Study of exposure to substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency in healthy volunteers (ESPAMA_4). Proof of concept
This study is an early-stage clinical trial looking at substances that are currently banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Anti-doping laboratories need accurate scientific data to spot when athletes break the rules by using prohibited performance-enhancing substances. To help improve testing methods, researchers are giving controlled amounts of specific substances to healthy male volunteers aged 18 and older. Doctors then monitor how the body breaks down and clears these substances, usually by collecting blood or urine samples over time. Taking part helps scientists develop better, fairer detection tests for sports across the world. Because this is an early-phase trial, participants will be closely watched by medical staff throughout the study. Joining is completely voluntary, and volunteers are free to leave the trial at any point without giving a reason.
At a glance
What is this study about?
In competitive sports, fairness and safety are essential. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) keeps a strict list of banned substances and methods to stop athletes from gaining an unfair advantage and putting their health at risk. To catch rule-breakers, testing labs need very sensitive and reliable tools. However, scientists can only build better tests if they know exactly how a substance moves through the human body, how long it stays there, and what trace chemicals it leaves behind.
This trial is a proof-of-concept pharmacology study. It aims to gather that vital scientific evidence by studying what happens when healthy volunteers receive carefully measured amounts of prohibited substances in a secure, controlled setting. By collecting and analysing samples such as urine and blood, researchers can see how quickly the body processes the substance and how long it remains detectable.
Studies like this are crucial for the integrity of sport worldwide. They ensure that anti-doping labs can accurately tell the difference between true rule-breaking and accidental exposure. They also help stop athletes from using newly created substances to slip under the radar. The findings will help protect clean athletes and maintain trust in sporting events.
Key takeaways
- The study tests substances banned in sports to help create better anti-doping tests.
- It is open to healthy male volunteers aged 18 and over.
- Participants will receive a controlled dose of a substance and provide regular blood and urine samples.
- There is no direct medical benefit, but volunteers help support fair competition in sport.
- Medical staff will supervise all participants, and you can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to healthy adult men who are 18 years of age or older. Because this is an early-phase pharmacology trial testing specific substances, the researchers need volunteers who do not have serious underlying health conditions that could interfere with the results or increase the risk of side effects.
To take part, volunteers will likely need to undergo basic health checks to confirm they are in good general health. Men who have significant medical problems, such as heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or those who take regular prescription medications, may not be able to join.
If you are an active competitive athlete who is subject to official anti-doping testing, taking part would not be suitable, as you would test positive for banned substances during and after the trial.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am a male aged 18 or older.
- I consider myself to be in good general health.
- I do not compete in sports where I am subject to anti-doping tests.
- I am willing to attend clinic visits and provide blood and urine samples.
- I am not taking regular prescription medicines that might interfere with the study.
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study involves attending a specialist research clinic where doctors and nurses closely monitor your health. Before anything begins, the research team will explain the study in full, and you will have a health screening that may include a physical examination, heart tracings (ECG), and standard blood and urine tests. If you are suitable and agree to join, you will receive a strictly controlled dose of a study substance under medical supervision. You will then need to provide regular samples, such as blood and urine, over a set timetable so scientists can measure how your body breaks down the substance. You may need to stay at the clinic for part of the study or return for scheduled follow-up visits. The study team will tell you the exact schedule and total duration before you agree to take part.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
Will taking part improve my health or fitness?
No. This study is designed to gather scientific information about how certain substances behave in the body, not to treat an illness or improve your personal fitness.
Is it safe to take a banned substance in a trial?
The trial is run under strict clinical regulations. Doses are carefully measured, and you will be closely monitored by medical staff to keep you as safe as possible.
Can competitive athletes take part?
Generally no. Because you will be exposed to substances on the WADA banned list, you would fail sports drug tests during the study and possibly for some time afterwards.
Will I be paid for taking part?
Early-phase trials with healthy volunteers often provide compensation for your time and travel expenses. The study team will provide full details about this before you sign up.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes. You are free to withdraw your consent and leave the study at any point, for any reason, without any penalty.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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