57458637 Dan Duchaine Body Opus

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D U C ~ I A I N E

CHAPTER

THE USUAL WARNINGS: ON DOCTORS, DRUGS AND THE FDA

CAN

:\SSlJ\-IE that most readers of this bopk are healthy, phys

ically acrive an hope) not overweight? Good! However. I must warn you about the temporary changes to your metabo lism that ,h BODYOPUS DiCl will cause. Yl'ur blood pr essur e may decrease. Your blood s ugar level will radically plummet over 5 days. Your body v,rill produce fat byprodu<:ts tha r slighlly acidify th bloml. If yon aren't careful, some minerals, notably potassium, calcium and magnesium, will be excreted rapidly. In hal climates, you might dehydrate easily. Alrhough these negative effects are possible, I am coo "inced thaI the net health gains 0utweigh the risks. \.1ost of the "diny lricks" and shonculs I will discuss art' considered incorrect by dogmatic MDs, the AM and the FDA. Quick, easy fal loss is considered unnecessary by rhe American Medical Club. To the arhletically inclined and the life extensionisLs. the FDA is an adversary To improve yo ur meraholisrn with prescrip tion drugs, unapproved foreign drug.,;; or grealer-than-rrcognized amount" or nutrients, is an arouow; task. The FDA considers Ihis

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practice frivolous, unnecessary an possibly dangerous. All of the drugs you'll encomHer in chis book have been

even though they don't cause dependence and arec', used recrt' ationally.

used by athletes and life c](tensionist<;, along with millions of mdi1'lary people h \ i n g outside the Uniteu Stales. All or these slibstances ;.lrc effective, non- toxi an henign in eHeer an sIde

Recteational drugs are considered to be d a n g ~ r o u s and withont mcdical purpose. fOL Lilt:: mu"L pan, these d r u g ~ are not manufactured by legitimate drug companies, no can they be prescribed by doctors. However, there ate always cxceplior.s. For example, COcaine is still used in the g>llIzt> p:1.cking after rhinoplasty. Marijuana is used oceasionally in chemmherapy an with glaucoma patients.

effect.

::-.Jane or drugs or nl1Tnt>nIS

1"1\

m e n t i o n are illegal to use,

possess or import. Although the FDA tries to interfere with their importaUon, distribution an transportation, they cannot "ban" drugs. Only Congress an th DEA haH, the dULhori.\v to uu this. Some drugs arc illegal in certain states, bu this varies, Perhaps th word. "drug" makes you antsy. In BODYOPCS, "drug" is uot a fOUT-letter word. The legal an sciemific defini (erm " t l r u ~ " i.-; ( l H ~ (chemical or nutrient) substance tion or that infiuences the metabolism in a dis.cernible way. [n th United StaleS, there are three broad categories of drugs, Over_rhe_counter (OTC) drugs can be purchased a n y ~ where, from drug stores 10 gas stations. OTC drugs are milu wedieations [or minor ailments. Prescription drugs are more potenl medicat10ns that require a doctor's authorization. They are dispensed from phar macies, dooors' offices, hospio;als an dinit:s. Prescription drugs have traveled througr. the labyrilltlline FDA testing process. Once
doctor prescribes it for.

Some prescription drugs Lhal have dependency potential re(reationa: purpo ses are nnde.r [he control of th DEA. Most of lhese drugs are labeled " n a r c o l i e s . ~ Sometimes dnlgs are reclas silied as narcotics because of political pressure. Fo example. anabolic sterojus were fairly ordinary prescription dtug. .. until they were Scheduled in 1990. Steroids are called "n
Of course, the rest of the world doesn't have :0 follow the

rules. You'll fiml a plethora 01 effective and "afe drugs OTC an prescription) thai are similar, if not identical, to (both the FDA-approved ones in this country, ~ 1 a n y of t h e ~ ( ' foreign drugs
import foreign

non-FDA.

approved urugs fat personal use, as long as Lhe dtugs are no DcA-Scheduled. Of course, the FDA tries to make it difficnlt. There are rules an loopholes. an Cl1stoms Alcrt Bulletins an furnished to private ciri:ens. Th mastet list 01 Customs Alert Bulletins. wh\ch is s h a ~ d between the FDA an (he Cus toms Sl'rvicf", is constantly being updated, Howeya, yo no

fmd gonu bOOKS on importing urugs fat personal use in the health section of most bookstores. Many longeVity alld exercise magazines contain advertisements fot books that list f o t e i g ~ mail-order wmpanies. Even FDA-approved prescription drug.'i at cheaper when purchased outside the fDA-Ar-.L4. Pharma ceutical Buying Club. ]11

th

F D A ' ~

\-iew, th

innocuous health lood store sellin,?;

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herbs, vit3mins, minerals and amino acids is a dangerous unreg ulated pharmacy. Remember, any substance that changes the body is a drug. The FDA views herbs an large amounts of nutrients as toxic, hannful an candIdates for future removal. There arc two broad L,negories of substances in heallh food stores. Vitamins, mlnerals, amiuo acids, proleins, carbo hydrates and [ats are nutrients, the minor and major foods needed for life. In addilion, the FDA maintains (he GRAS list (things that are Generally Recognized As Safe), which contains a vast array (and this list is puhlished) of chemicals. This list includes herbs an food additives (stabilizers, foaming agems, ful"vorings), the v ariou s brie- a-brae necessary to manufacture modern processed foods. Often barh research an folklore will sugges the use of GRAS ingredients in a purified form or large doses to cause a drug-like action. The second c a l q ~ o r y consistS of uon-GRAS drug-like chemicals. ~ o n - G R A S suhs\anc6 are no supposed to be sold 10 the public, bUl they are. Confnsed? You should be. The rules don't have to be logical In fact. man y of them go against valid medieal research and plain common sense. fo example, chromium is a lrace mineral deemed essential to nonnal health (and nrst place at {he car show). Various chehues of chromium are sold in health food stores - legally, of course. Large doses act like insulin, making chromium beneficial to diabetics and athletes alike. Vanadium, in a more soluhle form called vanadyl suUaLe, is even more efTective_ Vanadyl sulfate might be necessary for human life; scieutists an the FDA aren't too sure. Vauadyl sul fate is not on Ihe GRAS list and. techni.cal\.y; according to FDA rules, shouldn't he ingested at all. However, many health food stores and mail-order compame<; do setl vanady\ sulfate in vari

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ous forms. Is this a violation of fDA pc)licy? Yes. Has the FD curtailed its sale by enforcing the drug labeling an transporta tion la""-'S? :--.Jo. Cal1 they banish vanadyl from health food stores? Yes. \Vill they? No one knows. but I wouldn't be snrprised. ThIS example illustrates how an il1nocuous an popular item can become enmeshed in (he bewildering maze of approved an non-approved dmgs, l1uLrient an nOI1-l1utrient GR.AS items. The simplest nutrients can tangle up with laws (civil an criminal). rules. regulaLlons and simple naticmal

agency grudge matches. All of rhe drugs an subs Lances mentioned in BODYOPUS are remarkably (even st:lnlingly) efTeel.ive, safe, health-prom ot ing and legal to bu an use. Al1abolic steroids are, in most instances, illegal to possess an buy, bu they will occasionally be discussed simply because they have historically been the most dramatiC ami-catabolic drugs. Now. lets discuss docrors: MDs and DOs. I've alway'S ha a problem v.'ith doctors, but it would be stupid for me to say that doctors are adversaries like the fDA. Physicians are essen tial 10 mainwin al1d restore proper health - at least the pre vailil1g normal, status quo types of health thaL most physicians buy into with membership in the American Medical Club Doclors are necc>;sary to cure or alleviate moderate 10 severe ailments, al1d (J would hope) to prevcnt future health prohlems. Unfortunately, because of high medical C 0 5 [ S or lack of insurance (or both) most people uon'l is lheir doctor when I guessed that you spent more they appear and feel ~ h e a l t h y : " time au money on things like hair, skin and naib than on med ical tare. would I he right? ....

lndi iduals who are physically fit and nUlritiol1ally selec tive are surprisingly cavalier IOwards their medical upkeep. ....

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They see a doctor w ~ e l 1 Slllncthing i" (usually very) ....,ong. Reg uhn exacise, good nutrition, ..-oirl:mcp of lobacco an alcohol, blah, blah, blah. We know the drill. All of these good habits will help you to a'-'aid many health problems an feci b e l l a th;m mJny sedentary people do However .. s n a r l physician would ten yo

feeling of hlness

an accurate indication of good health. Athlcles wi1l some

times [oohsh1,y ignore woss signs of a bu se th minor illJuries. tiredness as j U ~ ~ part

c h , p ai ns , tralning. Often.

[hey ( N S S over [rom admirable discipline plain s l U h b o r n n c ~ Re,gu]ar vi"ilS \0 d o n o r nr just as important for athleres. You don't gc'_ an waivers just hecausc yo appear to be healthier lhan more sedentary people in (rpng to pursue sUiJra-heahh, bodybuddt:r:i an

liff'

extensicnisLs ~ i l l ha .. e problems with docwrs. Dealing with a general practitioner can be supremely lrustratmg experience. There's on because th

basic re("'lIrring problem. confrontation arises patient asks the d o n o r for help in lmpr(/\!;ng his

metabolism, perhaps

fortifying replacing hormones. mcgauosing on unusual nurriems. 1n the physi adding drugs cian's mind, the pursuit of thiS goal IS unnecessary, uuwise, (potenlially:' unheahhy and, most importantly, immoral as American medicine defilles ""haL docLors should be domg with patients,

help matters that Ihe concepts of s u p r a ~ h e a l t h , athletic perfonnance and longeviry are no Laught ll ally med ical srhoo1 that am aware of. You won't find these specialists listed in the Yellow Pages. Spans medicine specialists devote It

most

dODT\'t

their

t i m ~

to

trCil[i.ng injuries. the pbone hook, you'd think that

With so many uocrors

the

IllW of

averab':es woulu enable yo

tu

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find u sympathetic,

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enlightened physicIan willing to work with you to achieve th Platonic ideal of supra-he31rh. Be\\iare: "sympa heric " doesn't necessarily mean qualifted. It's disappointing that most of the dOctors that have helped me with my bodybUilding ende:nmrs over the last twenty years have been - w e l l - benign quacks. Yes, Ihey were 'Willing lO help. They wrote appropnutc pre scripIicHlS and were concerned With my progress - bu they didn't understand what tbey were doing and why. Loo king back to some: of those consultations think, "I can't belie..-e that a uoctor conld have said that!

was

SO

gullible to have believed

him."

