Known. Named.Never used.

What it is

A synthetic analogue of growth-hormone-releasing hormone carrying a ‘drug affinity complex’ that binds it to albumin, so one injection raises growth hormone and IGF-1 for days rather than minutes.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing factors — named as a GHRH analogue. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Flushing, injection-site reactions, headache and water retention in the trials; the long-term effects of a sustained rise in IGF-1 (insulin resistance, tissue growth, a possible cancer signal) are unstudied; grey-market vials are of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the axis and reads IGF-1 in the panel; sleep, energy availability and heavy training are the levers. Clinical questions go to an endocrinologist; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A 29-amino-acid analogue of growth-hormone-releasing hormone with four substitutions that slow its breakdown: the peptide inside CJC-1295 without the albumin-binding complex, so it acts for minutes, not days.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing factors: GHRH ‘and its analogues’ are covered, with or without the DAC. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Flushing, headache and injection-site reactions in the related trials; unknown long-term effects of repeated IGF-1 elevation; unregulated vials of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a chemistry footnote to CJC-1295, not as an option. The practice reads IGF-1 and programmes sleep and training; tested athletes are told the subject is closed and clinical questions go to an endocrinologist.

What it is

The first 29 amino acids of human growth-hormone-releasing hormone, the part that carries its activity; it prompts the pituitary to release a pulse of growth hormone.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing factors — named as a GHRH analogue. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Injection-site reactions, flushing, headache and dizziness were the labelled effects in children; long-term adult use has never been studied; compounded products vary in potency and sterility.

What the practice does instead

Explained honestly: a discontinued paediatric medicine repackaged as an adult wellness product. The practice measures sleep, IGF-1 and DXA composition; clinical questions go to an endocrinologist and tested athletes are told the subject is closed.

What it is

A synthetic five-amino-acid growth-hormone secretagogue that acts on the ghrelin receptor to trigger a pulse of growth hormone, with less effect on cortisol and prolactin than the earlier GHRPs.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone secretagogues — named. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Headache, flushing, water retention and increased appetite are reported; immunogenicity and impurities are the FDA’s stated concerns; grey-market vials are untested.

What the practice does instead

Explained, never discussed as an option. The practice reads IGF-1 and sleep, and programmes the sleep window, energy availability and heavy training that move the axis legally. Clinical questions go to an endocrinologist; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A synthetic six-amino-acid growth-hormone secretagogue acting on the ghrelin receptor; one of the earliest and most potent GHRPs.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing peptides — named as GHRP-2 (pralmorelin). Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Marked hunger, water retention, raised cortisol and prolactin, flushing and tingling; the effects of repeated use are unstudied; grey-market product is of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Explained as what it is: a diagnostic tool, not a therapy. The practice reads IGF-1 and cortisol as trends, refers anything abnormal to an endocrinologist, and never discusses GHRPs as an option with any client.

Family name

GHRP means growth-hormone-releasing peptide, a family rather than one molecule. This record covers GHRP-2; the separate GHRP-6 record covers that member.

What it is

The prototype synthetic hexapeptide secretagogue: it releases growth hormone through the ghrelin receptor and, like ghrelin itself, sharply increases hunger.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing peptides — named. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Marked hunger, water retention, raised cortisol and prolactin, flushing and tingling; unstudied long term; unregulated vials of unverified content and sterility.

What the practice does instead

Explained, never recommended. Appetite and recovery are coached with food, sleep and load management, and measured. Clinical questions are referred to an endocrinologist; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A synthetic hexapeptide secretagogue related to GHRP-6, the most potent growth-hormone releaser of the family, with actions on the heart that were studied in the 1990s.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing peptides — named as examorelin (hexarelin). Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Raised cortisol and prolactin, water retention, flushing; desensitisation of the axis with continued use; unregulated product of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Explained with the 1998 study in hand, because it answers the marketing directly. The practice measures body composition by DXA and reads IGF-1; sleep and training are the levers. Tested athletes are told the subject is closed; clinical questions go to an endocrinologist.

What it is

An orally active, non-peptide ghrelin-receptor agonist that raises growth hormone and IGF-1 around the clock: a small-molecule drug candidate that never reached the market, sold beside peptides.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone secretagogues — named as ibutamoren (MK-677). Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Raised fasting glucose and reduced insulin sensitivity, fluid retention, appetite, joint and muscle pain, lethargy; a heart-failure signal in the FDA’s reasoning; unknown effects of years of elevated IGF-1.

What the practice does instead

Explained with the 2008 trial, which is more honest than any advertisement. The practice reads fasting insulin, HbA1c and IGF-1 as trends and measures lean mass by DXA; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A stabilised synthetic analogue of growth-hormone-releasing hormone that raises growth hormone and IGF-1 in a physiological pattern; the one GHRH analogue that is a current, approved medicine.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing factors — named as a GHRH analogue. Prohibited at all times; a TUE would require the approved indication.

What it does to a body

Joint pain, injection-site reactions, oedema and muscle pain are common; contraindicated with active cancer, pregnancy and pituitary disruption; IGF-1 and glucose need monitoring.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a real medicine with a narrow indication, not a fat-loss shortcut. Visceral fat is measured by DXA and moved with training, diet and sleep; where a physician prescribes it, the practice coaches around it and never adjusts or sources it.

What it is

Recombinant human growth hormone, identical to the pituitary hormone: an established medicine for defined deficiency states and a long-standing doping agent.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.3, growth hormone, its analogues and fragments. Prohibited at all times; detected directly and through biomarkers.

What it does to a body

Fluid retention, joint and muscle pain, paraesthesia, carpal tunnel syndrome, raised glucose and diabetes, gynaecomastia; contraindicated with active tumours; a possible cancer signal with long supraphysiological exposure.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the axis and reads IGF-1 as part of the panel, never as a target to raise. Suspected deficiency is referred to an endocrinologist; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A laboratory-modified insulin-like growth factor 1 with an extra 13 amino acids and one substitution so it escapes the binding proteins that normally restrain IGF-1; it was designed as a cell-culture reagent, not a medicine.

Why it is prohibited

S2.3, growth factors and growth factor modulators: IGF-1 (mecasermin) ‘and its analogues’. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Hypoglycaemia, jaw and soft-tissue growth, joint pain, tonsillar hypertrophy and raised intracranial pressure are recognised with IGF-1 itself; a compound engineered to evade binding proteins amplifies the growth signal that is the basis of the cancer concern. Grey-market vials are unverified.

