Overview of peptides prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in competitive sport, and the rationale behind their classification.
WADA Prohibited List: Peptides
The World Anti-Doping Agency maintains a Prohibited List that is updated annually. Multiple peptide classes are prohibited both in-competition and out-of-competition:
S0: Non-Approved Substances
Any substance not currently approved by any governmental regulatory health authority for human therapeutic use is prohibited at all times. This captures most research peptides including BPC-157, TB-500, and Epithalon.
S2: Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, and Mimetics
- Growth Hormone (GH) and GH fragments (e.g., AOD-9604, HGH Fragment 176-191)
- Growth Hormone Releasing Hormones (GHRH) and analogs (e.g., CJC-1295, Sermorelin)
- Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHS) (e.g., Ipamorelin, GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Hexarelin, MK-677)
- IGF-1 and analogs (e.g., IGF-1 LR3, MGF)
Implications for Athletes
Athletes subject to WADA testing should be aware that detection windows for peptides have improved significantly with advances in mass spectrometry. Even peptides with short half-lives may be detectable for days to weeks after administration.
Research Disclaimer
This article is compiled from peer-reviewed research and publicly available scientific literature. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.