I'm still cautiously optimistic aboul the p05sibilil)' of find ing an American MD wh 1S supra-health expert. I:'s an eco doCIOr'; olTice far nOllll( prohlml. Yon'll probahly nerd In visit away from home, an "shopping" for docLors isn't free. Office corne back. Gee used v i ~ i t ~ l l . . ' ~ t mOlley eve!1 if yuu l I c w ~ r phIl to wasting lOL of time en isolated visils unlil yon find an acceptahle pbysician. Networking ca help. bu don't limit your self to just like-minded friends. In many instancrs, nutritionists an chiropractors are the most qualified proresslonals. Try to find a compromise of two, or eyell three, lIledlcal p r u f e s ~ i ( ) n a b working together. Many MDs no recommend nutritionisL5, an some states allow chiropractors to order blood tesLs. I' ashamed to say Iha[ I've ha to use tWo MDs wh wrrr (rusl my local physician fur regular not working together. health maintenance, She's been marvelous at it. Dnl ~ ! L e r l t : : .. er tried discussing bodybuilding or longeviLY drugs with her, like I became Sat.an. So just use another dOelor, one of the benign quack types, \0 write ou the unusual American pre scrip[iDns. national lisl of supra-health professionals is sorely

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needed, bu it won't happen until we an get together - bouy builders, life extensionisL<; and 'smart drug" people. BODYOPCS involves drugs, doctors and the FDA. I've always aspired to optimize bodies beyond what nm be accom plished v.ith prudent eating an caUtious, moderate exercise, beyond the idea of "excellent h e a l t h ~ for hoth the general pop ulation an

the American medical profession.

What would be the highest stan&ard? 1won't accept th

old

excuse of "good genes." An enhanced metabolism altai.ned through manipulation with nutrients, other suhsta nces (GRA or not) and prescription drugs (approved or not! is my ambition talent. [ hope that we're in agreement on the ideal - superior health, longevity, vigor an aesthetics. Is lhat too much to ask [or? I hope not. Other diet an exerrise progr ams \\-ilh the best

an

of intentions can ultimately damage the body. All melabolic aids

_vitamins, minerals, amino acids, chemicals, recognized phar

maceuticals _ are, to put it blnntly, drugging the body. As dis tasteful as the label o[ "drug" is to Americans. they do improve ou lives. We can't cheat death, but the quality of an aging body be influenced. In this book, you'll encounler idcas that can change your body into something you thought wasn't possible, even when you've tried almost everything else. In this uncharted territory, the legal, moral an social status of many of the methods and substances recommended is constantly in flux. Fo example, at this particular moment lhe FDA is expending tremendous effon to control the sale of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Man of the innocuous bU 'viral heallh food items of lOday could be the prescription drugs l) tomorrow. (Hands up, amino junkies!) Reauiug this information is one thing, bu pUlting it into

can

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practice is someth ing else. Rememher, a smart physician is no some traitor to the cause. Before you begin a diet an exercise program, even you've been exercising regularly an feel fine, book an office visit. The uoctor may roll his eyes when you relate your mission, bu don't make this metabolic adventure a secret from him. The most prudent thing to do \hlUld be [Q pur chase: an additional copy of this hook for your physiuan, We might convert him None of the foreign drugs suggesteu are illegal III pllssess However, some individuals become so frustrated with US Cus roms' confiscations of their foreign mail-order drugs that they act deceptive an sneaky The recommendations in DODYOPlJS are not illegal, bu fraudulent behavior and smuggling Qre, Find the applicable regulations an follow lhem. FDA-granled priv ileges are no ideal, bu the alternative is a new policy of,1O priv ileges. The FDA can change its rulings overnight. Take it from someone wh knows: I uon't reco mmend the criminal flip side

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My final advice with clenbuterol? Try it infrequently

just

don't get married to it.

CHAPTER

ANTI-ESTROGENS

ANTI-ESTROGEN US is amazingly common in bodybuilders, no \ only in America but aroun d the world. Outside of this subcul ture, it is virtually unknown. Over 14 years ago, I postulated that one anti-estrogen, Nolvadex, might help prevent breast cancer. I was also alarmed (back in 1982) by the amount of estrogenic substances in common foods, like wheat germ oil. Now mainstream science has caught up to me; there are clini cal trials using Nolvadex in women at a high risk for breast can cer. A recent study finally conceded that estrogenic compounds common foods affect metabolism adversely in both men an [)women. Back in 1980, all of the doctors thought I was com i, pletely nuts to worry about estrogen in seemingly healthy male and female bodybuilders. I believe tha t I was the first pers on to use anti-estrogens on bodybuilders, first with women and later with men. Back in 1981, I noticed that female bodybuilders were no successful at stripping away lower body fat. NoW; we have a pretty good idea why women have trouble losing lower body fat, which you learned about in the last few chapters. Back then, I was still groping for an answer. I saw that it was women who had the

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lower fat prob lem, no men. I reasoned that it mu st be estrogen that caused the problem. Even today, many physicians hold this assumption. I was able to persuade my female training partner to try Nolvadex, bu I had a damned hard time trying to convince a physician to write a prescription for it. Back then, Nolvadex was only used on late-stage breast cancer tumors. The MDs had no idea what I was gibbering about. I persevered, and finally got a prescription through the shabbiest of methods, involving a gonzo male bodybuilder, a lonely doctor, and the ruse: "Doc! I gotta have cancer either in my testicles or my prostate and you gotta check it ou ... " Need elaborate? Nolvadex was a good newslbad news kind of thing. When taking 40 mg o f Nolvadex per day, we saw discernible overall fat loss, tightening of the physique and a small reduction in lower body fat. The bad news: i t did no make a dramatic difference in the lower body was, in my mind, a disappointment. Over the next few years women trie d larger dosages (up to 60 mg a day) along with other anti-estrogens like Proviron. Although the anti-estrogens did make a difference in overall fat loss, the lower body fat problem did no get solved. Male bodybuilders started using Nolvadex and Proviron to combat the aromatization (estrogen conversion) of high dosages of anabolic steroids. Higher estrogen in males was claimed to promote gynecomastia, the creation of small benign tumors in the breast area, which is partially true. Estrogen was also being blamed for increased water retention and fat accumulation, which is also partially true. Men blamed estrogen completely because male bodybuilders are unusually sensitive about having any female hormones at all. After 12 years, Nolvadex is still being used by both male

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and female bodybuilders. must be working; bodybuil ders will qUickly abandon a drug if there is no bang for the buck. I've dieted with and without Nolvadex, and I lost fat faster with Nolvadex. Anti-estrogens are currently a matter of economics. You have encountered many more potent dieting drugs in this book. Clenbuterol and yohimbe are more cost-effective, too. However, anti-estrogens can be of value in some capacity: Let's discuss the popular ones in use in bodybuilding. NOLVADEX (TAMOXIFEN CITRATE)

Both women and men use 20 to 40 mg per day while diet ing. While Nolvadex is a prescription drug in America, it is over . the-counter in Mexico. Nolvadex works in hoth sexes, even if It you aren't using anabolic steroids. It has a perceptible bu no !' dramatic effect on fat loss. Some women have reported gains in strength and muscle preservation. Nolvadex works by binding \' the estrogen receptor so that the estrogen in the blood has no , place to roost. To a layperson, Nolvadex's effects are subtle, bu many dieters swear by it; has a cultish quality a bout it. High dosages ':c'{over 40 mg) haven 't proven to work visibly better. Most femal jbodybuilders use it infrequently, so it doesn't cause any notice t'able bone density loss. But really, how could we tell? Although Nolvadex has been almost a dieting tradition in ~I !': odybuilding, I hope that Nolvadex use in women will decline 'now that yohimbe is recognized as a better way to redu ce lower body fat. Women at very low body fat levels (un der 10 percent) Usually have a problem with maintaining facial fat, the old very low body fat levels, women produce very little estrogen anyway Women who have a problem with excessive gauntness

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in the face would look better without Nolvadex. Women wh have high body fat levels will find Nolvadex to be worthwhile. I know it "works," an so do thousands of bodybuilders. But don't try to explain it to your doctor unless you enjoy the MD dangerous-ineffective-crazy song an dance. I've also found Nolvadex to be useful in women with sys temic lupus. Is there any research on this? No, bu my personal experience shows it to be true. Middle-aged me who have higher than normal estrogen from too much body fat or too lit tle testosterone have found Nolvadex to be a good adjunct to Proscar (the prostate drug). Nolvadex may also help counteract the recent rise in environmental estrogens. Perhaps in another 12 years or so, mainstream doctors will get t he message. That Nolvadex does have a noticeable effect on dieting is a given in the bodybuilding world. Beyond the obvious effect, there's a lot of mystery about this drug. Bodybuilders hav been using Nolvadex for 12 years, bu nobody has adequately explained why it "works," myself included. Some postulate tha it works by reducing the amount of thyroid-binding albumin associated with high estrogen levels. Nolvadex is also anti-cata bolic, which is most noticeable in women wh are no using steroids. The nagging mystery in my mind is the relationship between estrogen an high amounts of A2 adrenoreceptors in lower bod y fat. It's given that women have more A2 receptors. The question in my mind is: when did this adrenoreceptor ratio start? Is it genetic, set before birth? Or does it start in puberty? Pre-adolescent girls have a fat distribution similar to boys the same age. Women who have Cushing's Syndrome (excess corti sol), have a curious migration of body fat from the lower body to the upper body. To make it more interesting, fat cells have

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almost no estrogen receptors, althou gh they can convert andro gens to estrogens. I don't yet have answers to these questions. All I can say is: I took 10 mg daily of Nolvadex for close to 2 years straight. I was significantly leaner, especially in the lower body. When didn't use Nolvadex, I was fatter. Nolvadex didn't do a Svengali transformation, bu good things happened. TESLAC (TESTOLACTONE)

Nolvadex is an after-the-fact anti-estrogen; it blocks estro gen that is already in the bloodstream at the receptor in the tar get tissue. It is a good choice for women who have naturally high ovarian estrogen production. In men, however, estrogen is usually elevated through aromatization of testosterone, naturally occur ring or from ana bolic steroids. Most of this conversion occurs in the muscle cells, bu fat cells convert more androgens as me age. There are some excellent reasons to control androgen aromatization. Obviously, an androgen (natural or synthetic) is no longer an anabolic substance once converted to estrogen. In addition, low estrogen will guard against fat accumulation. Men's breast tissue, like women's, has numerous estrogen receptors. The most benign symptom of men with high estrogen . (other than making Floyd look bewitching) is a slight swelling of the breast tissue. As the symptoms become more extreme, hard lumps develop which must be removed with surgery. Whenever men's estrogen levels are higher than normal, the number of androgen receptors in the prostate increases. iii This sensitizes it to minute amou nts of dihydrotestosterone, and ii' causes enlargement. Although Nolvadex is an effective estroge . , antagonist an can be used in these circumstances, it doesn't

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the source. In theory, a drug that inhibits the conversion of androgens to estrogen would be a good idea. Translating the idea to reality has been a frustrating process. Teslac, for example, would seem to be a perfect aromatase inhibitor. blocks both the conversion of testosterone to estra diol and the other androgens (notably androstenedione) to the less potent estrone. Teslac has been available since the 1950s an has FDA approval for tumor reduction in breast cancer As a bonu s in men, Teslac raises testosterone. With all of the advan tages, you'd think that it would be used as often as Nolvadex. In fact, Teslac is rarely used. Why? The first problem is cost. The recommended dosage, 5 tablets per day, costs $25! In addition, Teslac is no available in Mexico. Although various cheap European generics are listed in the Merck Index, none have actually been produced. I had been writing this book a few years ago, I would have been concerned about Teslac's high cost and lack of avail ability. However, with today's new fat loss alternatives, Teslac is no big deal. The effect of excess estrogen has been magnified ou of proportion . RedUcing estrogen does have a discernible effect, bu after considering all of the other drugs available, anti-estro gens are pretty low on my list of Diet All-Stars.

BODYOPUS

work at

PROVIRON (MESTERONE)

Proviron is another aromatase-inhibitor. This non-FDA approved androgen is much cheaper than Teslac. Proviron binds at the androgen receptors, with a higher affinity than either testosterone or dihydrotestosterone. It has no anabolic proper ties. Is this a problem? For the steroid-using male athlete, no. However, aside from this small group, Proviron has problems. 182

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Proviron is no recommended for women because it has androgeni c side effects. Fo the athlete without anabolic steroid supplementation, Proviron will cause a drop in testosterone because it blocks natural testosterone at the receptor level. And, of course it is a felony to possess and use Proviron without valid foreign prescription. Proviron has recently fallen ou of favor, no so much because it doesn't work, bu because it does no achieve the effects as elegantly as Teslac does. CYTADREN (AMINOGLUTETHIMIDE)

Cytadren also causes aromatase inhibition, a nd has been successfully used in post-menopausal women an breast cancer patients. It is still the wild child drug, enticing yet uncontrol lable; you need too high a dosage to achieve the effect. CONCLUSION

The effectiveness of these anti-estrogens has no changed over the years, only ou percepti on of it. Back in the mid-1970s, anabolic steroids were the mainstay of dieting, t hen thyrOid hor mone an mild diuretics at contest time. Nolvadex was introduced to bodybuilders in 1981. seemed glamorous and mysterious because was new an vis ibly effective. It developed a cult-like follOWing. Many female athletes wh would no consider using anabolic steroids or thy roid hormone, embraced Nolvadex with no ethical qualms. Per haps they embraced it no for its phYSical effects, bu because it . fulfilled an emotional-sexual agenda. It's not that they wante to be more like men (as anabolic steroids would do), bu to con trol a previously uncontrollable estrogenic destiny. I know female athletes who are dependent on Nolvadex - no because of its physical effects, bu because they dread the estrogenic

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rebound when they stop taking it. After stopping Nolvadex, a woman can expect fat accumulation, w ater retention, emotional depression an physical weakness - which are a supreme tes for some women's self-esteem. In the grand hierarchy of diet drugs, anti-estrogens are now considered below average. Certainly, you will get better effects with c1enbuterol, yohimbe, ephedrine and phenfor min. After al of these, choose Nolvadex or Teslac. Although anti-estrogens can be helpf ul for a variety of other maladies, they are an unnec

CHAPTER 28

APPETITE SUPPRESSANTS

essary luxury for dieters. are at the ir physical zenith. After viewing such perfectly lean, tanned, shaven and groomed bodies, an "out sider" assumes that such divine-looking specimens must have tremendous discipline and resolve. You might think that the bodybuilders who have made it to contest-ready shape were suc cessful because of will power an fortitude in the face of hunger, suffering an anxiety. However, many people who call them selves bodybuilders don't always "make it" to single-digit lean ness, for the same reasons that normal people fail at dieting  thyroid " ~ they succumb to hunger and anxiety. Other problems !)hormone, adrenoreceptor ratios, and so forth are never actu ~ a l l y encountered. CONTEST BODYBUILDERS

The picture of the rigidly disciplined, stoic bodybuilder, } semi-starving his body into submission is appealing to many, bu there's a dirty little secret among a good number of com petitors who did "m ake it." A number are complete fuck-ups! If they ha to get by on willpower, they'd be at the Mr. Couch Potato contest instead of the Mr. Olympia. Whenever I have a choic in the matter, I'd rather coach an athlete who doesn't need to use appetite suppressants. However, 84

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I've had experience with a number of them from mild to wild, either personally or through my athletes. Most of these drugs are not dangerous or life-threatening, although, like most diet pills, they can cause dependency. But you already knew that. Anorectics are no a free ride; they will eventually exact a price for their effects. For that matter, ephedrine, ampheta mine's better-behaved cousin, causes the same dependence prob lems on a small scale. Two of the thermogenic agents, ephedrine and c1enbuterol, blunt hunger quite well because they slow gastric emptying. Because the food sits in the stomach longer, the body is fooled into t hinking you are eating enough. This "side effect" has been a pleasant surprise to many people. All of the oth er really effective anorectics are DEA-sched uled prescr iption drugs. Prescriptions for DEA-scheduled drugs cannot be refilled withou t a doctor's authorization, whic h shows how people's opinion of diet pills has changed over the years. During the 1970s, diet pills, even Schedule II amphetamines, were freely given by regular doctors to non-obese dieters. Dur ing World War II, ampheta mines were op enly given to military personnel, with no prescriptions or doctors around. The new Puritan morality is being applied to anorectic drugs for dieting. It's hard to convince a doctor to write a pre scription for diet pills unless you are morbidly obese. There may have been a time when too many people were dependent on diet pills. However, I think that the recent over reaction to anorectics is somewhat extreme. There are a number of bodybuilders who need anorectics; wi thout them they would never get into contest shape. These athletes are no absolute fuck-ups. They train hard an sacrifice much of the personal and financial lives to pursue their seemingly frivolous endeav-

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185

ors. On contest day they are transcendent, a shining zenith of elusive physical god-like perfection. The audience, the photog raphers, the judges and the sports historians don't care how such perfection was arrived at. Ironically, the most accessible anorectics, cocaine an methamphetamines, are now street drugs simply because real ,; doctor-prescribed anorectics are no longer easy to find. I wish it ' w e r e different, and as a personal prejudice I've avoided even learning abou t the stre et anorectics. However, I do have experi ence with the FDA-approved (albeit Scheduled) anorectics. To avoid any mention of them would be to avoid my personal responsibility to make such knowledge available, even though such things are now in disfavor. I'll tell you flat ou that I am no an Anorectic Guru. I'm sure that many obesity specialists could teach me a lot. How , ever, I do know more than the usual pedestrian diet expert, an how many doct ors specialize in the use of anorectics for healthy athletes? I"

It is against Federal law to import anorectics unless you leave the country, get the drugs w ith a foreign prescr iption, an hand carry them back. Diet pills are Scheduled because they have the potential for abuse and dependence. I will limit this ~ , d i s c u s s i o n to the least controlled category, Schedule IV drugs. lFor reference, anabolic steroids are Schedule III because they {supposedly have more potential for dependency. Go figure. With all of these dire warnings out of the way, I'd like to start this discussion with the most valuable anorectic of all. For the life of me I c annot u nder sta nd why it's Scheduled. Sixty-fiv percent of the adult population is overweight, and a truly ben eficial drug is locked away in the Scheduled category where doc tors tread too lightly.

it

18

ODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

18

they are physically an mentally exhausted. When you stop using these anorectics, you crash, becom ing overwhelmingly tired, lethargi an depressed. You feel like a zombie for at least 2 weeks, and frequently more. These dramatic side effects are not a mystery, bu are cer tainly hard to control. Even the most educated, savvy an ratio nal athlete will overtrain while on these diet drugs. If you are using them with ephedrine an clenbuterol, the hazards of ele vated blood pressure an heart rate are compounded. With all of these caveats, I will briefly highlight the three anorectics most common ly used by bodybUilders

Pondim in (fenfluramine) is available in America in 20 mg tablets, an in 75 mg capsules an a transdermal patch in Europe. Pondimin is unique because it is no a central nervous system stimulant. All of the other appetite suppressants try to mimic the action of amphetamine. Daytime appetite is usually no the problem. By keeping busy an using thermogenic drugs like ephedrine an clen buterol, appetite is reasonably controlled during th day. Because you must time the dosages of thermogenic drugs to wear off by evening (so you can sleep), they can't help you at night. The elegance of Pondi min is that it is a central nervous sys tem depressant. Pondimin will no keep you awake at night  quite the opposite. In addition, research has no shown it to have the dependence hazards of the other anorectics. Most American bodybuilders don't use Pondimin while dieting because they are unfamiliar with its unique properties an American MDs are usually hesitant to prescribe such drug to an obviously non-overweight person. In Europe, the capsules are extremely popular, used at night after taking ther mogenic drugs during the day. I don't have as many nice things to say about the other anorectics. All of th other prescription anorectics are deriva tives of the "gold standard" of the anorectics, amphetamine, which is a popular street drug. Amphetamine is still an FDA approved drug, bu is quite re stricted because it's Schedule II. Al of the lesser anorectics try to generate the same appetite sup pression without the extreme side effects of amphetamine. The problem with these stimul ants is that you are so, well, stimulated euphoric, energetic and without fatigue. People don't use them infrequently as they should, bu constantly, until

DUCHAINE

TENUATE (D1ETHYLPRION)

Tenuate is available in 20 mg tablets that are active for a few hours. The 75 mg Tenuate Dospan tablet is a longer-acting (about 6 hours) version. Tenuate is less offensive than the other anorectics. One doctor friend of mine used to call it "the next step up from caffeine." The advantage, in my mind, is the short duration of the 25 mg tablets. Most people aren't hungry all day long, and Tenuate can be used only during the problem times. Tenuate's main failing is that the anorectic effects attenuate rapidly, in about 2 weeks or less. At this point, most people either double the dosage or add another anorectic. As you can imagine, bot h courses of action can accelerate abuse and depen dence. TH

rt ;'~'.