What the practice does instead

Explained plainly as a reagent sold as a drug. The practice reads IGF-1 as a trend and refers anything outside range to an endocrinologist. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A 16-amino-acid fragment of the C-terminal of human growth hormone with an added tyrosine, developed in Australia in the late 1990s as an obesity drug on the theory that the fragment carries the fat-mobilising effect without the growth effect.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.3, growth hormone fragments — named as AOD-9604. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Immunogenicity risk with injectable use, equivocal genotoxicity and liver findings in animals, no long-term human safety data; online products are of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Explained with the trial that answered the question. Fat loss is programmed with an energy deficit, protein, training and sleep, and measured by DXA every twelve weeks. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Name check

“Tyr - hGH Fragment” is not an exact molecular identifier. FDA describes AOD-9604 as a tyrosine-modified hGH fragment; the abbreviated label alone cannot prove that two preparations are the same.

Sources: FDA identity review

What it is

A growth-hormone-releasing-hormone (GHRH) analogue, named by WADA next to CJC-1295. No approval as a medicine was verified; it is cited here only in anti-doping lists and a doping-analysis review.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4 — CJC-1293 is named on the 2026 List with CJC-1295, sermorelin and tesamorelin, as a GHRH analogue. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human trial of CJC-1293 is cited here, and no safety data are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Annual Banned-Substance Review 17th Edition - Analytical Approaches in Human Sports Drug Testing 2023/2024 (PMC12319490)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Anamorelin is an oral ghrelin-like drug approved in Japan for cancer cachexia. Macimorelin is an oral growth-hormone secretagogue used as a diagnostic test for adult growth-hormone deficiency.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4 — anamorelin and macimorelin are named individually on the 2026 List as growth-hormone secretagogues. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Anamorelin has ghrelin-like effects: appetite stimulation, increased food intake and weight, and stimulated growth-hormone secretion. A review reports limited effect on lean body mass and none on grip strength or quality of life. No safety data are cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads IGF-1 in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Anamorelin in the Management of Cancer Cachexia: Clinical Efficacy, Challenges, and Future Directions (Anticancer Research 45(3)) · MACRILEN (macimorelin) prescribing information, FDA

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Growth-hormone-releasing peptides and ghrelin mimetics (growth-hormone secretagogues), named individually by WADA. Capromorelin is a small-molecule ghrelin-receptor agonist used in veterinary medicine. No human approval was verified for any of them.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4 — each is named individually on the 2026 List among growth-hormone secretagogues and releasing peptides. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data are cited for these peptides. Human studies of capromorelin had been discontinued by 2017, and no human trial of the others is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Capromorelin (Wikipedia, secondary source)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone. The List names it beside AOD-9604, which a 2026 review describes as the hGH(177–191) fragment. No approval as a medicine was verified for this use.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.3 — hGH 176-191 is named on the 2026 List together with AOD-9604. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data specific to hGH 176–191 are cited here. A 2026 review reports limited short-term human trials of the related fragment AOD9604, which failed its primary weight-loss endpoint, and no separate trials of hGH 176-191.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · The emerging landscape of performance-enhancing peptides modulating GH-IGF1 axis (Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Long-acting growth-hormone analogues. Lonapegsomatropin and somatrogon are authorised for children with growth-hormone deficiency; somapacitan is replacement therapy in adults who do not produce enough growth hormone.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.3 — lonapegsomatropin, somapacitan and somatrogon are named on the 2026 List as growth-hormone analogues. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data are cited for use in people without growth-hormone deficiency, and no evidence for that use is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Skytrofa EPAR summary, EMA · Sogroya EPAR summary, EMA

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A recombinant copy of insulin-like growth factor 1, authorised in the EU for long-term treatment of children aged two to 18 who are short for their age due to severe primary IGF-1 deficiency.

Why it is prohibited

S2.3 — IGF-1 (mecasermin) is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect information is cited here. The EU authorisation is for severe primary IGF-1 deficiency in short children; no trials for performance or anti-ageing use are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads IGF-1 in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: Increlex EPAR summary, EMA · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Mechano growth factor (MGF) is an IGF-1 splice variant, and PEG-MGF is sold as a PEGylated form of it. WADA lists mechano growth factors under growth factors. No approval as a medicine was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S2.3 — mechano growth factors (MGFs) are named on the 2026 List under growth factors. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The FDA lists PEG-MGF in its ‘nominated but withdrawn’ group of bulk drug substances for compounding that may present significant safety risks; reasons given include immunogenicity risk and no human exposure data. A 2026 review found no human trials.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject; reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · FDA: Certain Bulk Drug Substances for Use in Compounding that May Present Significant Safety Risks (current as of 04/22/2026) · The emerging landscape of performance-enhancing peptides modulating GH-IGF1 axis (Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A small 2015–2017 study of a treatment ‘intended to regenerate the thymus’, built on recombinant human growth hormone, that tracked epigenetic-clock age in about ten men aged 51–65.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.3, growth hormone — named on the 2026 List as ‘Growth hormone (GH), its analogues and fragments’. Prohibited at all times. The status of any other component is not covered here.

What it does to a body

No safety findings are cited here. The study (Fahy 2019, Aging Cell) was small and uncontrolled and reported epigenetic-age and immune-marker changes, not clinical outcomes.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: Fahy et al., Aging Cell 2019: Reversal of epigenetic aging and immunosenescent trends in humans (PubMed record, PMID 31496122) · WADA International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (effective 1 January 2026; copy hosted on CONMEBOL CDN) - S2.2.3

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Somatorelin is the pharmaceutical name for growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), which stimulates growth hormone release. The papers cited use it as a diagnostic or research agent. No approval as a medicine was verified for this use.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.4, growth hormone releasing factors — named on the 2026 List as growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and its analogues; the word ‘somatorelin’ is not printed there. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited here. Human use described is diagnostic challenge testing only, and no trial of body-composition or ageing outcomes is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads IGF-1 in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Recurrent plurihormonal bimorphous pituitary adenoma producing growth hormone, thyrotropin, and prolactin (Arch Pathol Lab Med, 1994)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Myostatin-binding proteins, named together by WADA in S4.3; follistatin is the form discussed in muscle-building circles. No approved follistatin product was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S4.3 — myostatin-binding proteins, for example follistatin and myostatin propeptide, are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human trial of follistatin or myostatin propeptide is cited here, and no safety data are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

An engineered decoy activin receptor that blocks myostatin, used in attempts to treat children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. No approval as a medicine was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S4.3 — ‘decoy activin receptors (e.g. ACE-031)’ are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human safety findings are cited here. The only human use described is in attempts to treat children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy; the decoy receptor acts by blocking myostatin.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · ACE-031 (Wikipedia, secondary source)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A human monoclonal antibody that blocks activin receptor type 2B, studied for muscle loss and for obesity. It is in trials and is not approved for any use.

Why it is prohibited

S4.3, agents preventing activin receptor IIB activation — anti-activin receptor IIB antibodies, for example bimagrumab, are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited. In a trial in 180 adults aged 70 and over with sarcopenia, there was no significant difference from the comparison group in the short physical performance battery, walk distance or gait speed; a phase IIb/III study in sporadic inclusion body myositis failed in 2016.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Rooks et al., JAMA Network Open 2020: Bimagrumab vs Optimized Standard of Care for Treatment of Sarcopenia in Community-Dwelling Older Adults · Bimagrumab (Wikipedia, secondary source)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Antibodies that neutralise myostatin. Apitegromab (Isembyld) was FDA-approved in September 2026 for spinal muscular atrophy in people already on an SMN2-targeted treatment; domagrozumab, landogrozumab and stamulumab are experimental.

