Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

GW501516, also known as Cardarine, is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARδ) agonist. It has been extensively studied in animal models and limited human trials for its effects on metabolism and exercise performance. Scientific evidence shows that GW501516 enhances endurance and stimulates the burning of fatty acids for energy, which theoretically could support athletic performance and exercise capacity. In studies with mice, administration of GW501516 increased running time and distance, improved lipid profiles, and promoted a shift in muscle fiber type toward more oxidative fibers, which are beneficial for endurance. Some very small and early-phase human studies suggest similar metabolic effects, such as increased fatty acid oxidation and improved lipid profiles, but robust clinical data in athletes or healthy humans is lacking.

However, GW501516 has serious safety concerns, including evidence from animal studies that it may increase the risk of cancer with long-term use. Because of these risks, it is not approved for human use by regulatory agencies, and its use is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in competitive sports. The supporting evidence for its performance-enhancing effects in humans is limited, but the biological rationale and animal data are strong enough to rate the evidence a 3. Nevertheless, due to the severe risks, it is not recommended for use as an athletic or exercise aid.

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