PHENTERMINES

Fastin an Ionamin are both phentermines. Fastin (phen termine hydrochloride) is a 30 mg capsule that has a duration of 10 to 12 hours. Ionamin (phentermine resin) supposedly lasts longer an has a milder effect.

188

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I mention the phentermines for a number of reasons. Ion amin (regular is 15 mg; "forte" is 30 mg) is the anorectic of choice for European bodybuilders. Fastin, for some reason, is the number one choice for American bodybuilders. As anorec tics go, they both have an acceptable balance of effectiveness and side effects. The phentermines have recently been mentioned in the mainstream press, as noted obesity specialists are now vigor ously (and this is unusual) advocating a long-term therapy of one of the phentermines during the day an Pondimin during the evening hours. Obese patients have ha significant fat loss with this combination when all other traditional methods have failed. The mechanism behind anorectics' action is still some what unexplained. Users of these drugs lose more weight than would be predicted from a simple absence of calories. Some of it is excess heat production caused by adrenergic stimulation. However, there is a further mystery calorie debit that is no accounted for. Some postulate that the missing calories are due to increased glucose uptake in the brain. I don't advocate any anorectics besides Pondimin . How ever, some athletes diet for a living, and hundreds of thousands of dollars can dep end on as little as 5 pounds of extra body fat. The diet battle takes place at the refrigerator and pantry door. As the nutritionist-coach is ou of sight most of the time, anorec tics are necessary tools. Are these winners "fuck-ups"? History and the engraved trophy will never tell.

190

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CHAPTER 29

TRICKS OF THE TRADE

then competition bodybuilders are the master craftsmen. Competition bodybuilders use a bewildering variety of drugs: prescription, over-the-counter and non-FDA approved. Although I have excluded most anabolic steroids, the list of dieting drugs in the next chapter contains 50 different drugs! I have personally tried alm ost every drug on list over the past 12 years. Some of the drugs are only used for bodybui lding competitions, an are of no use to the everyday dieter. Others have become cultural icons, worshipped in the same way that some life extensionists worship their drugs. I've listed them first by the name that most people use, whether it is the American trade name or the generic name. I haven't differentiated between vitamins, minerals, over-the counter, prescription or non-fDA-approved drugs My list con tains the dieting uses for the drug, which may be very different from the original approved use. I've included a few items that don't directly affect fat loss, such as diuretics, because some ath letes (and dancers, actors, models an jockeys) will want to use them for rapid and temporary weight loss. I've also included each drug's legal status, although this may change. Ephedrine IF

DIETING IS AN ART,

190

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may be reclassified from over-the-counter to prescription, or herbs an amino acids may be restricted by the FDA. Fo further information on FDA-approved drugs, particu larly on side effects an contra-indications, check the Physicians' Desk Reference. In addition, you ca find more information on some of the drugs, including important basic research, in the

Index. Finally, I will warn you that many of the drugs have no published research on dieting or weight reduction uses. Of shopping list. I might find some of these course, this is no choices to be effective while dieting, bu I can't tell you what to do. I have included some drugs that you might consider creepy because they have some kind of stigma. Remember, it's better that you learn about them from me than some word-of-mouth thrice removed anecdote. would be nice I could advise you to discuss these choices with your physician. Unfortunately, that's going to be problem. Most doctors are totally unfamiliar with the use of drugs for dieting. At the very least, yo should tell your physi cian which drugs you are using. Be prepared for the usu al spiel about avoiding all frivolous medications. Remember, my per sonal comments are only to be used as illuminating notions, no

CHAPTER 30

Merck

instructions.

THE "TOP 50" DIETING DRUG LIST

FOR EACH DRUG LISTED, I've included 8 lines of information about availability an

use, an

then a paragraph with my per

sonal observations. The first line is the most co mmonly use d name for the drug among athletes. This can be the generic or the trade name, depending on which is easiest to pronoun ce. The generic name is listed next. As I mentioned, sometimes the popular name an the generic name are the same. The third line lists the type of drug, which is no neces sarily the approved use. example, clenbuterol, an asthma medication, is listed as a thermogenic/anti-catabolic agent. The fourth line, "How Supplied," will tell you what sizes are available an in what form. The fifth line, "Used For," is used primarily to separate highly specialized drugs, like diuretics an blood conditioners, from the drugs dieters could use every day. The sixth line contains the legal status of the drug. I use the following acronyms for drugs:

192

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RAAD

is my personal acronym for Recognized Drug.

FDA

if the drug is an FDA-approved medication.

Non-FDA

includes prescription drugs that are no approved by the FD and available in other countries.

Rx

means that you need a prescription from a doctor.

OTC

is short for over-the-counter.

As

I mention that the drug has a Customs Alert status, then American citizens need a prescription to import these drugs legally. Nutrients will either be labeled GRAS (Generally Recog nized As Safe) or left blank. I've also included information about DE scheduling. Ana bolic steroids an appetite suppressants have been assigned to a control number. Steroids are C-III. Appetite suppressants vary from C-IV (Tenuate) to C-II (amphetamines). The sixth line has information about availability, which necessarily subjective. Obviously, all GRAS nutrients have an Excellent (E) rating. Good (G) availability indicates that the dru g is generally availabl on the black market, or that it would no be too difficult to find a doctor to write a prescription. Fair (F) availability indicates that you would need to travel to bring the drug back. A Poor (P) rating means that the drug is virtu-

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193

ally impossible to obtain, even in other countries. Next, I list my opinion of the drug's cost-effectiveness. The lowest rating is one star (*). Four stars (****) is excellent. For the drugs that can cause dependency, such as anorectics or injectable painkillers, I thought it best to simply no rate (NR) them. This Top 50 Diet Drug List is specific to North America. I have done my best to specify availability by region.

94

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ALDACTAZIDE

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplie d: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

BODYOPUS

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195

ALDACTONE

Spironolactone and hydrochloro thiazide Diuretic, oral Tablets: 25 mg/25 mg, 50 mg/50 mg Bodybuilding, compet ition specialty only RAAD, FDA, Rx Fair

This od diuretic combines an aldosterone antagonist (spironolactone) with a traditional thiazide diuretic. It is often found rather than chosen. Competition bodybuilders looking for a mild diuretic usually find this one ins tead of a better one. I don't personally work with this diuretic, bu since the "dried out" look is in vogue in current bodybuilding competitions, diuretic may be better than no diuretic. Some athletes confuse this drug with Aldactone, which is milder because it has no thiazide in it. This mistake has dehy drated many unsuspecting bodybuilders who assumed that the two drugs have the same intensity of action. Spironolactone is the potassium-sparing part, bu because it is combine d with thi azide, the pill is no totally potassium-sparing.

96

BUPRENEX

(TEMGESIC IN MEXICO)

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Spironolactone Diuretic, oral Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg Bodybuilding competition, specialty only RAAD, FDA, Rx Good **

Aldactone, the weakest of the p rescription diuretics, works by antagonizing aldosterone, the hormon e tha t regulates sodium in the body. Because both aldosterone and androgens are steroid hormones, Aldactone is also a slight androgen antagonist. As mild and potassium-sparing diuretic, it is especially popular with female bodybuilders. bodybuilders were satisfied with Aldactone's subtle results, it would be a good choice. However, many bodybuilders want more diuresis and make the mistake of combining it with other, more powerful, diuretics. For mild diuresis, Diamox is better choice although it is harder to find. Overdosing on Aldac tone can result in too much potassium in the blood.

BODYOPUS

CARNITINE

DUCHAINE

197

96

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BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

197

CARNITINE

BUPRENEX

(TEMGESIC IN MEXICO)

Generic name: Type of drug: Ho supplied: Used for:

Buprenorphine hydrochloride Analgesic, oral an injectable Tablets: .2 mg; Ampoules: .3 mg/cc Anti-catabolic bodybuildi ng specialty

,

Same

Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

drug

Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied Used for: Legal stat us:

RAAD, FDA, Rx, C-Y, Mexican Rx

Nutrient, quasi-amino acid derivativ Tablets; capsules; powder (varies) Dieting, fat burning limbo Excellent **

(for ketogenic diets)

Poor

NR

Buprenex is on of those secret drugs that some body builders use an don't discuss. It's considered a non-narcotic analgesic, mimicking the effects of morphine. In addition to its pain-relieving properties, it appears to ac as a mild anti-cata bolic, diuretic an anorectic. Because o f its unusual scheduling (C-V is subject to only state an local restrictions), Buprenex is no as popular as Nubain an Stadol, which are also non-narcotic analgesics. Th Mexican version, Temgesic, requires a doctor's prescription. Because of its long duration, Buprenex is th best of th non

"I;

Carnitine is a natural substance produced in the muscle cells that helps the body utilize fats in the mitochondria. In addition, carnitine is used by the liver to convert fatty acids into ketones. Once present in the bloodstream, ketones will lower cortisol levels an reduce catabolism. Red meat is the best nat ural source for carnitine. However, daily dosages of the con centrate can be as high as 5 g. Carnitine is an ideal supplement for low-calorie, very low-carbohydrate diets, an highly recom mended for BODYOPUS. Carnitine's legal status is in limbo, as availability is Widespread, bu it is no on th GRAS list.

narcotic morphine analogues.

198 CHROMIUM

BODYOPUS

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BODYOPUS

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CLENBUTEROL

(SPIROPENT AN

NOVEGAM IN MEXICO)

199

198

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DUCHAINE

Varies according to acco mpanying onding compound

Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Nutrient (essential mineral)

I.

Tablets; capsules (varies) Insulin agonist, repartition agent GRAS limbo in some forms Excellent ****

Chromium is an essential trace mineral that works syner

gistically with insulin. Althoug h foods such as brewer's yeast or cinnamon are good source of chromium, most athletes choose to supplement chromium in tablet or capsule form. Chromium's two forms are chromium picolinate (which contains a non-GRAS bonding compound) an chromium polynicotinate. Daily dosages as high as 1 mg (1000 mcg) have been reported. Chromium repartitions the body by causing glu cose disposal into muscle cells instead of fat cells. Chromium picolinate, which is patented by the US Depart ment of Agriculture, is only available from one source, Nutrition 21 of San Diego, California. Many dieters are chromium-deficient.