Why it is prohibited

S4.3 — apitegromab, domagrozumab, landogrozumab and stamulumab are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data are cited here. No trials in healthy people were found for apitegromab, and no human trials were found for the other three antibodies.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: FDA Novel Drug Approvals for 2026 (last updated 09/28/2026) · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A name used in short-peptide bioregulator research; the related AED literature studies Ala-Glu-Asp.

Evidence and limits

The retrieved primary study concerns gene expression in cultured stem cells. It does not establish joint repair or clinical benefit.

Regulatory context

No human therapeutic approval was verified. The AED research does not validate the identity or effects of a commercial formulation.

Sport status

S0 covers pharmacological substances without current governmental approval for human therapeutic use.

Safety context

Human treatment safety remains unestablished; cell findings cannot resolve systemic risks.

Coaching boundary

Explain the evidence and refer clinical questions to the physician. No prescribing, recommending or sourcing.

Sources: Primary AED cell study · WADA 2026 List

Link to this entry · Research note reviewed 29 September 2026. Approval and sport status are specific to the exact substance and formulation.

What it is

A synthetic 15-amino-acid fragment of a gastric-juice protein, studied since the 1990s almost entirely in rodents by one group in Zagreb.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances: BPC-157 is explicitly named. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown, because it is unstudied in people: immunogenicity and impurities are the FDA’s stated concerns; pro-angiogenic actions are a theoretical worry with any tumour; online products are unregulated and often mislabelled.

What the practice does instead

Explained honestly, including the July 2026 vote. Tendon and ligament problems are assessed with a physiotherapist or sports physician, imaged where needed and loaded progressively; the practice measures the return, not the vial. For tested athletes the subject is closed.

What it is

A short synthetic fragment of thymosin beta-4 covering its actin-binding region, sold as if it were the whole protein. It is not the molecule used in any clinical trial.

Why it is prohibited

S2.3, growth factors and growth factor modulators: thymosin-beta-4 ‘and its derivatives, e.g. TB-500’. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in people; immunogenicity and impurity risks flagged by the FDA; a growth-factor modulator is a theoretical concern with any tumour; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a fragment with no human data, and one of the substances laboratories look for. Injury is managed with a physiotherapist or sports physician, imaging via referral, and a measured return-to-play block. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A naturally occurring 43-amino-acid protein that regulates actin and is released from platelets at sites of injury. It has had a genuine, if difficult, clinical development programme.

Why it is prohibited

S2.3, growth factors and growth factor modulators — thymosin-beta-4 is named. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Eye-drop trials report little beyond local irritation; systemic safety is unstudied; as a growth-factor modulator it is a theoretical concern with tumours; injectable supply is unregulated.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a serious research molecule whose trials are in the eye, not the hamstring. Soft-tissue injury is assessed with a physiotherapist or sports physician and rehabilitated on a measured timeline. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

An 11-amino-acid peptide derived from erythropoietin that acts on the ‘innate repair receptor’ without stimulating red-cell production.

Why it is prohibited

S2.1.5, innate repair receptor agonists: ARA-290 is not named, but that is the receptor it was designed for, and it is in any case an unapproved substance. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Injection-site pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, headache and nausea in the trial; one serious adverse event of suicidal ideation was judged possibly related; long-term safety unknown; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Explained as an interesting orphan-disease candidate. Nerve symptoms are referred to a neurologist or sports physician. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A tripeptide taken from the tail of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that has anti-inflammatory activity in cell and mouse models of colitis and skin inflammation.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in people; unregulated capsules and vials of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a mouse result sold as a gut cure. Persistent gut symptoms are referred to a gastroenterologist; the practice tracks food, sleep and training load to support the clinician’s plan. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

The only human cathelicidin: a 37-amino-acid antimicrobial peptide made by skin and immune cells that kills microbes and signals to immune cells.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Local reactions at higher topical concentrations; cytotoxicity to human cells at high concentrations in the laboratory; reproductive toxicity signals in animals; unknown systemic safety; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a wound-gel candidate, not an infection cure. Suspected infection is a GP’s or physician’s matter the same day. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Human evidence

A 148-person trial of topical LL-37 found no significant improvement in healing in the full study population. This does not establish systemic wellness use.

Sources: 2021 randomised trial

What it is

Growth-factor proteins that WADA prohibits as classes. Becaplermin (recombinant PDGF-BB) was authorised in the EU for chronic diabetic ulcers and palifermin for oral mucositis after chemotherapy; both EU authorisations have since been withdrawn.

Why it is prohibited

S2.3 — platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factors, hepatocyte growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human trial of these growth factors for sport use is cited, and no safety data for such use are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it, and clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Regranex EPAR page, EMA · Kepivance EPAR page, EMA

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Larazotide acetate is an eight-amino-acid peptide that acts as a tight-junction regulator to restore intestinal barrier function. It has been tested in trials as an adjunct treatment for coeliac disease; no approval as a medicine was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances — not named individually; drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued are prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited here. Human trials were in adults with coeliac disease only, and no trial in people without coeliac disease or phase III result is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Larazotide acetate in patients with coeliac disease undergoing a gluten challenge: a randomised placebo-controlled study (Aliment Pharmacol Ther, 2012) · Larazotide acetate: a pharmacological peptide approach to tight junction regulation (Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol, 2021)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A metabolic research compound used to investigate cellular energy signalling.

Evidence and limits

Short human experiments measured muscle glucose uptake. They did not establish an endurance or longevity treatment.

Regulatory context

Research findings do not provide a performance indication or establish a safe enhancement use.

Sport status

Named under WADA S4.4.1, metabolic modulators; prohibited at all times.

Safety context

Experimental metabolic effects are not a safety assessment for repeated use.

Coaching boundary

Explain the evidence and refer clinical questions to the physician. No prescribing, recommending or sourcing.

Sources: Human metabolic study · WADA 2026 List

Link to this entry · Research note reviewed 29 September 2026. Approval and sport status are specific to the exact substance and formulation.

What it is

A single peptide that activates the GLP-1, GIP and glucagon receptors: Eli Lilly’s candidate for the next generation of obesity medicines.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances: drugs under clinical development are expressly covered. Prohibited at all times; a trial participant who is a tested athlete would need a TUE.

What it does to a body

Gastrointestinal effects that increase with dose; the GLP-1 class warnings apply by analogy; long-term safety unknown; grey-market product has no quality control at all.

What the practice does instead

Explained as promising and unfinished. There is nothing to coach around until a physician can prescribe an approved product; until then the practice programmes the deficit, the protein and the training, and measures the DXA.

