Steroids Blog on Steroids RX.com

Rashard Lewis First Steroid Positive in NBA History

2009-08-11T08:08:05Z

Orlando Magic Player Blames DHEA for Failed Steroid Test

Orlando Magic Rashard Lewis violated the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program after testing positive for “elevated testosterone levels” according to an official NBA statement. Lewis’ first violation of the league’s SPED policy (steroids, performance-enhancing drugs and masking agents) automatically resulted in a 10-game suspension. The suspension corresponds to a loss of $1.6 million of Lewis’ $18 million annual salary.

The NBA has not released specific details about the positive anti-doping test result other than stating Rashard Lewis had “elevated testosterone levels.” However, it is unlikely that the anti-doping protocol actually measured “testosterone levels” typically done through a blood test. The NBA/NBPA does not utilize blood testing as a component of their anti-doping protocols. Most likely, Lewis failed the urinary testosterone:epitestosterone ratio (T:E ratio) protocol.

The T:E ratio is a “ratio” of urinary testosterone and epitestosterone metabolites and NOT an absolute measurement of testosterone levels. A ratio that exceeds 4:1 or 6:1 depending on the sporting body is considered putative evidence of exogenous anabolic steroid use. It only measure suspect alterations in steroid metabolism. Testosterone levels can be low or normal even when the T:E ratio is excessive.

Rashard Lewis blamed the positive steroid test on his inadvertent use of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) that was present in a smoothie powder he consumed.

"First and foremost I take full responsibility for the situation and accept the corresponding penalty,” said Lewis. “Toward the end of the season, I took an over-the-counter supplement which at the time I did not realize included a substance banned by the NBA.”

Lewis admitted using dietary supplements throughout his career to increase his energy levels and to help him gain weight.

"I've taken over-the-counter supplements throughout my career," Lewis said. "It's a long season and I take stuff you get from health stores -- things to keep your immune system up, help your energy level, stuff like that. Early in my career, I was real thin and drank the shakes to try to put on weight."

Most experts consider it unlikely that DHEA would cause a positive T:E ratio result. DHEA is converted to testosterone at a rate of less than 1.5%. Most studies have not shown an elevated T:E ratio from low to moderate DHEA supplementation that would be considered a violation under the NBA/NBPA anti-drug program.

It is nonetheless plausible that DHEA is the culprit in Rashard Lewis’ positive steroid test. A 1999 study entitled “Oral Dehydroepiandrosterone Supplementation Can Increase the Testosterone/Epitestosterone Ratio” provides support for Lewis’ claim. Drug testing expert Larry Bowers reported that one of four subjects had a dose-dependent increase in the T:E ratio in excess of 6:1 after consuming 50mg, 100mg and 150mg of DHEA.

"Look at me, I'm still skinny as hell. Does it look like I take steroids?," Lewis asked using his lack of a bodybuilder’s physique as proof of his innocence.

The NBA/NBPA SPED policy considers DHEA a prohibited steroid no different than Dianabol, Anadrol, or Deca Durabolin. The NBA is not alone. Most other sporting leagues, including all sports that have adopted the WADA Anti-Doping Code, also consider DHEA a prohibited steroid.

DHEA is perfectly legal for consumers in the United States to purchase and consume as a dietary supplement. DHEA is explicitly exempted from legally being classified as an anabolic steroid under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act.

The legal status of DHEA and other performance-enhancing substances as a “dietary supplements” is confusing to many athletes who are unable to reconcile this with “legal” supplements being “prohibited” in sports.

Travis Tygart of the United States Anti-Doping Agency believes the solution is to criminalize all dietary supplements that are banned in sports. In other words, all substances prohibited in sports should also be prohibited as dietary supplements under the criminal justice system to eliminate any confusion among athletes.

Sources

“Rashard Lewis suspended for violating Anti-Drug Program,” August 6, 2009

“Rashard Lewis: "I'm skinny as hell. Does it look like I take steroids?,” August 7, 2009

“Oral Dehydroepiandrosterone Supplementation Can Increase the Testosterone/Epitestosterone Ratio,” Clinical Chemistry. 1999;45:295-297

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

BALCO Investigator Moving from Steroids in Baseball to Steroids in Supplements

2009-07-27T09:07:40Z

Jeff Novitzky Sets His Sights on the Supplement Industry

Jeff Novitzky, the chief investigator in the BALCO steroid scandal, has turned his attention from finding anabolic steroid in professional sports such as baseball to finding steroids in dietary supplements sold by sports nutrition companies. Novitzky led the FDA raid of a Max Muscle Store in the Castro section of San Francisco, American Cellular Labs (ACL) and a business believed to be associated with ACL identified as WVM Global Incorporated. The Pacifica home of the Maurice Sandoval, identified as the CEO of ACL, was also covered by the search warrant.

