5-methylhexan-2-amine, also known as 1,4-dimethylpentylamine, is a substance that is prohibited In-Competition under the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC) 2025 Prohibited List¹. This compound is classified under the category S6.B Specified Stimulants, which means that its presence in an Athlete’s urine sample when tested In-Competition would result in an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV).
1. https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/2024-09/2025list_en_final_clean_12_september_2024.pdf
BACKGROUND AND INCIDENT REPORT
The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) received laboratory analyses reports of three (3) supplement samples recently tested at a World Anti-Doping Agency accredited laboratory.
The results relate to the testing of three (3) samples of the VENOM HD Extreme Intensity Pre-Workout dietary supplement manufactured by HD Laboratories (batch numbers: VPFP-270125-3; VPPP-270125-01 and VPBB-270125-3), which contained and were confirmed for the presence of 5- methylhexan-2-amine (1,4-dimethylpentylamine).
This prohibited ingredient was not listed on the label of the supplement’s container, which is misleading to athletes.
ADVISORY TO ATHLETES AND COACHES
Given the detection of methylhexan-2-amine (1,4-dimethylpentylamine) in this supplement brand, Athletes are strongly advised to exercise caution when considering the consumption of all dietary supplements, especially those that claim to have ‘super-energy’ or other similar stimulant effects or may not clearly indicate the full list of ingredients on the label. Methylhexan-2-amine (1,4-dimethylpentylamine) is a prohibited substance as per the WADC 2025 Prohibited List and is prohibited In-Competition.
Its presence in an Athlete’s sample, regardless of intent on the Athlete’s
part, will result in an ADRV. The Strict Liability rule holds Athletes accountable for any Prohibited Substance found in their urine or blood sample, regardless of how or why the substance entered their system. Whether the contaminated supplement was purchased at a reputable retailer who claims their product is clean and safe, will not absolve you of your responsibility when your case proceeds to a hearing.
The ongoing issue of mislabeling and contamination of dietary supplements present significant risks to athletes. Supplement manufacturing is not regulated in South Africa, therefore, SAIDS cannot guarantee nor advise athletes which supplement products are safe and free from contamination.
ADVICE FOR ATHLETES
Athletes are encouraged to consult with a nutritionist or an anti-doping expert before using any supplement, especially when in doubt regarding its contents, and to:
- Stay informed about potential recalls or warnings from SAIDS or other relevant authorities about contaminated or mislabelled products.
- Ensure that you are familiar with the current WADC Prohibited List and understand the implications of consuming substances that may be banned in-competition.
- Remain vigilant and aware of the risks involved in using dietary supplements, and to exercise utmost caution when considering products that do not provide full ingredient transparency or that claim to produce “incredible results”.
If you are unsure of any medication and/or supplement and need assistance, please contact SAIDS at info@saids.org.za and/or make use of the medication check tool at the link https://drugfreesport.org.za/online-medication-check/ to check the status of any registered medications and substances https://earthopensource.org/media/videos/. Kindly note that supplements and medications are two different items; hence our medication check platform does not provide information on any supplements. For a more detailed overview on supplements and their risks, visit the SAIDS website at the following link: https://drugfreesport.org.za/supplements-and-their-risks/