What it is

Cagrilintide is a long-acting analogue of amylin, the pancreatic hormone that slows gastric emptying and signals fullness; CagriSema pairs it with semaglutide in one fixed combination.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances (drugs under clinical development). Prohibited at all times until an approval exists; verify on Global DRO after any approval.

What it does to a body

Gastrointestinal effects, injection-site reactions, the GLP-1 class warnings by analogy; long-term safety of amylin agonism unknown; grey-market vials are unverified.

What the practice does instead

Explained as unfinished. Nothing changes in the programme until a physician can prescribe an approved product; the practice measures the DXA and reads the bloods.

What it is

A small molecule that inhibits nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme raised in fat tissue in obesity. It is a research tool sold as a drug.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times; its metabolic mechanism would also sit under S4 if WADA chose to name it, with the same result.

What it does to a body

Unknown in humans; NNMT sits in central metabolic pathways and the consequences of inhibiting it in people have never been measured; capsules of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a mouse experiment in a capsule. Fat loss is programmed with an energy deficit, protein, training and sleep and measured by DXA; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A peptide hormone that lowers blood glucose. Human insulin and long-acting analogues, including insulin icodec, are diabetes medicines.

Why it is prohibited

S4.4.2 — insulins and insulin-mimetics, for example S519 and S597, are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited here. Insulin is a diabetes medicine that lowers blood glucose, and no trial of its use in people without diabetes is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads glucose and HbA1c in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Actrapid EPAR summary, EMA · FDA Novel Drug Approvals for 2026 (last updated 09/28/2026)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A small-molecule activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), added as a named example in S4.4.1 for 2026. Sport Ireland says it has never been approved for human use.

Why it is prohibited

S4.4.1, activators of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) — BAM15 is named as an example on the 2026 List, alongside AICAR. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Sport Ireland states that this substance has never been approved for human use and presents some serious health risks; no specific effect on the body is described.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads glucose and HbA1c in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (ITA copy): S4.4.1 · Sport Ireland: main changes in the 2026 Prohibited List

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Rev-erb-alpha agonists, named as examples in the metabolic modulators section of the 2026 List. No approval as a medicine was verified for either.

Why it is prohibited

S4.4.1, metabolic modulators — SR9009 and SR9011 are named as examples on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human efficacy or safety data are cited here, so no specific harm can be stated.

What the practice does instead

Clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; the practice explains the subject; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (ITA copy): S4.4.1 · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (VADA copy): S4.4.1

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A metabolic modulator named by itself in S4.4.3 of the 2026 List. No approval as a medicine was verified, and no description from a regulator is cited.

Why it is prohibited

S4.4.3 — meldonium is named by itself on the 2026 List as a metabolic modulator. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human data and no safety information are cited for meldonium.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads glucose and HbA1c in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (ITA copy): S4.4.3 · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (VADA copy): S4.4.3

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

An anti-angina medicine. An EMA review kept it only as add-on treatment for angina and concluded that other uses should no longer be authorised.

Why it is prohibited

S4.4.4 — trimetazidine is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

EMA concluded that for tinnitus, vertigo and visual-field disturbances the benefits no longer outweigh the risks, and that these uses should no longer be authorised. For athletic use, no evidence is cited here.

What the practice does instead

For a tested athlete the subject is closed; the practice explains it, and clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · EMA: trimetazidine referral (angina)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A dual agonist of the glucagon receptor and the GLP-1 receptor, in late-stage trials for obesity and for MASH, a form of fatty-liver disease. It is not yet approved for use.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances — drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued are prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

A commentary on the phase 3 SYNCHRONIZE-1 trial lists gastrointestinal tolerability and treatment discontinuation among its limits, alongside no active comparator, unexpectedly high placebo weight loss and limited outcome data.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads glucose and HbA1c in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · How does survodutide work? Plain language review of a potential new medication for obesity and liver disease (Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, May 2026) · Synchronizing obesity management with survodutide (Exploration of Drug Science, 17 August 2026)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

An investigational antibody-peptide conjugate (AMG133) described as a GIPR antagonist/GLP-1R agonist and studied for obesity. Antibody-peptide conjugates combine the long half-life of monoclonal antibodies with the pharmacological activity of peptides. No approval as a medicine was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances — drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued are prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data are cited here. A phase 2 trial in obesity was published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2025; no phase 3 data are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads glucose and HbA1c in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: FDA Novel Drug Approvals for 2026 · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Once-Monthly Maridebart Cafraglutide for the Treatment of Obesity - A Phase 2 Trial (Jastreboff et al., N Engl J Med, 2025)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

An investigational selective, long-acting amylin receptor agonist (an amylin mimetic) being developed for obesity. No approval as a medicine was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances — drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued are prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

In a short phase 1 placebo-controlled study in 100 participants, gastrointestinal adverse events were infrequent: diarrhoea in 10% of participants, nausea in 8% and vomiting in 4%. No later-phase results are cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads glucose and HbA1c in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: FDA Novel Drug Approvals for 2026 · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Eloralintide, a selective, long-acting amylin receptor agonist for treatment of obesity: Phase 1 proof of concept (Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, January 2026)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A research peptide designed to disrupt FOXO4–p53 interaction in senescent cells. FOXO-DRI is a shortened name used for this research topic.

Evidence and limits

Cell and mouse findings do not establish a safe human senolytic or longevity treatment.

Regulatory context

No human therapeutic approval was verified; the established research name is FOXO4-DRI.

Sport status

Unapproved pharmacological substances are covered by WADA S0.

Safety context

Human safety and long-term effects remain unestablished.

Coaching boundary

Explain the evidence and refer clinical questions to the physician. No prescribing, recommending or sourcing.

Sources: Original cell and mouse research · WADA 2026 List

Link to this entry · Research note reviewed 29 September 2026. Approval and sport status are specific to the exact substance and formulation.

What it is

A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA that moves to the nucleus under metabolic stress and switches on AMPK-linked genes; levels rise with exercise and fall with age.

Why it is prohibited

S4.4.1, metabolic modulators — named as an AMPK activator beside AICAR and BAM15, not merely caught by S0. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in people; immunogenicity and impurities flagged by the FDA; unregulated vials.