200

199

CLENBUTEROL

CHROMIUM

Generic name:

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

(SPIROPENT AN

NOVEGAM IN MEXICO)

Generic name: Type of drug:

Same B2 adrenergic agonist (asthma drug)

How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Tablets: 20 mcg; syrups; others Thermogenic, anti-catabolic agent RAAD, no FDA, Alert Good ****

This is a potent, although problematic, fat burner. Clen buterol, unlike natural adrenaline, is tailored to affect only the B2 adrenoreceptor. Its major effects are bronchial dilation an increased heat production in the mitochondria of muscle an possibly brown fat. Clenbuterol's major problem is the rapid attenuation of its effectiveness after a few weeks of use. Clenbutero l actually has fewer side effects than ephedrine. Although there is no law in America making it illegal to use or import clenbuterol, it is on the Customs Alert list, with instructions to be disallowed an mailed back to the country of origin or destroyed. In summary, clenbuterol is an instant-gratification fat burner, bu there are thermogenic agents tha t have less side effects or slower attenu ation of effects.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

201

200

BODYOPUS

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BODYOPUS

CLOMID

DUCHAINE

201

CREATINE MONOHYDRATE

(OMININ AND SEROFENE IN MEXICO)

Generic name: ype of drug: How supplied: Used for:

Clomiphene citrate Ovulation stimulator, anti-estroge Tablets: 50 mg Men only; anti-estrogen and testosterone elevation


RAAD, FDA, Rx

Fair ** (for men)

Clomid, which induces ovulation, is a popular oral fertil ity drug for women. Clomid was originally developed as an strogen antagonist, bu was no as popular as the safer Nolvadex. Clomid is a useful drug for me n because it stimulates testosterone secretion and works as an estrogen antagonist at the same time. Fo many me Clomid has worked better than human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injections in starting up testosterone production, probably because it is easier to administer than HCG Clomid is obscenely expensive in the United States and dirt cheap in Mexico. Fo r the quickest response, use 100 mg per day (2 tablets). However, even at high dosages, Clomid does no ele vate serum testosterone to dazzling levels. Athletes with low testosterone will find Clomid will no boost natural testosterone into even the middle of normal range.

02


BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Same Nutrient Tablets; capsules; powder; liqUid (varies) Strength, energy substrate replacement GRAS limbo Excellent ****

The primary energy source for muscular movement and heat production is adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is made through a process that directly involves creatine phosphate. Common wisdom says that red meat imparts strength. Specifi cally, meat's creatine content is the energy substrate. Creatine supplementation provides energy without calories, fat or cho lesterol. Creatine's drawback is the amount needed to duplicate the results of the research studies. Optimal dosage is 30 g per day .(the equivalent of 10 pounds of beeD, usually taken in 5 g serv ings, 6 times pe day. Despite the cost, inconvenience and the fact that it tastes like sand, creatine is a worthwhile supplement if you have the patience to keep taking it. I t will be more bene ficial to dieters who do no consume beef. Lower dosages (6 g \ a day) can be effective after a loading phase. .,

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

203

02

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Legal status: Availability; Cost-effectiveness:

203

CYTOMEL (CYNOMEL IN MEXICO)

CYTADREN Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for:

DUCHAINE

Aminoglutethimide Anti-cortisol Tablets: 250 mg Anabolic steroid replacement,


anti-estrogen RAAD, FDA, Rx Poor

Since many of the benefits of anabolic steroids come from their anti-catabolic action, bodybuilders have become inter ested in drugs d eveloped for Cushing's Syndrome, such as Cyta dren. Cytadren inhibits cortisol secretion at the adrenal glands. While it has helped Cushing's Syndrome patients, it has been disappointing performance drug. Anabolic steroids block corti sol from its receptors, bu at t he same t ime proVide some of the anti-inflammatory properties of cortisol. By reducing cortisol at the source, Cytadren does nothing with the cortisol receptor, and has no anti-inflammatory prop erties whatsoever. Overdoses of Cytadren will actually increase cortisol secretion. Low dosages will cause joint inflammation, without any anti-catabolic benefit. Cytadren is no an effective alternative to anabolic steroids, bu might be useful as an

Liothyrine sodiu T3 thyrOid hormone replacement Tablets: 5 mcg, 25 mcg, 50 mc Dieting an body temperature regulation RAAD, FDA, Rx Good **

Cytomel is synthetiC T3 thyroid ho rmone. Most natural T3 is no made by the thyrOid gland, bu is converted from T4 thy roid hormone. In traditional thyroid replacement therapy, T4 is the best choice. However, athletes wh have low T3 levels from faulty T4 to T3 conversion will no benefit from added T4. Both low-calorie diets an some thermogenic drugs can reduce avail able T3. "

Cytomel supp leme ntat ion can be beneficial, bu it is nec to take blood tests to ensure that you maintain normal ~ : ' t h y r o i d gland function. Too much T3 will suppress the thyroid ,J,gland for up to 8 weeks. Mexican Cynomel is only available in 1"25 mcg amounts. ,~

, ~ : e s s a r y

;,

adjunct.

204

ODYOPUS

DHEA (ACRONYM FOR D1HYDROEPIANDROSTERONE)

DUCHAiNE

BODYOPUS

DIAMOX

DUCHAINE

205

204

ODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAiNE

(ACRONYM FOR D1HYDROEPIANDROSTERONE)

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied:

same Adrenal androg en Capsules: 50 to 150 mg (varies) Dieting, repartitionin RAAD, non-FDA, C-III (! Poor

Used for:

'>

DHEA is a steroid which was Scheduled by the DE in December 1994. DHEA, the most abundant androgen in the body, is produced in copious amounts by the adrenal glands of both men and women. the supplemen t has anabolic or andro genic effects, I haven't seen any signs of them. Obviously, the DE differs in opinion. DHEA is interesting because both geriatrics and the obese are usually DHEA deficient. Research indicates that DHEA accel erates fat loss via an unknown mechanism. Many of these stud ies were done with a surprisingly low 50 mg oral dose. Besides the lack of substantial research, DHEA has a num ber of problems. It's hard to find in America, quite expensive, an there's no consensus on the optimal dosage. Now, you must go ou of the country to purchase it legally. Many dieters have tried the 50 mg size with no results.

06

205

DIAMOX

DHEA

General name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Acetazomide Quasi-diuretic Tablets: 125 mg, 250 mg; injectable: 500 mg Bodybuilding competition specific RAAD, FDA, Rx Poor ****

Diamox is no an ordinary diuretic. It was originally intended to be used to reduce edema in glaucoma patients and high elevation mountain climbers. Diamox is unusual because it seems to pull fluids ou of the tissues before the kidney Injectable Diamox looks like a perfect candidate for one-time bodybuilding use because it is rapid an predictable. Since it is designed to reduce edema in the tissues, the fluid reduction doesn't lower blood pressure as radically as other diuretics do. Many bodybuilders may find that Diamox is the only diuretic they need for competition. Ultimately, however, Diamox has the same problem that all diuretics do excreting fluids from the wrong tissues too rapidly There will be better "tools" available for cont est bodybuilders in the immediate future.

BODYOPUS

EPOGEN

DUCHAINE

AN

PROCRIT

207

06

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Hydrochlorothiazide and Triamterene Diuretic Capsules: 25 mg, 50 mg (tablets in Mexico) Bodybuilding competition specific RAAD, FDA, Rx Fair

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied Used for: . Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Epoetin Alpha or Erythropoietin Red blood cell booster Injectable: 2000, 3000, 4000, 10,000 IU Ergogenic aid (oxygen carrier) RAAD, FDA, Rx Fair (dieting)

(ergogenic aid)

**

Dyazide is the most popular diuretic among bodybuilding contest competitors. Dyazide is a mild potassium-sparing diuretic, w hich causes diuresis throu gh so dium excretion. Sinc muscle tissue holds more potassium th an sodium, bodybuilders favor Dyazide, ho ping th at muscle size will stay while "droppin water." In reality, Dyazide is no a terribly effective diuretic. Most bodybuilders aren't happy with just 1 or 2 pills over the course of day. After realizing that Dyazide is "weak," bodybuilders usually take more or use something stronger. Of course, high dosages will deplete potassium as Dyazide is no completely potassium sparing. Dyazide is fine, I guess, if it makes you happy. However, Dyazide is slow, imprecise and no very controllable. There are better diuretics to use.

08

207

DUCHAINE

EPOGEN AN PROCRIT (EPREX IN MEXICO)

DYAZIDE

Generic name:

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

This drug is used mostly in endurance sports, where replaces the older blood doping trick. Epogen stimulates the produc tion of red blood cells, which allows your blood to carry more oxygen. Epogen has had very limited use in the strength sports, as red blood cell count is usually normal to high in male weight trainers using anabolic steroids. However, in some cases, especially in women who are dieting too severely an (over) training, hematocrit will fall to an unacceptable level. Hemat ocrit (blood cell percentage of total blood volume) shou ld ide ally be between 40 to 50 percent. Of course, athletes prefer numbers closer to 50 to achieve better energy, vascularity, "pumpability" an a healthier look. Contest bodybuilders who use diuretics should no use Epogen, because their blood will already be too viscous. By th way, Epogen is even more expen sive than human growth hormone.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

209

08

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

EPHEDRINE

ESICLENE

(VARIOUS TRADE NAMES)

(ITALY ONLY)


Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for:

Same Beta-adrenergic agonis t Tablets and capsules: 25 mg (GTC) Thermogenic agent RAAD, FDA, GTC, Rx (50 mg) Excellent (for now) ***

Ephedrine is a refinement of Ephedra vulgaris, also known as Ma Huang, the Chinese energy herb. Ephedrine acts much like adrenaline (and somewhat like amphetamine). Ephedrine pri marily stimulates B1 and B2 adrenoreceptors, bu also affects the alpha adrenoreceptors. Ephedrine is an over-the-counter asthma medication in the United States, limited to one 25 mg size, although prescription ephedrine is available in a 50 mg tablet. This drug has been immensely popular with athlete an dieters because of its thermogenic effects and slight Bl agonist action. Although popular and legal, ephedrine is no a very elegant thermogenic agent. Its side effects include increased heart rate, blood pressure a nd risk of stroke. Actually, clenbuterol, whi ch is more receptor specific, is more effective and has less side effects. clenbuterol is available, eph edrine is no necessary.

