NCAA student-athletes who inadvertently test positive for banned substances may face suspension, loss of eligibility, and damage to their athletic careers and professional reputations. At Global Sports Advocates, our sports law attorneys help athletes protect their rights as they navigate complex anti-doping rules and regulations.
The NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports (CSMAS) has established a trace-level threshold of less than 100 picograms per milliliter for GW1516 detection. This change became effective for all tests conducted on or after September 1, 2023.
About GW1516
GW1516, also known as GW501516 or Cardarine, is a common contaminant in supplements sold worldwide today. GW1516 was originally developed for treating metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. However, it was never approved for human use due to safety concerns. However, its potential performance-enhancing effects have led to its misuse in sports. GW1516/Cardarine is often present today in contaminated dietary supplements as an unlisted ingredient.
What NCAA Student-Athletes Should Know About GW1516 Testing Protocol and Its Impact on Results Management
When GW1516 metabolites are detected below the trace-level threshold of less than 100 picograms per milliliter, the results will be reported as “atypical” rather than as an adverse analytical finding. This importantly allows for an athlete to avoid a sanction. Instead, the NCAA program calls for the following:
- Continued education of the student-athlete
- Repeat testing without loss of eligibility
Samples are analyzed for the metabolites of GW1516 using the following process:
- Initial screening to detect their presence
- Confirmation testing to determine estimated concentration levels
- Classification of results based on the 100 picogram threshold
- Additional testing requirements for atypical findings
This approach by the NCAA seeks to distinguish between intentional use of GW1516 and inadvertent exposure to the common contaminant.
NCAA student-athletes can learn more by referring to the 2024-25 NCAA Drug-Testing Manual.
Recommended Precautions for NCAA Student-Athletes
At Global Sports Advocates, we have represented hundreds of athletes who have been accused of anti-doping rule violations after consuming contaminated dietary supplements. We recommend that student-athletes who use dietary supplements only use products that feature the NSF Certified for Sport logo. This designation verifies that any product with its designated “Certified for Sport” mark does not contain any of the 280 substances banned by major athletic organizations.
Additional precautions we recommend include:
- Keep detailed records of supplement use. Document all supplements you take as part of your training, including brand names, batch numbers, and purchase dates.
- Consult medical staff. Always seek guidance from team or university medical professionals before starting any new supplement.
- Know your rights and responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with NCAA anti-doping rules and the steps to take if you face a potential violation of the NCAA program.
- Act immediately if you’ve been notified of an issue. If you receive notification of an atypical or adverse finding, contact our experienced legal team to evaluate your options.