What the practice does instead

The practice measures VO₂max, fasting insulin and HbA1c, and programmes the training that raises MOTS-c the legal way. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A 24-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA, discovered in 2001 as the first mitochondrial-derived peptide; it protects cells from stress in laboratory models and its circulating level changes with age and disease.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in people; unregulated vials of unverified identity.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a biomarker, not a therapy. The practice measures what matters — VO₂max, fasting insulin, lipids, DXA — and refers clinical questions to a physician. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A synthetic tetrapeptide modelled on epithalamin, a bovine pineal extract, from Vladimir Khavinson’s institute in St Petersburg.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in independent hands; immunogenicity and impurities flagged by the FDA; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Sleep timing is tracked, and coaching addresses light exposure, meal timing and training. The practice does not chase telomeres, and it says so. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

Investigational inhibitors studied as senolytics, which kill senescent cells. UBX1325 (BCL-xL) was tested in diabetic macular oedema; navitoclax (BCL-2/BCL-xL) was developed for cancers. Neither is approved.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances — drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued are covered by the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety findings are cited here. UBX1325 was tested in 52 patients with diabetic macular oedema in an eye-specific trial; navitoclax has been studied in cancers. No human ageing or healthspan trial was found.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it, clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing, and for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (effective 1 January 2026; copy hosted on CONMEBOL CDN) · UNITY Biotechnology press release, 5 May 2025: complete 36-week ASPIRE results · Chang et al., Nature Medicine 2016: Clearance of senescent cells by ABT263 rejuvenates aged hematopoietic stem cells in mice

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Gene doping is the use of nucleic acids or nucleic acid analogues that may alter genome sequences or gene expression, including gene editing, silencing and transfer. TERT, follistatin and klotho gene therapies have been reported only in self-experiments and animals.

Why it is prohibited

M3.1, gene doping — the 2026 List prohibits the use of nucleic acids or nucleic acid analogues that may alter genome sequences or gene expression by any mechanism. Follistatin is also covered by S4.3. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No controlled human trial of gene therapy for performance or longevity is cited, and no safety data are cited. The FDA did not authorise the reported self-experiments.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject, and clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: World Anti-Doping Code International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (hosted copy of the WADA PDF), M3.1 · WADA International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (effective 1 January 2026; copy hosted on CONMEBOL CDN) - S4.3 · Wikipedia: BioViva (secondary source)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Use of normal or genetically modified cells or cell components, for example nuclei and organelles such as mitochondria and ribosomes. Cell components were added to the existing prohibition for 2026.

Why it is prohibited

M3.2 — the use of normal or genetically modified cells or cell components (nuclei and organelles such as mitochondria and ribosomes) is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No harms or clinical data are cited here. NADA Germany states that use of cell components with the potential to enhance sport performance has been added to the List.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject, clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing, and for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: World Anti-Doping Code International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (hosted copy of the WADA PDF), M3.2 · WADA Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes 2026 (hosted copy) · WADA publishes Prohibited List 2026 (NADA Germany, 25 September 2025)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A seven-amino-acid fragment of spadin, a natural peptide that blocks the TREK-1 potassium channel, engineered in France as a fast-acting antidepressant candidate.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in people; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Low mood is referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist, promptly. The practice tracks the sleep and load that travel with it. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

An orally active angiotensin IV analogue that activates the hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met system, developed at Washington State University as a dementia candidate.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown in people; it is a potent agonist of a growth-factor pathway with no safety data at all; unregulated capsules.

What the practice does instead

Explained as a rat result. Memory complaints go to a GP or neurologist; the practice reads sleep and load. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

A nine-amino-acid peptide isolated from rabbit brain in the 1970s and named for a sleep effect that later trials struggled to reproduce.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Unknown beyond the small old trials; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Sleep timing and wearable data, where useful, inform coaching on light, caffeine and training load. Persistent insomnia is referred to a physician or sleep clinic. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

P021 is a small neurotrophic and neurogenic peptide mimetic compound derived from ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). Papers describe it as a possible therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders; no approval as a medicine was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances — not named individually; drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued are prohibited at all times. P021 is a pre-clinical compound.

What it does to a body

Every study cited is in cells or animals; no human trial is cited here, so there is no human evidence on safety.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Neurotrophic Treatment Initiated During Early Postnatal Development Prevents the Alzheimer-Like Behavior and Synaptic Dysfunction (J Alzheimers Dis, 2021; 3xTg-AD mice)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A short peptide investigated in cell experiments and experimental prostate-inflammation models.

Evidence and limits

These studies do not establish prostate or longevity benefit in people.

Regulatory context

The peptide identity is reported in the primary literature; no human therapeutic approval was verified.

Sport status

Unapproved pharmacological substances are covered by WADA S0.

Safety context

Human clinical safety is not established by cell or animal experiments.

Coaching boundary

Explain the evidence and refer clinical questions to the physician. No prescribing, recommending or sourcing.

Sources: Primary peptide-identity paper · Experimental prostate study · WADA 2026 List

Link to this entry · Research note reviewed 29 September 2026. Approval and sport status are specific to the exact substance and formulation.

What it is

The hypothalamic peptide that sits above GnRH and switches on the reproductive axis; a research tool in fertility and sexual medicine.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.1, testosterone-stimulating peptides in males — kisspeptin and its agonist analogues are named. Prohibited at all times for male athletes; female athletes should verify on Global DRO, because the class is worded for males.

What it does to a body

Well tolerated in the short trials, which is not the same as safe with repeated use; the effects of chronic stimulation of the reproductive axis are unknown; unregulated supply.

What the practice does instead

Reported libido concerns are reviewed alongside sleep, energy availability and training load. Clinical interpretation of the panel (testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH, oestradiol) belongs to an endocrinologist or sexual-medicine physician.

What it is

A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that darkens skin, suppresses appetite and causes erections; its development as a medicine was halted on safety grounds.

Why it is prohibited

S0, non-approved substances. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Nausea, vomiting, flushing, yawning, priapism, darkening and new moles, melanoma reports, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome; unregulated products of unverified content.

What the practice does instead

Skin and moles are a dermatologist’s matter; the practice tells clients plainly why this one is dangerous. For a tested athlete the subject is closed.

What it is

Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone given as a drug. Factrel, a prescription GnRH injection, was approved by the FDA on 30 September 1982; all products are now listed as discontinued. No approval as a medicine was verified for testosterone support or sport use.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.1 — gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH, gonadorelin) and agonist analogues are named on the 2026 List as testosterone-stimulating peptides in males. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

WADA lists it for stimulating testosterone in males. No safety or trial data for testosterone support or sport use are cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads testosterone in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: Drugs@FDA overview, NDA 018123 (Factrel) · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Chorionic gonadotrophin is a pregnancy hormone used as a fertility drug; in men it stimulates testicular testosterone production. LH is a pituitary hormone that drives testosterone production in men; recombinant LH is a fertility medicine.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.1 — chorionic gonadotrophin (CG) and, in males, LH are named on the 2026 List; both act on testosterone production in men. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited. The approved uses cited are fertility treatments; no trial of use for testosterone support is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads testosterone in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Performance Enhancing Hormone Doping in Sport - Endotext (NCBI Bookshelf NBK305894)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Peptide analogues of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, used mainly for prostate cancer and hormone-dependent conditions. Leuprorelin, triptorelin, goserelin, histrelin and nafarelin have US approvals; none was verified for buserelin or deslorelin.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.1 — buserelin, deslorelin, goserelin, histrelin, leuprorelin, nafarelin and triptorelin are named on the 2026 List as testosterone-stimulating GnRH agonist analogues. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

GnRH agonists produce an initial transient rise in sex hormones, including LH and testosterone (the ‘flare’), before suppression. No trials for sport use are cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads testosterone and oestradiol in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Analogues - LiverTox (NCBI Bookshelf NBK547863) · Performance Enhancing Hormone Doping in Sport - Endotext (NCBI Bookshelf NBK305894)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Replacement for men with hypogonadism caused by disease of the testes or pituitary.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, at all times. A TUE needs organic hypogonadism proven with two morning samples, LH, FSH and SHBG; age-related use is refused.

