GW1516 Information

Also known as

Other names:

• GW501516¹

Brand names:

• Cardarine
• Endurobol

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval

GW1516 is not listed on the Australian Registered of Therapeutic Goods.²

World Anti-Doping Code Prohibited List 2025

GW1516 is listed on the Prohibited List under S4.4.1 Metabolic Modulators, activators of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). It is prohibited at all times and is a non-Specified substance.³

This substance meets at least two of the following three criteria, as determined by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA);

• It has the potential to enhance or does enhance sports performance
• It poses an actual or potential health risk to the athlete
• It violates the spirit of sport (as defined in The Code).

The Prohibited List is updated yearly after consultation with scientific, medical, and anti-doping experts to ensure that it aligns with the latest medical and scientific evidence and doping trends.

What is it?

GW1516 is a metabolic modulator that increases fat metabolism and improves exercise adaption. It is not available for purchase commercially.

In 2009, it was added to the WADA Prohibited List under section S.4 Hormone and Metabolic Modulators.

In 2023, there were 54 occurrences of Adverse Analytical Findings (AAFs) related to GW1516, accounting for 17% of all AAFs within section S.4.^4,5

How does it work?

GW1516 is a strong activator of the receptor PPARδ and functions as an exercise mimetic, meaning it mimics the physiological effects of exercise.

Stimulation of this receptor increases fat burning and promotes production of Type I (slow-twitch) muscle fibres, potentially offering an unfair performance advantage.⁶

Uses

GW1516 is not approved for therapeutic use in Australia or other countries. Initially developed as a candidate for the treatment of cancer, obesity and various cardiovascular conditions, clinical trials have since been abandoned due to safety concerns.

GW1516 has reportedly been used by both amateur and elite athletes for its performance enhancing effects.

Adverse Health Effects and Risk

Adverse effects associated with the prescribed use of Furosemide are:

Various adverse effects have been documented in both clinical trials and case reports. GW1516 is associated with high frequency of carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity.

The TGA lists GW1516 under Schedule 10 – Substances of such danger to health as to warrant prohibition of sale, supply and use.

What if an athlete has been prescribed GW1516 for a medical condition?

A Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) would not be granted for the use of GW1516.

Please see link for more information regarding Therapeutic Use Exemptions.