210

ODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

DUCHAINE


209

Formyldienolone Anabolic steroid Injectable; tablets (varies) Temporary an locally injected cosmetic muscle growth RAAD, non-FDA, C-III, Alert Poor **

Esiclene is one of those oddball Italian anabolic steroids coveted by contest bodybuilders. This injectable steroid is no potent anabolic. However, it has the curious side effect of caus ing so much irritation at the injection site that the muscle starts swelling. This temporary condition does no look puffy like reg ular water retention. The muscle looks bigger an the skin is still thin-looking. Injections over several days will "bring up" a , underdeveloped mus cle area. Esiclene works best in small mus cle groups like calves, shoulders an arms.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

211

ODYOPUS

210

FASTIN (REDUCCING S Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

DUCHAINE

211

FERTODUR (MEXICO ONLY)

IN MEXICO)

Phentermine hydrochloride Appetite suppressant Capsules: 30 mg Dieting RAAD, FDA, Rx, C-IV


Fair NR

Fastin is an appetite suppressant an central nervous sys te (CNS) stimulant that also causes mild thermogenesis by stimulating systemic noradrenaline. This drug was very popular with bodybuilders in years past. All versions of Fastin are sup posed to be timed-release, bu the trade name and the generics seem to have different results. "Real" Fastin works gradually and evenly. All of the generics I tried peaked quickly and didn't last as long. You can feel the effects of Fastin for 8 to 10 hours; the generics only last for 6 hours. Like all CNS stimulan ts, Fas tin reduces fatigue, w hich can lead to overtraining. Cessation of use causes mental an physi cal depression. Recently, scientists have become interested in Fastin as an under-prescribed drug for the obese.

212

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Cyclofenil Fertility/ovulation Tablets: 100 mg Testosterone elevation (men only) RAAD, non-FDA Fair

I've never underst ood the pop ularity of this drug. American male athletes have been using this drug over the last few years for its testo sterone-st imulating effects. Cyclofenil is in t he same class of drugs as Clomiphene (Clomid), bu twice as much is needed (100 mg) twice as often. Clomid causes the same effect with only 50 mg. Clomid is widely available in Mexico, while Fertodur is harder to find. Both Clomid and Fertodur can be imported for personal use. For a short time Cyclofenil was sold openly via mail-order in the United States. was technically illegal to do so, bu for a while the FDA wasn't aware of its sales. Fertodur is no a bad drug, bu it's no as good as Clomid. It's no any cheaper, either. Both drugs cause only minimal testos terone elevation in men. Neither are potent enough to restore low testos terone levels Think of Fertodur as an adjunct to nor mal testosterone, no a repl acement therapy.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

213

BODYOPUS

212

DUCHAINE

DUCHAINE

213

GH

GH (PROTOPRIN AN AN

BODYOPUS

HUMATROp, SAIZEN

GENOTROPIN IN MEXICO)

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Vsed for: Legal status: Availabili ty: Cost-effectiveness:

Growth hormone (GH) Anabolic pituitary hormone Injectable (varies) Dieting, anti-catabolic, repartitioning RAAD, FDA, Alert Fair **

This is one of those "icon" drugs. GH is expensive and hard to find on the black market in America. This exclusivity has led to a kind of cult status; GH is immensely popul ar with athletes wh can afford it because it cannot be detected on urine drug test. A 4 IV vial averages $125. Potency varies (by brand name) between 1 IV for each 10 to 16 pounds of lean body weight, administered 3 times per week. you do the arithmetic, you'll see that a GH bill can be over $1000 pe week. Top professional athletes (especially bodybuilders) wh earn six figures a year feel that this expense is justifiable. GH causes significant fat reduction, bu has less of an anabolic effect than steroids. How ever, this small contribution can push a competitor beyond the steroid plateau.

(ACRONYM FO

GAMMA-HYDROXYBUTYRATE)

General name: Type of drug: How supplied: Vsed for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

same Fatty acid derivative Powder; liquid (varies) Growth hormone stimulator, sleep aid RAAD, non-FDA, Alert Poor **

GHB has caused a lot of controversy over the past few years, and the FDA has finally recognized GH as an orphan

drug. Before they decided on its status, they allowed its sale in health food stores and by mail order as a nutritional supple ment. GH is a fatty acid derivative naturally produced in the human brain. Although it has drug-like action, it is no recog nized as a hormone in the body. Fo a short time GH was sold openly as a sleep aid (which it does quite well). Oral dosages average 3 grams dissolved in liquid and cause sleep within 20 ': minutes. GHB can probably raise growth hormone in individu als who can still secrete GH with stimulus; however, this abil ity declines radically with age. is popularly thought to be anti catabolic although it raises cortisol. Go figure. Although the French have done a lot of research on GH for its potential to increase longevity, GH is no longer sold openly in America. Life extensionists are mourning its demise more than athletes. Because it happens to be an absurdly simple compound to , mix up with two chemicals GH is now being used as a recre ational street drug.

14

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

HCG

IONAMIN

(PREGNYL, GONAKOR, GONOPLEX IN MEXICO)

(DIMINEX IN MEXICO)


Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)

Fertility hormone Injectable (varies) Testosterone elevator (men) RAAD, FDA, Rx, Alert Fair

Phentermine resin Appetite suppressant Capsules: 15 mg, 30 mg Dieting, slight thermogenic effect RAAD, FDA, Rx, C-IV, Rx Mexico Poor NR

*

HCG is an injectable fertility drug. Its primary use is to induce ovulation. In men, HCG has been used as an adjunct to anabolic steroid use (either concurrently or consecutively) to normalize testosterone secretion. The problem with HC is no the dr ug itself, bu faulty ad ministr ation of too large and too fre quent dosages. HCG has better po tential than Clomid or Ferto dur, bu many athletes will prefer oral preparations, either because of convenience or because they have had good experi ences with them in the past. Various preparations of HCG, some with B vitamins added in, are available in Mexico. HCG is no an estrogen antagonist; in fact, HCG will raise estrogen in men through higher gonadal estrogen secretion. Even optimal doses of HCG will no raise testosterone measurably in older men. Testicle function declines as me age, even with supple mental stimulation.

16


215

ODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

'"

Ionamin is the other appetite suppressant in the phenter mine family. While Fastin has been the diet pill of choice for bodybuilders in America, Ionamin is the anorectic most often used by European athletes. Most athletes prefer the 30 mg size, called "forte" (strong) in Europe. Ionamin is supposed to be milder and work longer than Fastin. However, most athletes familiar with both say that Fastin has a harder an longer "kick" and I onami n has a gentler and sho rter activity. Some people who get too jittery on Fastin can tolerate Ionamin better. Ionamin has the usual side effects an dependency problems of prescription anorectics.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

217

ODYOPUS

16

DUCHAINE

DUCHAINE

217

MAXIBOL

LASIX

(EDENOL IN

BODYOPUS

( M E X I C O ONLY)

MEXICO)

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availabili ty: Cost-effectiveness:

Furosemide Diuretic Tablets: 20 mg, 40 mg; injectable: 2,4,10 ml Bodybuilding competition specialty dr ug RAAD, FDA, Rx Good ****

Lasix is the king of diuretics. Many athletes choose Dyazide instead because of Lasix's reputation of being harsh and potas sium-robbing. In reality, large doses of Dyazide will also deplete potassium. I prefer to use Lasix (in a coach capacity) because of its speed and predictability. In addition, 1 always prefer to use injectable diuretics because they are more controllable an d more precise than oral preparations. The beauty of Lasix is that a small intravenous injection will star t working within 5 minutes and will peak within 30 minutes, which allows full fluid deple tion in less than a day. When used synergistically with Mydox, Lasix can be given i n low dosages.

18

MELADININA

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE


Dibencozide B-12 co-en zyme derivative Capsules Anabolic (ha-ha-ha) GRAS Excellent (American generics) **

This is no an anabolic steroid, although many American bodybuilders have been fooled into believing that they were buying the similar sounding Maxibolan. Maxibol is a black-col ored capsule containing the light-sensitive co-enzyme B-12, a more potent form of the familiar vitamin B-12. Even though Maxibol is listed in the Mexican drug registry as an "anabolic," is not. Some athletes swear that dibencozide stimulates appetite and causes an energy burst, bu this does no happen to everyone. I prefer the Maxibol brand over the generics because Maxibol is a quality product packed in black opaque capsules and foil wrap to protect it from light. Many generics look like they were made in a hurry and have been adulterated with light.

BooyOPUS

MELLITRON

DUCHAINE

219

18

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BooyOPUS

MELADININA

Used for: Legal status Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

(MEXICO ONLY)

Ammoidin Melanin enhancer Tablets: 10 mg; cream: 4 mg/ml; liquid: 7.7 mg/ml Tanni ng accelerato RAAD, non-FDA Fair

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

NR

Unfortunately, competition rules require bodybuilders to have a skin tan. I don't like the practice, and I wish that judges would n ot influence competitors to damage their skin this way All paint-on tans have an odd hue unless you have dark skin underneath. Meladinina creams an liquids are both popular melanin enhancers. Wh ile taking Meladinina, even normal expo sures to UV light can cause severe burns. Individuals tend no to believe that Meladinina works so well and, of course, they get burned. I suppose that Meladinina is okay used properly; it cer tainly could drastically reduce tanning time. However, most users do n't exercise restraint. Personally, I can't stan d tann ed skin I like very white skin, with little blue veins. I also like long, long red hair. Ooo-la-Ia!

220

219

MELLITRON

(MEXICO ONLY)

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied:

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Metformin with clorpropamide Insulin agonist, glucose disposal agen Tablets: 400 mg/125 mg Repartitioning agent, blood glucose disposal agen RAAD, FDA (Glucophage) Poor

,

Mellitron is classified as one of the biquides, a class of drugs used as a glucose disposal agent for diabetics. Unfortu na ely, Mellitron also includes a sulfonylurea drug that stimu glates insulin release, which defeats the purpose of using met !formin to lower insulin secretion. 11

Since the FDA has just approved metformin under the trade name Glucophage, Mellitron is no a good choice. I pre ~ d i c t that Glucophage and Debeone will be the next big "find" in ~ J h e bodybuilding world. Cannily used, these biquides can cause %greater glycogen supercompensation during carb-ups and also '!:lower blood glucose more quickly to induce ketosis. Metformin "'is also popular with life extensionists, as insulin levels tend to increase with age. :1,

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

221

220

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

MYDOX


221

NARINGIN

Metolazone Diuretic Tablets: 500 mg Bodybuilding competiti on specialty dr ug RAAD, FDA, Rx Fair


****

On its own, Mydox is no

particularly fast-acting no potent. A few years ago it wou ld no have merited any attention. Now, however, bodybuilding contests require a more "dried out" look. Mydox is useful because it works synergistically with Lasix, making a smaller dose of Lasix work even more qUickly than a larger dose. The same compound comes in a slower-acting form called Zaroxolyn, which is available in Mexico. Zaroxolyn is formu lated in the following tablets: 2-1/2 mg (8-hour duration), 5 and 10 mg (24-hour duration). I prefer the shorter-acting Mydox because it will allow you to end the diuresis before bed on the night before the show.