What it does to a body

Raised blood pressure, polycythaemia, infertility, acne, sleep apnoea; supraphysiological use adds cardiac and psychiatric harm.

What the practice does instead

Two morning samples, a trend, an endocrinologist; enhancement is never presented as replacement. See peptides and hormones.

What it is

An adrenal steroid, precursor of testosterone and oestrogen, that falls with age.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids, at all times; TUEs only for adrenal insufficiency or the prasterone insert.

What it does to a body

Acne, hair loss, virilisation in women, lipid changes; contaminated supplements have ended careers.

What the practice does instead

Read as DHEA-S in the stress axis, never supplemented; adrenal questions go to an endocrinologist. See peptides and hormones.

What it is

Corticotrophin (ACTH) is a pituitary hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands. Tetracosactide (cosyntropin) is a synthetic ACTH analogue and corticorelin is corticotrophin-releasing factor; all are approved prescription products.

Why it is prohibited

S2.2.2 — corticotrophins and their releasing factors, for example corticorelin and tetracosactide, are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited here, and no evidence for use in sport is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads cortisol in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Drugs@FDA overview, NDA 020162 (Acthrel) · Drugs@FDA overview, NDA 008372 (Acthar Gel)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A vasopressin-analogue peptide drug. DDAVP injection (desmopressin acetate) was first approved by the FDA on 30 March 1984 as a prescription medicine.

Why it is prohibited

S5 — desmopressin is named on the 2026 List among diuretics and masking agents, beside mannitol and probenecid. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect information is cited here. It is an approved prescription peptide, and no sport-performance evidence was found.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Drugs@FDA overview, NDA 018938 (DDAVP)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid. The US label covers the decanoate ester for anaemia of renal insufficiency. It is a Schedule III controlled substance in the US.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — nandrolone is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The label’s warnings cover peliosis hepatis, liver cell tumours and lipid changes. No benefit for muscle gain or performance is shown in the sources cited; the labelled use, renal anaemia, is a narrow clinical population.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads lipids and ApoB in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: DailyMed: nandrolone decanoate injection label · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic androgenic hormone (an anabolic steroid), historically prescribed for weight gain after surgery, injury, chronic infection or trauma.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — oxandrolone is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The FDA determined in 2023 that Oxandrin tablets were withdrawn for reasons of safety or effectiveness. Its notice cites a 1984 advisory finding of no evidence of efficacy and hepatic risks. MedlinePlus states that oxandrolone has not been shown to improve athletic ability.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads liver and kidney function in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Federal Register: FDA determination on Oxandrin (oxandrolone) tablets, 2023 · MedlinePlus: oxandrolone

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic androgenic anabolic steroid. A 2004 FDA label copy for Anadrol-50 lists treatment of anaemias caused by deficient red cell production.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — oxymetholone is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The label states ‘Anabolic steroids have not been shown to enhance athletic ability.’ No trials for muscle gain are cited; the labelled anaemia use is a narrow clinical population. No adverse-effect data are cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads full blood count in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: FDA label (2004 copy): Anadrol-50 (oxymetholone) · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic 17-alpha-alkylated androgen, long prescribed for prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema; a review names it, with danazol, among the most widely prescribed attenuated androgens for that use.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — stanozolol is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

A review of hereditary angioedema treatment says attenuated androgens, with danazol and stanozolol the most widely prescribed, have adverse effects, one of the most important being hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity).

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads liver and kidney function in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · PMC: Therapeutic management of hereditary angioedema (adverse effects)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic anabolic steroid. The FDA lists trenbolone acetate among implants approved for beef cattle and sheep. No approval for human use was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — trenbolone is named on the 2026 List and in the US steroid statute. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human efficacy or safety data are cited here. The sources describe livestock use only, and the DEA fact sheet lists trenbolone among Schedule III anabolic steroids.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads testosterone and oestradiol in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · FDA: steroid hormone implants used for growth in food-producing animals · 21 U.S. Code section 802 (anabolic steroid definition and list)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

An anabolic steroid (boldenone undecylenate). The only labelled use cited is veterinary, for horses, in a 2005 FDA rule. No approval for use in people was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — boldenone is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human safety data are cited here. The DEA states that anabolic steroids are Schedule III substances under the US Controlled Substances Act, and boldenone is named in the statutory list of anabolic steroids.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads testosterone and SHBG in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Federal Register: boldenone undecylenate new animal drug rule, 2005 · DEA drug fact sheet: anabolic steroids (document names boldenone)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid, named on the 2026 List, in the US statute’s anabolic steroid list and in the DEA steroid fact sheet. No approved indication is cited.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — metandienone is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No human efficacy or safety data are cited here. The DEA fact sheet and the US statute list it as an anabolic steroid, and anabolic steroids are Schedule III substances.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads testosterone, SHBG and oestradiol in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · DEA drug fact sheet: anabolic steroids (document names methandrostenolone) · 21 U.S. Code section 802 (anabolic steroid definition and list)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic anabolic androgenic steroid named in S1.1. No approval as a medicine was verified. It appears in real anti-doping cases, including a 2025 case in which a clostebol metabolite was reported.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — clostebol is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited here. The US statute lists clostebol among anabolic steroids.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads testosterone and SHBG in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · ITA: CAS award in a clostebol case (ski-mountaineering athlete) · 21 U.S. Code section 802 (anabolic steroid definition and list)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Further anabolic androgenic steroids named on the List. Methyltestosterone and fluoxymesterone have labelled uses in testosterone deficiency; danazol is used for endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease and hereditary angioedema prophylaxis.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — prohibited ‘when administered exogenously, including but not limited to’ the names printed on the 2026 List.

