What is THG?
Tetrahydrogestrinone (THG) is a 19 nor-steroid and structurally related to gestrinone. Gestrinone is a commercialized treatment for the condition of endometriosis. No studies have been done to determine if THG can be used for the treatment of this condition.
Where did it come from?
At this point, the origins of THG are unknown. It is believed to be a chemically designed drug.
How long has it been around?
There is no scientific literature on THG. It is being considered as a new chemical entity.
Is it related to any previously known steroids?
THG is related to gestrinone.
Are there harmful side-effects to taking THG?
At present, since no known research studies have been conducted on THG in animals or humans, and there is no literature on the substance, it is not possible to predict with accuracy the effects THG would have on the body. The usual side effects seen with the use of some steroids that could also be exhibited by using THG include liver toxicity, excessive hair growth for women, and baldness and infertility for men.
Was WADA involved in its discovery?
One of the independent agencies affiliated to WADA, USADA (the national anti-doping agency in the United States) worked with the IOC/WADA accredited laboratory at UCLA in California for the detection of this new compound.
Which labs can test for it?
All 30 IOC/WADA accredited laboratories have received from the laboratory in UCLA the technology to test for this substance. Some labs have already implemented the detection method for THG, while others are in the process of implementation.
When will labs begin testing for it systematically?
Recommendations have already been issued to incorporate THG in the routine platform of doping tests.
How long are samples kept by laboratories?
Laboratories operate under the rules of the different national anti-doping agencies, international federations and the International Olympic Committee. All vary as to the minimum time required for storing samples.
What is WADA’s recommendation on how long they should be kept?
WADA is currently reviewing its laboratory standards, which will go into effect January 1, 2004, to determine what our recommendation will be regarding the minimum amount of time a sample should be kept by the laboratories. Under these standards, there will be greater harmonization of how long samples should be stored.
Can currently stored samples be tested for this substance? Who is responsible for asking that the samples be tested for THG?
It is up to the testing body (international federation or national anti-doping agency) that commissioned the test to decide whether it should analyze currently stored samples for THG. WADA is recommending that all IFs and NADOs review their processes and protocols to this effect.
Does WADA know if any international federations or national anti-doping agencies have already decided to test currently stored samples for THG?
Some IFs and NADOs have indicated that they will ask for currently stored samples to be tested, including IAAF, The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport and the National Anti-Doping Council of Portugal.
