might still see them marketed online, often …
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs UK) have become a major focus for legal and regulatory discussions, especially concerning their use in bodybuilding, performance enhancement, and experimental medical treatments. Promoted for their ability to boost muscle growth with fewer side effects than anabolic steroids, SARMs occupy a legal gray area, with their status varying widely across …
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Are SARMs Classed as Controlled Substances in the UK?
Confused about the legal status of SARMs in the UK? You’re not alone. The landscape surrounding Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) is murky – and constantly evolving. Let’s break it down clearly, using current legislation and official sources.
Key Takeaways
The Quick Answer
SARMs are not currently classified as controlled substances under the UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
However, their sale for human consumption is illegal under The Human Medicines Regulations 2012unless authorised by the MHRA.
What Does “Controlled Substance” Actually Mean?
A controlled substance is a drug listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, making it illegal to possess, supply, or produce without proper licensing.
These include:
SARMs are not listed in any of these classes (as of 2025).
They are not scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, either.
✅ That means: Possession of SARMs is not a criminal offence in the UK.
So Why Are SARMs Banned for Human Use?
Here’s where it gets more technical.
SARMs fall under the definition of a medicinal product due to their pharmacological effects.
Under Regulation 3 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, it is illegal to:
That’s why reputable vendors label SARMs as:
Even though they’re not controlled substances, selling SARMs as supplements or for bodybuilding use is illegal.
Are There Any SARMs That Are Controlled?
No SARMs are currently controlled under UK drug laws. But that could change.
In 2020, the UK Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) reviewed SARMs and recommended monitoring their growing use.
The Home Office has not yet moved to schedule SARMs under the Misuse of Drugs Act – but they are under scrutiny.
This means regulation could tighten.
Further information: Checking if SARMs are legal in the UK
Can SARMs Be Seized by UK Customs?
Yes – if they appear to be imported for personal use or human consumption.
UK Border Force may:
Vendors often include compliance disclaimers and avoid making medical or performance claims.
Further information: Importing SARMs in the UK
What About WADA and Sports Bans?
SARMs like Ostarine (MK-2866), Ligandrol (LGD-4033), and Testolone (RAD-140) are on the WADA Prohibited List.
This means athletes caught with SARMs in their system face bans – even if they obtained them legally.
They are classified as S1: Anabolic Agents – the same category as steroids.
Legal to Sell? Legal to Buy? Here’s the Matrix:
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