What it does to a body

A review of hereditary angioedema treatment calls danazol and stanozolol the most widely prescribed attenuated androgens, with side effects including hepatotoxicity. No human safety data are cited for the other names, and no evidence for athletic use.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads testosterone and SHBG in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · MedlinePlus: danazol · PMC: Therapeutic management of hereditary angioedema: past, present, and future

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Steroid precursors and designer androgens, some marketed as supplements for muscle building. The DEA was not aware of any legitimate medical use or New Drug Application for boldione, desoxymethyltestosterone or 19-nor-4,9(10)-androstadienedione.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids — the 2026 List names steroid precursors and designer androgens, including androstenediol, androstenedione, boldione and 7-keto-DHEA, and related compounds. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data are cited for this group. In 2009 the DEA classified three of these steroids as Schedule III anabolic steroids; it had identified 61 dietary supplements promoted for building muscle and increasing strength.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads testosterone, oestradiol and SHBG in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Federal Register: three steroids classified as Schedule III anabolic steroids, 2009

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A synthetic hormone used as a type of menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The NHS says it helps to improve menopause symptoms such as hot flushes, low mood and vaginal dryness or irritation.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1 — tibolone is named on the 2026 List beside tetrahydrogestrinone, trenbolone and trestolone. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The NHS says it may not be as effective as combined HRT because it may not increase oestrogen levels as much. No adverse-effect information is cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads oestradiol in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: NHS: about tibolone · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A drug for airway obstruction in horses; the only US label cited is a veterinary one. WADA lists it under S1.2, other anabolic agents. No approval for use in people was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S1.2, other anabolic agents — clenbuterol is named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The veterinary label states ‘Not for use in humans.’ No human safety data are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; for a tested athlete the subject is closed; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · DailyMed: Ventipulmin (clenbuterol) syrup label

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Ractopamine, zeranol and zilpaterol are animal growth promoters; ractopamine is labelled for finishing swine and zeranol is an FDA-approved cattle and sheep implant. Osilodrostat (Isturisa) is a cortisol-synthesis inhibitor authorised in the EU for Cushing’s syndrome.

Why it is prohibited

S1.2, other anabolic agents — named on the 2026 List ‘including, but not limited to’ clenbuterol, osilodrostat and ractopamine, with zeranol and zilpaterol. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The ractopamine label states ‘Not for use in humans’. No human efficacy or safety data are cited for the livestock products. For osilodrostat, no anabolic or performance data are cited, and anabolic or performance use is not an approved use.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject and reads cortisol in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · DailyMed: Paylean (ractopamine) label · EMA: Isturisa (osilodrostat) EPAR

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A class of bronchodilator medicines used for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including salbutamol (albuterol), formoterol and salmeterol. Higenamine is also named in the class.

Why it is prohibited

S3, beta-2 agonists — all selective and non-selective beta-2 agonists, including all optical isomers, are prohibited at all times; a urinary threshold applies to inhaled salbutamol and formoterol, above which a result is not consistent with therapeutic use and counts as an adverse analytical finding.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited for the drugs in this class, higenamine included.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains the subject; for a tested athlete the subject is closed; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · MedlinePlus: albuterol

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Two experimental synthetic androgens, both 19-nortestosterone derivatives. Dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) has been studied in healthy men as an experimental male contraceptive; trestolone (MENT) is a potent synthetic androgen. No approval for either was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S1.1, anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) — trestolone (MENT) and dimethandrolone are both named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

A short placebo-controlled study of DMAU in 100 healthy men found marked suppression of serum testosterone, LH and FSH and dose-related changes in weight, haematocrit, HDL cholesterol, corrected QT interval and sexual desire; no serious adverse events were reported. No long-term safety data are cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads testosterone and oestradiol in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · Effects of 28 Days of Oral Dimethandrolone Undecanoate in Healthy Men: A Prototype Male Pill (Thirumalai et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab) · Placebo-controlled study of dimethandrolone undecanoate in healthy men (Thirumalai et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 2020)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A prohibited method rather than a substance: tampering, or attempting to tamper, to alter the integrity and validity of samples collected during doping control, including sample substitution or adulteration.

Why it is prohibited

M2.1 — tampering, or attempting to tamper, with samples collected during doping control is named on the 2026 List as a prohibited method. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No effect on the body is described, because this is a method rather than a substance. What it targets is the integrity and validity of samples collected during doping control.

What the practice does instead

For a tested athlete the subject is closed; the practice explains it, and clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing.

Sources: World Anti-Doping Code International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (hosted copy of the WADA PDF), M2.1 · Doping agent classes and substances 2026 (Finnish Antidoping Agency)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A non-steroidal anti-oestrogen widely used in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. LiverTox gives US approval in 1977; indications are breast cancer treatment and risk reduction in high-risk women.

Why it is prohibited

S4.2 — tamoxifen is named on the 2026 List beside raloxifene and toremifene. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect information is cited here. For performance or male ‘optimisation’ use, no source is cited; the approved uses are breast cancer treatment and risk reduction.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads oestradiol, testosterone and SHBG in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: NCBI LiverTox: tamoxifen · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy at worldnaturalbb.com)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Clomifene is an anti-oestrogenic fertility medicine, approved in the US in 1967 for ovulatory dysfunction in women wishing to conceive. Enclomiphene is its trans-isomer, studied for secondary hypogonadism in men; no approval was verified for it.

Why it is prohibited

S4.2, anti-oestrogenic substances — clomifene is named on the 2026 List, and S4.2 is open-ended (‘including, but not limited to’). Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited here. For enclomiphene, an FDA application received a Complete Response in December 2015 and an EMA assessment recommended refusal in 2018.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads testosterone and oestradiol in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy at worldnaturalbb.com) · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · FDA briefing document: enclomiphene (regulatory history)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Drugs that block oestrogen synthesis. Anastrozole, letrozole and exemestane are approved for oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer; formestane, testolactone, aminoglutethimide and further compounds are also named in S4.1.

Why it is prohibited

S4.1 — the 2026 List names anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane, formestane, testolactone, aminoglutethimide and others; alpha-naphthoflavone (printed on the List as 2-phenylbenzo[h]chromen-4-one) was added for 2026, according to Sport Ireland. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Aromatase inhibitors block the enzyme aromatase and so oestrogen synthesis. Sport Ireland says alpha-naphthoflavone could change the body’s natural hormone levels and potentially promote anabolic effects. No adverse-effect data for performance use are cited here.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads oestradiol and testosterone in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: NCBI LiverTox: aromatase inhibitors · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy at worldnaturalbb.com) · Sport Ireland: main changes in the 2026 Prohibited List

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Raloxifene, a selective oestrogen receptor modulator, is used for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and to lower breast-cancer risk in high-risk postmenopausal women. The rest are approved breast-cancer, menopause and osteoporosis drugs, except cyclofenil, for which no approval was verified.

Why it is prohibited

S4.2, anti-oestrogenic substances — bazedoxifene, cyclofenil, elacestrant, fulvestrant, ospemifene, raloxifene and toremifene are named on the 2026 List. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect data are cited for these drugs, and no use in sport is cited.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads oestradiol in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy at worldnaturalbb.com) · MedlinePlus: raloxifene · NCI: hormone therapy drugs for breast cancer (toremifene)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Diuretics and masking agents. Spironolactone is a diuretic (‘water tablets’) used for oedema, heart failure and high blood pressure; S5 also names vaptans, plasma expanders, probenecid and desmopressin.