The FDA targeted the ACL products identified as “Tren Xtreme” and “Mass Xtreme”. Jeff Novitzky alleged in an affidavit that the listed ingredients contained in these products met current definition of "anabolic steroid" under federal law and were sold as misbranded and unapproved new drugs. Therefore, distribution of "Tren Xtreme" and "Mass Xtreme" violated the Controlled Substance Act and numerous sections of the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA).

Nvitzky and the FDA specifically targeted the ingredients openly listed on the label of Tren Xtreme and Mass Xtreme.

"Tren" in “Tren Xtreme” is also known by the following chemical names: 19-Norandrosta-4,9-diene-3,17-dione and Estra-4,9-diene-3,17-dione

Don Catlin, the infamous steroid hunter who runs the Anti-Doping Research lab, has previously stated that “tren” was not a dietary supplement at all but instead “masqueraded as a supplement”.

William Llewellyn, author of the authoritative anabolic steroid reference manual “Anabolics“, reported that there is no known source for “tren” in nature; this was one of the required criteria to qualify as a dietary supplement under the guidelines of the Dietary Supplement Health & Education Act (DSHEA). “I have to agree with Don Catlin’s assessment that “tren” is not a supplement, but a synthetic designer steroid,” stated Llewellyn. “Since the designer steroid “tren” is not natural, it is considered a misbranded drug under federal law.”

“Madol” in “Mass Xtreme” is also known by the following synonyms: desoxymethyltestosterone, DMT and 17a-Methyl-etioallocholan-2-ene-17b-ol.

Supplement companies have claimed that DMT was a naturally-occurring pheromone in elephant’s urine, therefore it was legal to sell as a dietary supplement under DSHEA.

Patrick Arnold, most recently the chemist at Erogpharm and Proviant Technologies, disputes this claim. Arnold reports that Madol is a misbranded drug since it is not naturally occurring in nature. “If you take the 17alpha-methyl group off of DMT then you have the elephant pheromone,” stated Arnold in a Twitter message. “But DMT itself is not natural.”

It is important to note that “DMT” and “tren” were NOT legally defined as an “anabolic steroid” under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 1990 and 2004. Most supplement industry experts disagree with Jeff Novitzky’s assertion that “tren” or “Madol” can currently be legally classified as a controlled substance (anabolic steroid).

At the same time, they concede that the listed ingredients in ACL Tren Xtreme and Mass Xtreme are misbranded and/or unapproved new drugs. “Novitzky claim is that "tren" and "madol" should be considered classified as controlled right now, TODAY,” reacted Patrick Arnold on Twitter. “That is never gonna stand up.”

Sources

“Former IRS agent who hunted steroid distributors strikes again at home of American Cellular Labs CEO,” July 24, 2009

“Two Dietary Supplements Said to Contain Steroids,” July 23, 2009

“Steroid raid on Castro district store,” July 23, 2009

“War on Steroids Attacks Supplement Industry,” March 19, 2009

Patrick Arnold on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/pa1ad

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Justice Capriciously and Arbitrarily Applied in Texas Steroid Bust

2009-07-06T08:07:44Z

Defendant Facing 5 Years in Prison Detained, Defendant Facing 500 Years in Prison Released

Bruce Zaccaria was detained without bail for his role in the recent Texas steroid bust that resulted in the indictment of dozens of individuals on state and federal felony charges. Zaccaria was not considered a flight risk but current U.S. bail law allows for pre-trial detention if the defendant is dangerous to the community.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Calvin Botley ruled that Zaccaria is a “danger to the community” and that there was nothing that could possibly protect the community from this dangerous person if he were released on bail. The purpose of the bail law reform was to protect the community from murderers, terrorists, rapists, and other violent criminals; individuals who use dangerous firearms and destructive devices to commit felonies; and, consistent with contemporary drug war hysteria, drug dealers who face more than 10 years in prison if convicted.

Bruce Zaccaria has not been charged with any of the aforementioned crimes. Zaccaria was charged with one count of “conspiracy to manufacture/possess with intent to distribute anabolic steroids” which only carries maximum penalty of up to 5 years in prison.

