08/28/2026
Did you know that peptide use is one of the most significant areas of anti-doping risk within endurance sport? With the growing popularity of peptides, IV therapies, and hormone optimization, I thought I'd throw together a helpful PSA for my fellow athletes.
Unlike traditional performance enhancing substances, a lot of the products mentioned above are sneaky because they're marketed as "natural," "bioidentical," or "regenerative". They are sometimes even prescribed by a doctor. However, even if a substance is "safe" it may not actually be allowed in competition.
If you're considering a new supplement, treatment or therapy and wondering whether it's competition-safe. Here's a few steps to run through:
🔹 Check the rules of the governing body (ex. USAT, IRONMAN, Hyrox, etc) and the WADA Prohibited List. https://www.wada-ama.org/en
🔹 Evaluate the manufacturer and product to make sure they are credible and transparent. Make sure the ingredient label is complete and understandable. Stay away from proprietary blends where ingredients are not listed.
🔹 Make sure the product is third-party tested (certification through NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Sport is best)
🔹 Consider talking to a registered dietitian if you have concerns - or to see if there is a dietary change you can make that will provide the same benefits that the supplement is promising.
🔹 Even certified products can't guarantee zero risk
🔹 Document your decision process and steps. If you ever do get tested and there is an issue you will want to be able to show that you did due diligence.
🔹 Anti-doping rules can apply all year. Most prohibited peptides (like TB-500, GHRP-2/6, MK-677, ipamorelin) and certain IV therapies are banned year-round.
I'm always happy to help you find the right resource to check also.
WADA’s primary role is to develop, harmonize and coordinate anti-doping rules and policies across all sports and countries. Our key activities include scientific and social science research; education; intelligence & investigations; development of anti-doping capacity; and monitoring of compliance...