Why it is prohibited

S5 — ‘all diuretics and masking agents, including all optical isomers’ are prohibited, with named examples such as spironolactone, furosemide and thiazides. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

The NHS describes spironolactone as a diuretic that makes people pass more urine. No adverse-effect information is cited here, and no clinical sources are cited for most other S5 names.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads liver and kidney function in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · NHS: spironolactone

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a protein hormone that stimulates red-blood-cell production; recombinant copies, darbepoetin and CERA are anaemia medicines. The class also covers EPO-mimetic agents and chemically modified erythropoietins.

Why it is prohibited

S2.1.1 — erythropoietins, darbepoetins, EPO-based constructs and EPO-mimetic agents are named on the 2026 List; S2.1.5 names asialo EPO and carbamylated EPO. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

Peginesatide, an EPO-mimetic, drew provisional EMA concerns about increased risk of death or cardiovascular problems compared with similar medicines, and serious allergic reactions in the US before its February 2013 removal; its EU application was withdrawn. No safety data are cited for the other members.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads full blood count and ferritin in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Omontys withdrawn-application page, EMA · Retacrit EPAR summary, EMA

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Luspatercept, a recombinant fusion protein of activin receptor IIB and IgG1 Fc, is authorised in the EU for anaemia in myelodysplastic syndromes or beta thalassaemia needing transfusions. Sotatercept, an activin-blocking protein, is for pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Why it is prohibited

S2.1.4 — luspatercept and sotatercept are named on the 2026 List as TGF-beta signalling inhibitors. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No adverse-effect information is cited here. Luspatercept is approved for transfusion-dependent anaemia and sotatercept for pulmonary arterial hypertension. No evidence for use in healthy people was found.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads full blood count in the panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: Reblozyl EPAR summary, EMA · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy hosted by Japan Anti-Doping Agency, playtruejapan.org) · Winrevair EPAR summary, EMA

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Roxadustat, daprodustat and vadadustat act on the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway to raise red-cell production and are medicines for anaemia of chronic kidney disease. The List also names cobalt, xenon (a gas), IOX2, molidustat and the GATA inhibitor K-11706.

Why it is prohibited

S2.1.2, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) activating agents — cobalt, daprodustat, IOX2, molidustat, roxadustat, vadadustat and xenon are named on the 2026 List; K-11706 is named in S2.1.3, GATA inhibitors. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

No safety data are cited for use outside anaemia of chronic kidney disease, and none for cobalt, xenon, IOX2, molidustat or K-11706.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it; reads the full blood count in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: World Anti-Doping Code International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (hosted copy of the WADA PDF), S2.1.2 · WADA 2026 Prohibited List (ITA copy): S2.1.3 · EMA: Vafseo (vadadustat) EPAR

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

Prohibited methods: giving or re-giving blood or red-cell products, withdrawing blood, artificially enhancing oxygen uptake, transport or delivery and, new in 2026, carbon-monoxide re-breathing equipment.

Why it is prohibited

M1, prohibited methods — any quantity of blood or red-cell products; blood withdrawal unless for analytical purposes or accredited donation; artificially enhancing oxygen delivery (inhaled oxygen excluded); non-diagnostic carbon monoxide use. Prohibited at all times.

What it does to a body

WADA’s 2026 summary says non-diagnostic carbon monoxide use was added because it can increase erythropoiesis under certain conditions. No performance-trial or safety data are cited here.

What the practice does instead

Clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; the practice explains it and reads full blood count in the panel; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: World Anti-Doping Code International Standard Prohibited List 2026 (hosted copy of the WADA PDF), M1.1 · WADA Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes 2026 (hosted copy)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

CNTO 530 is an erythropoietin (EPO) mimetic: a 58 kD antibody Fc-domain fusion protein. EPO-Fc is named on the List only as an ‘EPO-based construct’. No approval as a medicine was verified; published work is preclinical.

Why it is prohibited

S2.1.1, erythropoietin receptor agonists — the 2026 List names EPO-Fc as an EPO-based construct and CNTO-530 as an EPO-mimetic agent. Prohibited at all times, whatever their approval status.

What it does to a body

No human trial of either is cited here, so there is no human evidence of safety; the published work is limited to cells, mice, rats and rabbits.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains it and reads full blood count in the blood panel; clinical questions go to the right clinician in writing; for a tested athlete the subject is closed.

Sources: WADA 2026 Prohibited List (copy published by the International Testing Agency) · CNTO 530: molecular pharmacology in human UT-7EPO cells and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in mice (J Biotechnol, 2008)

Link to this entry · Status checked 1 October 2026 against the 2026 Prohibited List.

What it is

A business model: saline or Ringer’s with vitamins, minerals and amino acids, named for an American physician and sold by symptom rather than diagnosis.

Why it is prohibited

M2.2, at all times: any drip over 100 mL in 12 hours outside hospital treatment, surgery or clinical diagnostics is a prohibited method whatever it contains, and USADA states no TUE is granted for infusions from boutique or concierge clinics.

What it does to a body

Bloodstream and fungal infections from non-sterile compounding, documented by the FDA; air embolism, phlebitis and fluid overload; electrolyte errors from unlabelled mixes.

What the practice does instead

A hydration plan is written from the client’s measured sweat rate. Dehydration that needs a vein is a hospital matter.

What it is

A reactive form of oxygen from a corona-discharge device, applied to blood, tissue or bowel on the theory that a controlled oxidative stress provokes a beneficial response.

Why it is prohibited

Major autohaemotherapy withdraws blood, treats it chemically and reinfuses it: USADA states it is prohibited under M1, at all times. Rectal insufflation is permitted. Ozonated saline in a drip is caught by M2.2.

What it does to a body

Inhaled ozone injures the lung and the FDA rule names pulmonary oedema; blood handling outside a transfusion service risks contamination and infection; direct intravenous gas risks fatal embolism.

What the practice does instead

The practice explains why a gas the regulator calls toxic is not an immune strategy and why a tested athlete cannot go near the blood routes.

What it is

A hospital procedure for antibody-driven diseases, repurposed on the theory that removing old plasma proteins rejuvenates the body.

Why it is prohibited

At all times. M1.1 prohibits withdrawing blood or blood components, including apheresis, except for analytical purposes, including medical and doping tests, or donation at an accredited collection centre; M1.3 prohibits intravascular manipulation of blood or its components by physical or chemical means; intravenous albumin is an S5 plasma expander.

What it does to a body

Hypocalcaemia from citrate, hypotension, reactions to albumin, bleeding from clotting-factor loss, infection at the access line, and removal of antibodies the client needs.

What the practice does instead

The practice reads the 2025 trial with the client, including who paid and what was measured. VO₂max, strength and ApoB move with training at a fraction of the cost.