222

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

,f

Same Xanthine extender Tablets; powders Thermogenic enhancer (not) No GRAS ? ****

Remember the Grapefruit Diet which was supposed to burn the fat off with grapefruit? We smart-alecks ha a good laugh about that one, bu now we kno w it's true. The bitter com pound naringin is concentrated in grapefruit flowers an rinds. When used with caffeine or theophylline, naringin will slow the breakdown of the xanthines in the liver. Because caffeine's metabolite, paraxanthine, is just as thermogenic as caffeine, naringin will no enhance caffeine's thermogenic effect. How ever, naringin will extend caffeine's stimulant effect. Unfortu nately, you will no see a naringin pill on the market; the FDA disallowed these pills a few years ago because of drug-like claims on the label.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

223

BODYOPUS

222

DUCHAINE

(MEXICO ONLY)

Dibencozide B-12 co-e nzyme Injectable Anabolic (I wish) Quasi RAAD, non-FDA, Alert Good


**

Neurofor is the holy grail of dibencozides, a water-based injectable co-enzyme B-12. Only 10 percent of ingested B-12 makes it through the digestive system to the bloodstream. This is no big deal, as the RD of B-12 is small an the vitamin can be stored in the liver. Athletes who want to really jack up their B-12 or dibencozide can just use some big doses in oral form. Injection is a more elegant solution. Neurofor is produced by Roussell, the mak er of quality oral dibencozide preparations. Personally, I never thought Neurofor was good for anything. However, there are plenty of track-and-field athletes who are convinced that Neurofor has anabolic and energizing effects. Bodybuilders who have used anabolic steroids don't rate Neu rofor highly at all. Neurofor is foreign, odd, injectable, quasi legal. Ergo, popular.

224

DUCHAINE

223

NOLVADEX (TAMOXIL IN MEXICO)

NEUROFOR

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal statu s: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Tamoxifen citrate Estrogen antago nist Tablets: 10 mg, 20 mg Dieting repartitioning agent RAAD, FDA, Rx Alert Good **

This oral anti-estrogen has been immensely popular a mong competition bodybuilders. has a curious reputation, as some athletes feel that Nolvadex is ineffective, while others (usually people who have actually used the drug) think that Nolvadex is essential. The truth, as I see it, is that Nolvadex works moderately well. When judg ed against clenbuterol or yohimbe, Nolvadex is no cost effective. However, it cannot be dismissed. Although other anti-estrogens, such as Teslac, would seem to be prefer able, the availability an price of Nolvadex make it attractive. Nolvadex will definitely make a difference for women dieters.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

224

NUBAIN (NARCANTI, NALBU


DUCHAINE

OKG

(ACRONYM FOR ORNITHINE KETO-GLUTARATE)

IN MEXICO)

Nalbuphrine hydrochlorid Mild pain killer Injectable: 10 cc (20 mglml vial), cc mg ampoule) Dieting, anti-catabolic RAAD, FDA, Rx, Mexico Rx Fair

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: 'i,

NR

Nubain brings up a touchy subject among bodybuilders. Nubain is an injectable morphine-like analgesic (pain-killer) that is no narcotic and has no special scheduling other than being a prescription drug. Numerous top bodybuilders have used Nuba in for pre-contest preparation. has a range of attrac tive effects appetite suppression, cortisol reduction, pain control and sleep assistance. Basically, it makes the brutal pre contest dieting and training easier. Does have problems? Nubain has remarkably few dele terious physical effects, bu does have the potential to cause dependency. it was as dangerous as morphine, it would hav been Scheduled. However, remember that can cause depen dency in individuals who would have problems with any addic tive drug.

26

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODY OPUS

DUCHAINE

"I

i


same Amino acid combination Capsules, powders (varies) Anti-catabolic, energy substrate replacement GRAS

Excellent

Every once in a while some odd nutritional compound descends out of hospitals and into the athletic nutritional sup plemen t business. OK is a combination of ornithine, an amino acid, and an amino acid derivative called keto-glutarate. OKG has been sho wn to be anti-catabolic in bu patients and in geri atrics recovering from surgery. OKG is supposed to boost growth hormone, raise insulin and replace diminished energy substrates. Although it's effective at preventing muscle loss while diet ing, the real question is: will you have the patience take 10 g of it every day? OK is a totally obnoxious-tasting compound; 10 g cost about $3. Because of the cost and discipline involved, most people won't use OK in the proper dosage in a consistent manner.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

227

26

BODY OPUS

DUCHAINE

PERVITIN

1

(GERMANY ONLY)

Generic name: Type o f drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

227

PHENFORMIN (DEBEONE AND FENFORMIN IN MEXICO)

Amphetamine Appetite suppressant Injectable Dieting, anti-fatigue agent RAAD, non-FDA, C-II Poor NR

I wasn't sure I wanted to include Pervitin on this list. Pervitin is a creepy injectable amphetamine produced in Ger many. Amphetamines are the most potent of the anorectics an easily cause addiction. Pervitin is very popular in bicycle racing - which of course means that it is banned and tested for. European body builders use it for dieting. does everything you imagine, both bad an good increases strength, eliminates fatigue an reduces appetite for 12 hours or more. Most athletes overtrain while using it.

Generic name How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Same Dieting, repartitioning agent RAAD, special FDA, Alert Good ****

Whenever I write a new book I predict the next big drug for the athletic world. This time, I predict that phenformin (along with yohimbe) will be on of those neglected drugs that will be found to be immensely effective for a few specific pur poses. Phenformin is the most potent glucose disposal agent I know of (other than, of course, insulin). serves the same pu r pose as chromium an vanadyl sulfate, bu works through a more powerful mechanism. has been used to manipulate blood glucose downward to cause ketosis, although it has no been its use in glycogen supercompensation has no been inves tigated. Perhaps phenformin works too well. It had FDA approval up until 1977, when it was voluntarily withdrawn because of some problems with blood acidosis. Physicians used to be able to obtain phenformin through the FDA for diabetic patients who could no administer insulin via injections (due to blindness or arthritis, for example), and needed an oral insulin replacement. Phenformin still has a future in athletics as most doctors will no prescribe Glucophage to non-diabetics and phenformin is over-the-counter in Mexico.

28

PONDIMIN (DIOMERIDE

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

DUCHAINE

229

PROVIRON IN MEXICO)

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Use for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Fenfluram ine Appetite suppre ssan Tablets: 20 mg; capsules: 15 mg; transdermal patch Dieting, sleep aid RAAD, FDA, Rx, C-IY, Mexico Rx Poor ****

I usually don't comment positively on diet pills. Even the milder ones m ask fatigue too well an lead unwary athletes into overtraining. In addition, athletes who use caffeine, ephedrine and clenbuterol don't need another upper thrown into the mix. However, Pondimin is so different and fills a need so well that I think it's a worthwhile dieting drug. Pondimin is an appetite suppressant that is not a stimulant. In fact, it has a slight depressive effect. Many dieters control appetite during the day with ephedrine and clenbuterol, bu you can't use stimulants at night. Pondimin is perfect for night use because it significantly dulls your appetite while allowing you to sleep. Because Pondimin does no cause euphoria, the potential for abuse is quite low. I have tried both tablets and the capsules, and I pre fer the capsules.

230

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: , Used for: Legal status: Availabili ty: Cost-effectiveness:

Mesterolone Androgenic steroid Tablets: 25 mg Estrogen antagonist RAAD, non-FDA, C-III, Alert Poor

Proviron is an oral steroid that has no anabolic effects. Although I have excluded most steroids from this list, I have included Proviron because it gained a reputation in the early 1980s as an anti-estrogen. Proviron is similar to Teslac in that it I; is supposed to block the conversion of testosterone (or similar i,; synthetic steroids) into estrogen. The best drug for this purpose : is Teslac; Provir on has be en c hosen over Teslac sim ply because of availability an price. I have found t hat Proviron has too many problems to make it worthwhile. It is now illegal to use. has androgenic side effects, especially in women. In addition, Proviron has a higher affinity to steroid receptors than anabolic steroids, including ~ : natural testosterone. Proviron's net effect is to lessen the over t; all anabolic climate in the body.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

231

230

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Use for: Legal status: Availabili ty: Cost-effectiveness:

Potassium chloride Essential mineral Tablets: 600 mg (approx. 325 mg potassium) Electrolyte replacement RAAD(!), FDA, Rx Good

There are two instances in which you might need potas sium supplementation. First, it can be used to replace potassium that has b een excreted after using diuretics. Also, ketogenic diets (such as BODYOPUS) increase potassium excretion. In either case, you need to know how much potassium to replace. Serum potassium levels from a blood test are the only true measure. Too much potassium will cause irregular heartbeat, paralysis an cardiac arrest. Please refer to the section on diuretics for a more complete discussion of potassium. Slo-K is no the best potassium preparation, bu it's the most popular. I have no idea why. A much better potassium replacement is Polycitra-K, a liquid preparation that also lowers blood acid (which would be especially helpful to BODYOPUS dieters). Non-prescription potassium supplements are limited to 99 mg per pill.

232

231

STADOL

SLO-K

Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied:

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE


Butorphanol tartrate Pain killer Injectable: 2 mg/cc (10 cc vial); nasal spray Dieting, anti-catabolic RAAD, FDA, Rx Fair NR

This injectable pain killer is related to Nubain an Buprenex. With athletes who use such drugs, Stadol is second in popularity after Nubain. Stadol is more potent milligram for milligram; 2 mg of Stadol has the pain suppression pow er of 20 mg of Nubain. Stadol will make you more lethargic than N ubain will. Recently, the bodybuilding community became aware of the veterinary version of this drug (trade name Torbugesic, which comes 10 mg/ml, in a 50 ml bottle).

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

233

232

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

IN MEXICO)


Generic name: How supplied: Used for:

Levothyroxine sodium T4 Thyroid replacement Tablets: 25 mcg to 300 mcg Thermogenic agent RAAD, FDA, Rx Good


**

Synthetic T4 thyroid is the most popular thyroid replace ment drug; it is uncommon to see physicians prescribe animal derived thyroid preparations. Synthrotd lasts for a long time in the body, as most of the drug is bound to carrier proteins in the blood. the cause of reduced thyroid horm one levels is decreased output from the thyroid gland (which will be indicated by ele vated thyroid stimulating hormone levels), then Synthroid is the right choice. However, if the T4 to T3 conversion process is the problem you have normal T4 levels an low T3 levels), T4 supplementation wil no help.

