Banned in the UFC: Understanding Ostarine and How to Avoid It

Ostarine, also known as MK-2866 or Enobosarm, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) that is designed to promote muscle growth and prevent muscle wasting. Although ostarine is not approved for human use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it has been found in some dietary supplements marketed to bodybuilders and athletes.

The use of ostarine as a performance-enhancing drug is prohibited in sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), and athletes who are subject to drug testing by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) should avoid using ostarine or any other SARMs as they are prohibited substances in sports.

Why UFC Fighters Should Avoid Ostarine

Many UFC fighters have been suspended over the years for testing positive for ostarine, including TJ Dillashaw, Sean O’Malley, and Josh Barnett. The use of prohibited substances can result in severe consequences, including suspensions, fines, and damage to an athlete's reputation.

It is essential for UFC fighters to be aware of the risks associated with using ostarine and other prohibited substances, and to take steps to avoid them. Even if an athlete did not intend to use ostarine, it can be found in contaminated supplements or other products.

How Can UFC Fighters Avoid Ostarine?

Here are some tips that can help UFC fighters avoid ostarine:

• Know the prohibited substance list: UFC fighters should familiarize themselves with the WADA Prohibited List, which includes ostarine and other SARMs. The list is regularly updated, so fighters should check it before using any supplements or medications.
• Avoid unregulated supplements: Ostarine and other SARMs are often found in dietary supplements marketed to bodybuilders and athletes. UFC fighters should avoid using unregulated supplements and should be aware that even if a product claims to be "natural" or "herbal," it may still contain prohibited substances.
• Get advice from a healthcare professional: UFC fighters should consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or registered dietitian, before using any supplements or medications to ensure they are safe and legal.
• Be aware of contamination risks: Ostarine and other SARMs can be inadvertently ingested through contaminated supplements or other products. UFC fighters should be aware of this risk and take steps to minimize it, such as choosing reputable supplement companies and avoiding unregulated products.
• Use USADA resources: USADA provides educational resources for athletes to help them understand the anti-doping rules and avoid prohibited substances. UFC fighters can access these resources on the USADA website or by contacting USADA directly for advice and support.

Is Ostarine Safe?

The long-term effects and safety of ostarine use in humans are not well understood, and it is not approved for human use by the FDA. Some research has suggested that ostarine may have potential benefits for muscle growth and bone density in patients with muscle wasting conditions, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects and safety in humans.

Additionally, ostarine and other SARMs may have potential health risks and side effects, such as testosterone suppression, liver toxicity, and cardiovascular complications. UFC fighters and individuals who are considering using ostarine or other SARMs should weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks and should consult with a healthcare professional before using these substances.

UFC fighters should be aware of the risks associated with using ostarine and other prohibited substances and should take steps to avoid them. The use of prohibited substances can result in severe consequences, including suspensions, fines, and damage to an athlete's reputation. UFC fighters should be vigilant about the supplements and medications they use and ensure they are free of prohibited substances.

By following the tips outlined above, UFC fighters can help protect themselves from inadvertent exposure to ostarine and other SARMs, and avoid the negative consequences that can result from using prohibited substances. It is essential for UFC fighters to prioritize their health and safety, both in and out of the octagon, and to maintain their integrity as athletes.