Substances: Hormones and related substances

The following hormones and related substances are prohibited:

Status in Sport

Hormones and related substances are prohibited in and out of competition under the World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (effective from 01/01/07). Luteinising hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) are only prohibited in males.

Note: Mimetics are substances with a pharmacological effect similar to that of another substance, regardless of the fact that it has a different chemical structure. 

Whereas analogues are substances derived from the modification or alteration of the chemical structure of another substance while retaining a similar pharmacological effect. 

» Erythropoietin (EPO)

» Human Growth Hormone (hGH)

» Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1)

» Mechano Growth Factors (MGF)

MGF is derived from IGF-1 but its make-up differs from the systemic IGF-1 produced in the liver. MGF promotes muscle tissue repair.

Side effects

Yet to be determined, however may be very similar to those of IGF-1.

» Gonadotrophins

Human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG)

hCG is a hormone normally produced in the placenta during pregnancy and can promote an increase in the production of natural male and female steroids.

In males, it stimulates the testes to produce testosterone rapidly. hCG may be illegally used by those taking anabolic steroids to attempt to counteract the effects of testicular damage or as a masking agent.

Side effects

Since hCG is used to stimulate testosterone production, side effects are similar to those of anabolic steroids, although the risk of gynaecomastia may be increased.  

Leutinising Hormone (LH)

Pituitary gonadotrophins are secreted from the pituitary gland and include hormones such as Leutinising Hormone (LH) which stimulates the testes and ovary. In females, LH stimulates ovulation; in males it is similar to hCG and can stimulate the production of testosterone.

Synthetic gonadotrophins ( e.g. tamoxifen, cyclofenil and clomiphene) have the ability to regulate gonadotrophin production or use.

Side effects

Side effects of pituitary and synthetic gonadotrophins are unknown. Side effects are generally particular to the hormone in use.

Special note on gonadotrophins

LH and hCG are only prohibited in males under the World Anti-Doping Code 2007 Prohibited List (effective 01/01/07).

» Insulin

» Corticotrophin (ACTH)

Corticotrophin is a hormone which increases levels of endogenous corticosteroids (cortisone) in the blood. Corticotrophin has an anti-inflammatory effect, but may also used to obtain the mood elevating effects of corticosteroids.

Side effects

Short-term use of ACTH may cause stomach irritation and ulcers, and psychological effects such as irritability. Prolonged use may induce side effects including softening of connective tissue and weakening of an injured area in muscles, bones, tendons or ligaments, osteoporosis and cataracts.

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This page last updated Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Copyright © 2008, Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA)