OCB, NANBF, and IFPA Drug Testing Guidelines: Ensuring Fair Competition
Drug testing is a crucial component in ensuring eligibility at Organization of Competition Bodies (OCB), North American Natural Bodybuilding Federation (NANBF), and International Federation of Physique Athletes (IFPA) events. The screening methods employed are designed to maintain a fair and level playing field for all competitors.
If a competitor fails to pass any of the drug tests, they will either be disqualified before the event (e.g., polygraph test) or removed from the official results if discovered after the event (e.g., urine test). Competitors are prohibited from using any substances listed on the OCB, NANBF, and IFPA banned substance list during the specified timeframes outlined.
All participants in OCB, NANBF, and IFPA events are required to undergo polygraph testing to screen for banned substances. Polygraph test results from OCB or NANBF amateur shows may be valid for other events within four weeks. For OCB and NANBF events designated as IFPA pro qualifiers, urinalysis is conducted on all individuals winning pro qualifying placements. IFPA pro events also require urinalysis for all those receiving cash prizes.
These measures are in place to ensure integrity and fairness across all competitions, promoting clean and natural bodybuilding practices.
Drug Testing Policies for OCB, NANBF, and IFPA Competitors
Competitors are responsible for ensuring they undergo drug testing at events. Polygraph examiners send lists of tested contestants to the OCB, NANBF, and IFPA home offices after each event, while urinalysis results are sent directly to these offices. If any competitor who was supposed to undergo polygraph testing fails to do so, they will be disqualified and removed from the official results. Additionally, if winners at IFPA pro qualifiers fail to provide a urine sample, their eligibility to compete in the IFPA pro federation will be voided. Pro event winners failing to provide a sample will be disqualified, removed from official results, and ineligible for IFPA competition for six months.
At the promoter’s discretion, additional drug testing methods may be requested, including urinalysis, blood, voice stress, saliva, hair testing, or other detection methods. Competitors are responsible for any substances they take. A positive urine test for banned substances results in immediate disqualification and a ban from competing in OCB, NANBF, or IFPA events for the duration specified for the detected substances.
Out-of-Contest Testing for IFPA Athletes
IFPA athletes are subject to random, out-of-competition drug testing throughout the year. It is essential for IFPA members to update their contact information with the organization to ensure accurate testing coordination.
Banned Substances List
Competitors are prohibited from using substances on the OCB/NANBF/IFPA banned list, which includes a wide range of anabolic agents, stimulants, growth hormones, masking agents, and diuretics. Some key categories are:
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- Anabolic Agents: Any anabolic steroid or its metabolites, including substances like testosterone, nandrolone, and methandrostenolone, cannot be used within seven years of the contest date.
- Stimulants: Prescription weight-loss substances used for bodybuilding purposes, including amphetamines, ephedra, methamphetamine, and other stimulants, are banned if used within six months of the contest.
- Growth Hormones & Other Enhancers: Substances such as human growth hormone (HGH), somatropin, and related products must not have been used within seven years of the contest.
- Diuretics: Prescription diuretics and other substances used for masking drugs or altering test results are banned and must not have been used within three weeks of the event.
- Miscellaneous: Muscle implants and substances like Synthol are banned, as well as certain experimental products labeled for “research purposes.”
Exceptions and Clarifications
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- Substances like 7-oxo-DHEA and natural diuretics (e.g., dandelion root) are not banned.
- Athletes using medication for medical conditions that fall under the banned list may apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) to continue using the medication if it doesn’t enhance performance.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is not an exemption and does not allow eligibility for competition.
Final Reminder: Athletes are responsible for checking whether any product or substance they use falls under the banned list. If unsure, they should consult with OCB, NANBF, or IFPA drug testing officials for clarification.
By adhering to these guidelines, competitors ensure fair competition and maintain the integrity of bodybuilding events hosted by OCB, NANBF, and IFPA.