Clenbuterol is a medication that was originally developed to treat asthma in animals. It works as a beta-2-agonist, which means that it widens the airways and stimulates metabolism.
Even though it is not approved for human use in Sweden, it is used illegally in certain training and fitness circles to increase fat burning and preserve muscle mass.
It treats asthma and respiratory diseases in horses. It is classified as an anabolic steroid, an anabolic product. You can do more and become stronger, says Jenny Schulze, head of doping control at Anti-Doping Sweden.
In the world of sports, there are several examples of athletes who have tested positive for clenbuterol. In 2010, cyclist Alberto Contador was suspended during the Tour de France. The same year, former ice hockey goalkeeper Robin Rahm was also suspended for two years for using clenbuterol.
The problem with this particular preparation is that in countries such as China and Mexico, it is given to cattle to make the meat better. It is therefore used illegally in animal breeding. Athletes can then ingest the preparation by eating meat, says Jenny Schulze.
Prior to the World Championship 2014, Mexican players were not allowed to eat beef. Then-manager Miguel Herrera did not want to take any risks that the football players would ingest clenbuterol. In 2011, five players from Mexico tested positive for the substance after eating cattle.
Clenbuterol is classified as a doping agent and is prohibited in all professional sports.
