Introduction
As a drug-tested athlete, it’s your responsibility to know exactly what’s in the supplements you take. Just because a product is available over the counter (OTC) doesn’t mean it’s free of banned substances. Many pre-workouts and dietary supplements contain hidden stimulants that could put you at risk of failing a drug test.
This article focuses specifically on stimulants listed under the S6 Stimulant section of the WADA Prohibited List that may be found in dietary supplements. However, it’s important to note that all anabolic steroids, peptide hormones, growth factors, and hormone modulators are strictly prohibited at all times. We will not be covering compounds from these categories in detail. If you have questions about a specific substance in these groups, please refer to the 2025 WADA Prohibited List for the most up-to-date information.
Prohibited vs. Prohibited In-Competition
WADA classifies banned substances into two categories:
· Prohibited – These substances are banned at all times, both in and out of competition. If you are subject to out-of-competition drug testing, you must never use these substances.
· Prohibited In-Competition – These substances are only tested for during competition periods and are not banned out of competition.
Stimulants, classified under Category S6 of the WADA Prohibited List, fall under the Prohibited In-Competition category, meaning they are specifically tested for during competition.
Banned Stimulants Commonly Used in Dietary Supplements
To avoid potential anti-doping violations, athletes should steer clear of supplements containing the following ingredients.
Adrafinil
· Other Names: CRL-40048
Adrafinil is a synthetic compound often marketed as a nootropic in dietary supplements. Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs,” are substances that enhance cognitive functions such as memory and focus. Once ingested, Adrafinil is metabolized into Modafinil, a prescription medication used to treat sleep disorders—which is individually listed as a prohibited substance.
1,3-Dimethylamylamine (DMAA)
· Other Names: Dimethylamphetamine, Methylhexaneamine, Methylhexanamine
DMAA is a synthetic stimulant that was once widely used in pre-workout supplements. While it can enhance energy and performance, it has been linked to serious cardiovascular risks. In April 2013, the FDA banned DMAA in dietary supplements due to safety concerns, yet it can still be found in some products. To avoid potential health risks, always check supplement labels for DMAA, which may also appear under names like 1,3-Dimethylamylamine or Methylhexanamine.
1,3-Dimethylbutylamine (DMBA)
· Other Names: AMP Citrate, 4-Amino-2-methylpentane citrate
DMBA is a synthetic stimulant closely related to DMAA. In 2015, the FDA declared that DMBA is not approved for use in dietary supplements due to a lack of scientifically established safety data. The FDA issued warning letters to companies selling DMBA-containing products, classifying these supplements as 'adulterated' and prohibiting their sale. However, DMBA can still be found in supplements from companies that ignore FDA regulations, posing potential health risks to consumers.
2-Aminoisoheptane (DMHA)
· Other Names: Octodrine, 1,5-Dimethylhexylamine
DMHA is a synthetic stimulant structurally similar to DMAA and DMBA. Like DMBA, the FDA has classified supplements containing DMHA as adulterated and unsafe. In 2019, the FDA issued warning letters to companies selling DMHA-containing products, yet despite regulatory action, some supplements still include DMHA today. To avoid potential health risks, steer clear of supplements that list DMHA or its synonyms: 2-Aminoisoheptane, 1,5-Dimethylhexylamine, or Octodrine.
Eria Jarensis Extract
· Other Names: N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate
Although not banned by the FDA, Eria Jarensis lacks sufficient safety data and is listed as a prohibited substance by WADA. Commonly found in pre-workout and energy supplements, athletes should carefully review supplement labels to avoid unintentionally consuming this banned stimulant.
Higenamine
· Other Names: Norcoclaurine
Higenamine is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist naturally found in several plants, but in supplements, it is most often synthetically produced and listed as Higenamine HCL. While not banned by the FDA, higenamine lacks sufficient safety data and is classified as a prohibited substance by WADA. Unlike many other stimulants, higenamine is banned both in and out of competition, making it particularly risky for drug-tested athletes.
N-Methyl Tyramine (NMT)
· Other Names: 4-Hydroxy-N-methylphenethylamine
N-Methyl Tyramine (NMT) is a methylated derivative of L-Tyramine, a biogenic amine derived from L-Tyrosine. Tyramine functions as a stimulant by increasing norepinephrine release and may also enhance mood through its stimulating effects on dopamine and serotonin. While L-Tyramine itself is not banned, its derivative NMT is classified as a phenethylamine derivative and is prohibited in-competition under WADA regulations.
Oxilofrine
· Other Names: Methylsynephrine
Oxilofrine is a synthetic stimulant that functions as a beta-adrenergic agonist. It is banned by the FDA and classified as a prohibited substance by WADA. Despite these restrictions, some companies continue to include Oxilofrine in their products, often listing it under the name methylsynephrine—which should not be confused with synephrine, a naturally occurring compound found in bitter orange. While synephrine is not currently banned by WADA, it is included in WADA’s Monitoring Program, indicating that it is under investigation for potential misuse in sports.
Ephedrine
· Other Names: Ma Huang (when derived from the Ephedra plant)
Ephedrine is a stimulant and beta-adrenergic agonist. While it was once legal in dietary supplements, the FDA banned ephedrine in 2004 due to safety concerns. However, this ban applies only to dietary supplements—ephedrine is still available in over-the-counter (OTC) medications for asthma and nasal decongestion. Ephedrine is also on WADA’s in-competition prohibited list, with a threshold of 10 micrograms per milliliter in urine. While no longer found in dietary supplements, athletes must carefully check their medications to avoid unintentional violations.
Pseudoephedrine
· Other Names: Sudafed (brand name)
Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug chemically similar to ephedrine. While primarily used as a nasal decongestant, it does possess mild stimulant properties. Pseudoephedrine is prohibited in-competition by WADA when urine concentrations exceed 150 micrograms per milliliter. It is not uncommon for athletes to get sick before a competition and take OTC nasal decongestants or cold medications to feel well enough to compete. However, athletes must exercise caution, as consuming products containing pseudoephedrine could result in a failed drug test.
Conclusion: PR-BREAKER MATERIA – A Safe & WADA-Compliant Pre-Workout
As a drug-tested athlete, the supplements you take matter. Many pre-workout formulas still contain banned stimulants, which could jeopardize your eligibility in competition.
That’s why PR-BREAKER MATERIA is formulated to be 100% free of all WADA-prohibited substances. Our formula delivers clinically dosed ingredients for performance, energy, and focus—without the risk of banned stimulants or harmful additives.
