Researchers working out of the UCLA Olympic Analytical Laboratory in Los Angeles have found a new synthetic designer steroid that was earlier unknown. This steroid has been identified as tetrahydrogestrinone (THG) and the involved researchers have already initiated plans to develop an accurate urine detection test for the same.

From News-Medical.Net:

Urine samples were purposely spiked with the newly identified THG and various analyses carried out to determine how the substance could be detected. Although it is not detectable by standard doping control screening, THG was found to be easily detectable by alternate methods. Once detection methods were established, the substance was administered to a baboon both intravenously and intramuscularly, and its excreted urine collected for analysis. It was determined that THG is detectable in urine after both IV and IM administration.

The designer drug identified in this study is different from anabolic steroids previously found in athletes’ urine samples. The Food and Drug Administration has warned that its use could pose health risks, and it cannot be legally marketed without approval.

Lead researcher Catlin attributes this discovery to the provision of crucial inside information, and believes it to be a valuable contribution to doping control. He says, “Now that there’s a test for THG, anyone using it can get caught, and it’s unlikely to be found again in an athlete’s urine sample.”

It is noteworthy to note here that a spent syringe containing an undetectable anabolic steroid was anonymously provided to the USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency). The team of researchers, which was led by Don Catlin, was been able to crack the chemical formula behind this previously unknown synthetic designer steroid.

THG, which is different from other anabolic steroids that have been found previously in steroid-taking sportsmen, can be detected in urine after both IV and IM administration.