The magistrate judge’s sole stated reason for throwing Zaccaria in jail without bail was the alleged purchase and distribution of 250 vials of anabolic steroids to bodybuilders who were members of a Houston-area 24 Hour Fitness. Clearly, having bodybuilders using steroids a local gym to increase muscle mass and improve their physical appearance is one of the most dangerous threats facing our society. If the magistrate judge felt that Zaccaria was a danger to the community, imagine how concerned he must have been for the safety of gym members at 24 Hour Fitness. Houston-area residents must be thrilled to learn that 24 Hour Fitness is safe from Bruce Zaccaria.

R. Trent Gaither, Zaccaria’s defense attorney, suggests that the government may have arbitrarily and capriciously detained Zaccaria while inexplicably releasing most of his co-defendants facing similar, multiple or much more serious charges, including those who sold more dangerous drugs such as MDMA and hydrocodone.

Gaither does not understand how his client can be detained since he represents a “danger to the community” yet the alleged ringleader of the conspiracy, Brock Falkenhagen, has been released on a $75,000 unsecured bond. Falkenhagen was charged with 44 counts and faces approximately 500 years in prison if convicted on all charges which involve not only anabolic steroids, but also human growth hormone, MDMA (ecstasy), and hydrocodone.

“Upon what theory is lodged and explained the notion that the alleged kingpin of the organization, who arguably is subject to about 500 years in prison, less dangerous than one whose maximum exposure is 5 years?” posited Gaither in court documents. “This is, of course, not limited to just Falkenhagen. One can go down the list and easily come to the Alice in Wonderland-ish conclusion that the defendant who has among the least exposure is somehow considered by the government to be the most dangerous, and the individual who has, under the government theory, demonstrated his capacity for all kinds of evil doings, yet is apparently not all that dangerous.”

Bruce Zaccaria was one of four defendants charged with a single count of “conspiracy to manufacture/possess with intent to distribute anabolic steroids” in the 46 count Falkenhagen indictment. The other three co-defendants faced identical steroid-related charges but were quickly released on either $50,000 or $75,000 unsecured bond. They remain free while awaiting trial.

Bruce Zaccaria’s pre-trial detention (based on “danger to community” concerns) appears even more arbitrary and capricious when compared to a similarly charged co-defendant who was immediately released on a $50,000 unsecured bond despite purported evidence of “large quantities of different types of anabolic steroids” in his possession when he was arrested. Prosecutors subsequently offered this as proof that “he had not discontinued his use of illegal drugs between the “end” of the charged conspiracy period and his recent arrest”.

In contrast, Zaccaria was not involved with any illegal drugs since the conclusion of the conspiracy period in September 2007. Nonetheless, Zaccaria was considered a “danger to the community” but his fellow co-defendant was not. U.S. District Judge Lynn Hughes even saw it reasonable to allow the temporary return of his passport so he could get married and honeymoon in the Caribbean this summer.

Bruce Zaccaria will remain detained at the Joe Corley Detention Facility while most of the co-defendants will be able to celebrate (and even party in the Caribbean) over the Fourth of July weekend. The disparity in pre-trial treatment exists even thought the three co-defendants face the identical charge of “conspiracy to manufacture/possess with intent to distribute anabolic steroids” in the same superceding indictment to be tried in the same Houston federal courthouse.

Trent Gaither, Zaccaria’s attorney, was “mystified” by the detention order affecting his client especially when the ringleader, and presumably the most dangerous threat to the community based on the magistrate judges’ rationale, was granted bail

Gaither acknowledged that Zaccaria’s criminal history included two DUI convictions in 2008. Gaither noted that Magistrate Botley signaled they would not be a determining factor in the detention. Even as a consideration, Zaccaria’s past problems with alcohol “do not rise to the level of convincing evidence that he is a danger”. Zaccaria’s pre-trial detention and “danger to society” was solely based upon his purchasing and distribution of anabolic steroids at a local gym.

Trent Gaither, on behalf of his clients, has filed a motion requesting the Court rescrind the detention order and release Zaccaria on unsecured bond.

Sources

United States of America vs.Bruce D. Zaccaria: Zaccaria’s Motion to Reconsider, Rescind Detention Order, and Order Pretrial Release filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas Houston Division on June 23, 2009.

United States of America vs.Bruce D. Zaccaria: Order of Detention Pending Trial filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas Houston Division on June 3, 2009.

