From the Research
Weight lifters commonly use several performance-enhancing drugs during cutting phases, but the most recent and highest quality study suggests that only creatine can safely provide a performance-enhancing benefit with minimal adverse effects. According to the study published in 2024 1, creatine use during resistance training can increase total and lean body mass, strength, and performance in high-intensity, short-duration, repetitive tasks. The study found that creatine is associated with minimal adverse effects, making it a safer choice compared to other performance-enhancing drugs.
Some of the other substances used by weight lifters during cutting phases include:
- Anabolic steroids like Winstrol (stanozolol), Anavar (oxandrolone), and Masteron (drostanolone propionate)
- Clenbuterol, a beta-2 agonist
- Thyroid hormones like T3 (Cytomel)
- Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
- Diuretics like Lasix or Aldactone
However, these substances carry significant health risks, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects, and most are banned in competitive sports. The 2024 study 1 found that anabolic steroids, growth hormone, and recombinant human erythropoietin are associated with severe adverse events and do not support a performance benefit, despite showing the ability to change bodily composition, strength, and/or physiologic measures.
It's worth noting that the use of performance-enhancing drugs is a complex issue, and athletes should be aware of the potential risks and benefits associated with these substances. As stated in the 2014 study 2, physicians and athletes need to understand the risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs and take steps to prevent their use. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly condemns the use of performance-enhancing substances, as stated in the 2005 study 3.
In terms of specific dosing and protocols, the example answer provides some guidance, but it's essential to prioritize the most recent and highest quality study, which is the 2024 study 1. This study provides an evidence-based review of the effects of commonly used performance-enhancing drugs on performance and health, and it's essential to consider this information when making decisions about the use of these substances.