234 TESLAC

233

TENUATE

SYNTHROID

(TIROl DINE

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

Diethylpropion hydrochloride Tablets: 25 mg, 75 mg (Tenuate Dospan) Dieting (appetite suppressant, anti fatigue) RAAD, FDA, Rx, C-IV, Mexico Rx Poor NR

The problem w ith Tenuate, whic h is the mildest of the diet pills, is that many athletes start ou with Tenuate with the best of intentions an later try to get it to do things that it is no intended for. Of the non-amphetamine anorectics, Tenuate's effects attenuate the fastest. Usually, the appetite suppressing effects peter ou within 2 weeks. At the point, some athletes will double the dose or combine Tenuate with another anorectic, notably Fastin. Tenuate's attraction is that it is one of the few CNS stimu , lating anorectics that is available in a small, short-acting tablet; 25 mg only lasts a few hours. Because most people aren't hun gry all day, Tenuate is useful in blocking hunger at specific times. Side effects an withdrawal symptoms are less apparent than with other anorectics.

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

THEOPHYLLINE

235

234

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

TESLAC


TICLlD

235

THEOPHYLLINE

Tes tolactone

Same CNS stimulant, methylxanthine, thermogenic agent Tablets; capsules; liqUids (varies) Synergistic with thermogenic drugs Fair

Anti-estrogen Tablets: 50 mg Dieting, repartitioning agen RAAD, FDA, Rx, C-III Poor **

Teslac is rarely used as an estrogen antagonist in body building, which is too bad because has a lot of potential in this area. Teslac was develop ed in the 1950s, and curren tly only has one approved use in America - o combat breast cancer tumor growth in post-menopausal women, whose main source of estrogen is from the conversion of adrenal androsterone to estrone (the les potent of the three estrogens). Teslac blocks the enzyme that causes this conversion. Fo athletes, Teslac would be an ideal solut ion to steroid aromatiza tion. Teslac also stimulates testosterone production in men. Unfortunately, Teslac is expensive, with an average retail price of $5 pe tablet at a daily dose of 5 tablets. Although I haven't found any way to get it more inexpenSively, som eone eventually will. Teslac was recently reclassified as a Schedule III drug (the same category as anabolic steroids).

236

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHA1NE

Both theophylline an caffeine are methylxanthines, an have a very similar chemical structure. In America, theophylline is used as an asthma medication, either alone (by prescription) with ephedrine (over-the-counter). All methylxanthines ~ ! o r i;release fatty acids by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down ticyclic AMP (cAMP) in cells. Theophylline allows cAMP to build i,lfup in the fat cells, so that stimulation by catecholamines (nora ~ : p . r e n a l i n e ephedrine, clenbuterol, etc.) lasts longer. Theo ~ i p h y l l i n e ' s side effects include increased heart rate and blood " ~ , . p r e s s u r e . Although theophylline probably works better with ' r ~ p h e d r i n e than caffeine, FDA regulations make caffeine an iptheophylline combinations easier to acquire. ~ I , ' ,~

'·i"

BODYOPUS

DUCHA1NE

THIOMUCASE

237

236

BODYOPUS

DUCHA1NE

TICLlD Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Ticlopidine hydrochloride Blood platelet aggregation inhibitor Tablets: 250 mg Bodybuilding diuretic adjunct RAAD,FDA,Rx Good ****

This is one of the "insurance" drugs that should be used before you take diuretics. Ticlid keeps the solid parts of the blood cells from clumping together. In most healthy people, clumpi ng is not a problem. However, extreme de hydratio n from diuretics will highly concentrate the solids in the blood. Hema tocrit levels, which are usually between 40 to 50 (percent), can climb to above 70 (1) during a bodybuilding competition. Less blood fluid also independently reduces the slipperiness of the blood solids. To insure against blood clots, strokes a nd cardiac arrest, it is a good idea to use Ticlid and Trental for 2 weeks before contest diuretics are started. Of course, Ticlid is no guar antee tha t a disaster won't happen. In addition, Ticlid increases the risk of bleeding from everyday cuts.

38

BODYOPUS

DUCHAINE

BODYOPUS

DUCHA1NE

237

THIOMUCASE (THIOMUCASE IN FRANCE, WYDASE IN AMERICA) Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Hyaluronidase Diffusing agent Tablets; injectables; suppositorie s; creams Fat cell reducer (ha-ha-ha) RAAD, FDA, Rx, Alert, approved for cosmetic use Poor (cream is OTC)

This enzyme is used to allow fluids to spread ou from an area that has been injected wit h anothe r drug. American Wydase is approved only for this purpose. In France, however, Thiomu case is marketed as a cream to remove cellulite. They reason that Thiomucase will rep artition the excess water ou t of the fat cells. Some people have used Thiomucase wraps combined with mild electric current through the fatty areas. Bodybuilders who have used Thiomucase didn't find it to be effective. Thiomucase cream is approved in this count ry for cosmetic purposes, as long as it makes no claims to reduce fat, only to make the cellulite look better. Obviously, the FDA allows a bit of slack for cosmetic products.

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TRENTAL


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239

TORBUGESIC

Pentoxifylline Blood viscosity conditioner Tablets: 400 mg; injectable: 300 mg (Mexico only) Diuretic adjun ct RAAD, FDA, Rx Good ****

Ii:


Butorphoral tartrate Pain killer Injectable: 10 mglml (50 ml vials) Analgesic, anorectic, anti-catabolic, sleep aid RAAD, FDA, Rx (animal use only) Poor NR

Because diuretics thicken the blood, I recommend Trental and Ticlid as insurance against a blood aggregation disaster. Trental differs from Ticlid in that Trental makes red blood cells more flexible an slippery, which allows blood to continue to flow even when hematocrit is stupidly high. would be nice if bodybuilders didn't need to use these drugs, bu strong diuret ics are part of top male bodybuilding contests. Trental won't impart any better cosmetic "look." It's insurance. A live, vertica competitor always looks bett er than a dead, horizontal one.

Torbugesic is a concentrated form of Stadol. is probably the most potent morphine analogue you can get without the special paperwork that is required for Scheduled drugs. Let me remind you that I don't recommend all of the drugs in this list. I have tried to include every dru g I've be en involved with so you know about them, no necessarily because they are wonderful. You may have noticed that I do no rate anorectics and pain killers because they are often abused. I included Torbugesic, although, like Stadol, it has a high potential for dependency, because the markedly higher dosage makes it almost a different drug. This drug will make you extremely lethargic. Do some bodybuilders use it? Yes.

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TRIACANA

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TRISORALEN

(FRANCE ONLY)

Generic name:

Generic name: Type of drug:

Trioxsalen Melanin enhan cer

24

240

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TRISORALEN

TRIACANA (FRANCE ONLY)


Generic name: Type of drug: How suppl ied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Quasi-thyroid (T3 type) Tablets: 35 mcg; creams Dieting, thermogenic agent RAAD, non-FDA, Alert Poor **

Triacana is a T3-like drug which lacks the amino acid tail that natural thyroid hormones have In France, Triacana is no used as a thyroid replacement, bu as a dieting drug because it has a slight thyroid-hormone-like action. Supposedly, Triacana will no interfere with the body's natural thyroid production, although a high e nough dose will cause TSH depression. Tria cana is no as potent or effective as syntheti c T3 (Cytomel), bu it is mild enough that a small overdose will no cause major problems. Triacana, which is also a mild thermogenic agent, is no bad choice for a temporary dieting aid. As with any thyroid drug, you shoul d get blood tests do ne before taking Triacana. Of course, since Cytomel is more effective, it sho uld be u sed much more cautiously, and certainly along with blood tests.

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VANADYL SULFATE Generic name:

Same

DUCHAINE

Trioxsalen Melanin enhan cer Tablets: 5 mg Tanni ng acceler ator RAAD, FDA, Rx Poor **

Trisoralen is similar to Meladinina, although it is only available in oral form. Trisoralen has very specific directions. Two tablets shoul d be taken 2 hours before UV radiation an d for only 14 days (the bottles contain 28 tablets). Trisoralen is used by American bodybuilders to prepare for contests. Although tablets are convenient an neat, the cream an liqUid are much more effective. All forms increase your risk of skin burns. Many bodybuilders use 3 instead of 2 tablets - perhaps they figur that there is more skin to tan! Bodybuilders are eagerly looking forward to the yet-to-be-approved melanin boosters that will cause a tan without the use of UV radiation. As for me, I still prefer porcelain-white skin.

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YOHIMBE (DAYTO (DAYTO HIMBI N, YOC ON, YOHIMEX

243

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242

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VANADYL SULFATE Generic name: Type of drug: How supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability: Cost-effectiveness:

Same Mineral (nonessential) Tablets; sublingual drops (varies) Dieting, glucose disposal non-GRAS Excellent ****

Vanadyl sulfate is a soluble form of vanadium. Scientists haven't determined determined if vanadium is essential, an for some rea so it is no included on th GRAS list. Vanadyl sulfate seems transport glucose from th bloodstream across the cell mem brane much like chromium. Unlike chromium, vanadyl sulfate does no require insulin to work its glucose trick. Most athletes prefer vanadyl sulfate over chromium because it works better. Since chromium is essential, I recom mend that you use both minerals daily. Vanadium is no present must be taken as a supplement. in large amounts in food, so Oddly enough, vanadyl sulfate is still used for dyeing textiles an ceramics. Most health food supplements never fulfill fulfill expec tations of drug-like action, bu vanadyl sulfate is one of the two supplements supplements that does. (The other is creatine monohydrate.) Money spent on vanadyl sulfate is money well spent.

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YOHIMBE (DAYTO (DAYTO HIMBI N, YOC ON, YOHIMEX IN AMERICA)

Generic name: Type Type of drug: Ho supplied: Used for: Legal status: Availability Availability Cost-effectiveness:

Same A2 adrenergic antagonis Tablets: Tablets: 5.4 mg Fa loss (sort aD, penile erector RAAD, FDA, Rx Good ****

Yohimbe is th concentrated extract of an African tree bark. Although yohimbe is prescribed for male impotence in America, it is one of the rare A2 adrenergic antagonists. Meta bolic slowdown and accumulated lower body fa in women can be blamed in part on an excess of A2 receptors. Yohimbe is no a thermogenic agent, bu a thermogenic extender. Yohimbe, by binding up the A2 receptors, should block the decrease in nora drenaline production caused by extended dieting.

57458637 Dan Duchaine Body Opus

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