Study of exposure to substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency in healthy volunteers (ESPAMA_3). Proof of concept
The ESPAMA_3 clinical trial is a Phase 1 study designed to improve sports drug testing. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) bans certain substances because they can give athletes an unfair advantage or cause health harms. To detect these substances accurately, testing laboratories need to understand exactly how the human body absorbs, breaks down, and clears them. In this study, healthy male volunteers receive carefully controlled amounts of a prohibited substance under close medical supervision. Scientists then collect and analyse blood and urine samples over time. This proof-of-concept trial aims to help laboratories identify tiny traces or breakdown products of banned substances. The findings will support cleaner, fairer sports testing worldwide. It is open to healthy men aged 18 and older.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Keeping sport fair and clean relies on accurate anti-doping tests. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) keeps an updated list of banned substances, ranging from performance-boosting drugs to masking agents. However, testing laboratories cannot easily spot these substances unless they know exactly what markers to look for in blood or urine after someone takes them.
This study, called ESPAMA_3, is an early-stage human pharmacology trial. It investigates how a banned substance behaves inside the human body. By measuring how quickly the body breaks the substance down and how long it stays in the system, scientists can find the best chemical 'fingerprints' to test for in real-world doping checks.
Taking part in this research helps make anti-doping tests far more reliable. This ensures that athletes who cheat are caught, while innocent athletes are protected from incorrect test results. Because this is scientific research rather than a medical treatment, it does not aim to cure an illness, but rather to improve sports integrity and public health science.
Key takeaways
- The study tests how banned sports substances break down in the body.
- The goal is to improve the accuracy of anti-doping drug tests.
- Open to healthy men aged 18 and over.
- Requires giving regular blood and urine samples under medical supervision.
- Participation is voluntary, with no direct medical benefits to your personal health.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for healthy adult men aged 18 and older. Because it is an early-stage pharmacology study, participants must be in good general health without major ongoing medical conditions.
Only men are currently being invited to take part in this specific study. You will likely be asked about your medical history, any medicines you take, and your lifestyle habits, such as smoking or alcohol intake, to make sure it is safe for you to join.
Competitive athletes should speak carefully with the study team before considering taking part, as receiving a banned substance could affect your sporting eligibility or require formal anti-doping clearance.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am a man aged 18 or older.
- I consider myself to be in good overall health.
- I do not have serious long-term medical conditions.
- I am not competing in sports that carry random anti-doping tests.
- I am available to visit the clinic for testing and monitoring.
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you will first attend a screening visit to check your health. This usually includes a physical exam, blood tests, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart. Once accepted, you will receive a strictly measured, safe dose of the study substance under direct medical supervision.
You may need to stay at the clinic for a short period or return for several follow-up visits. During these visits, the research team will regularly collect blood and urine samples to track the substance over time. The team will also monitor your vital signs and overall wellbeing. The total duration of the study typically lasts a few weeks from your initial screening to your final health check.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
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Common questions
Why is this study only for healthy men?
Early Phase 1 studies often start with a single, clearly defined group to keep the initial data clear and simple. Later studies may include women.
Are the substances safe to take?
Doses used in clinical trials are carefully calculated and given in controlled settings to ensure participant safety, though all medicines carry some risk of mild side effects.
Can competitive athletes take part?
Competitive athletes subject to drug testing should be very cautious, as receiving a banned substance could breach anti-doping rules unless special permissions are arranged.
Will I be paid for taking part?
Phase 1 trials with healthy volunteers usually provide compensation for your time and travel expenses. The study team can give you specific details.
Can I leave the study early if I change my mind?
Yes. You have the right to withdraw from the trial at any time, for any reason, without any penalty.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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