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Phillies J.C. Romero Allegedly Assaults Fan After Being Taunted About Steroids

2009-07-01T09:07:10Z

Steroid Stigma Bad Enough Without Romero Unfairly Adding to It

Philadelphia Phillies reliever J.C. Romero has been accused of assaulting a Tampa Bay Rays fan after a game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The fan, Robert Eaton, claims that he was seeking autographs from Romero and a couple of Phillies players as they were leaving the field; the players reportedly did not honor Eaton’s request for autographs. Eaton told the St. Petersburg Times that he started taunting Romero in response with something to the effect of, “How about you get me some juice?" The comments were in reference to Romero’s recent 50 game suspension after testing positive for the anabolic steroid androstenedione.

"The player ignored him and kept on going," according to St. Petersburg police spokesman George Kajtsa. "So the victim starts yelling expletives and also making references to some things I can't mention because it's under investigation. That apparently angered the player, who then returned. The two had a shouting match and at one point the player hit him with an open hand - or he slapped him on his neck."

"He reared back and kinda grazed my chin and grabbed me by the neck and threw me back," Eaton told the newspaper. "I was in shock."

Robert Eaton filed a complaint with the St. Petersburg Police Department alleging simple battery by J.C. Romero. The complaint is being reviewed by the Pinellas-Pasco State Attorney's Office to determine whether charges will be filed against Romero. St. Petersburg police spokesman George Kajtsa believes it is unlikely given the more pressing concerns by the State Attorney’s Office.

J.C. Romero’s altercation nonetheless reinforces the stereotypes associated with steroid use. Yelling expletives, punching, pushing, and/or choking a fan is consistent with the media-created phenomena of “roid rage”. Romero’s behavior unfairly gives steroid users a bad name which is certainly not needed given the societal stigma associated with steroids.

The association between Romero’s behavior and anabolic steroids is unfair because Romero most likely is not using steroids after returning from a 50-game ban that resulted from a positive steroid test result. It is also very plausible that Romero didn’t really use steroids when he tested positive in the incident that resulted in his ban.

J.C. Romero most likely was banned as the result of a false positive from consuming the dietary supplement 6-OXO manufactured by Ergopharm. A drug-tested athlete consuming 6-OXO would test positive for the rececently reclassified anabolic steroid androstenedione. The metabolites for 6-OXO and androstenedione are the same.

J.C. Romero and his infamous anti-doping attorneys Howard Jacobs and David Cornwall could have had his suspension and salary forfeiture overturned by using an easily verifiable “false positive” defense. Inexplicably, they used a “contaminated supplement” defense which would never have overturned the suspension due to the MLB’s “strict liability policy”.

Romero and his legal team went out of their way to find “trace contaminants” of androstenedione in quantities so infinitesimally small that they would have no physiologic effect. The amount of contaminants would be right at the limit of pharmaceutical disclosure of 0.1% or 100 micrograms per capsule. It is unknown whether this alone could even trigger a positive androstenedione test result.

J.C. Romero most certainly is not currently using anabolic steroids immediately upon return from his 50-game suspension. It is unlikely that Romero used anabolic steroids at the time he tested positive, was suspended, and forfeited over $1 million in salary. Even if 6-OXO was contaminated with only a few micrograms of androstenedione, it is unlikely that such tiny amounts of a prohormone would have caused Romero to fail a steroid test. It is obvious that a prohormone whose effective dosage was several hundred milligrams would have any physiologic impact whatsoever at 1/1,000th the effective dosage of androstenedione.

J.C. Romero’s alleged assaultive behavior is disappointing. However, suggestions that the behavior is attributable to “roid rage” and/or a history of steroid use are unfair.

Sources

“Romero may face battery charge,” June 29, 2009

“Prosecutors reviewing man's complaint against Phillies' Romero,” June 29, 2009

“Phillies confirm player involved in confrontation with fan in Tampa,” June 27, 2009

“Fan says Phillies pitcher assaulted him over steroids remark,” June 27, 2009

“Baseball Player JC Romero Files Frivolous Lawsuit Against Patrick Arnold Supplement Companies,” April 28, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Texas Rangers Marlon Byrd Ignores Steroid Stigma to Work with Victor Conte

2009-06-26T07:06:19Z

The Man with a Plan Focused on Legal Performance Enhancement in BALCO Aftermath

Texas Rangers outfielder Marlon Byrd has acknowledged using dietary supplements produced by Scientific Nutrition for Advanced Conditioning (SNAC). SNAC System is the supplement company owned by Victor Conte, the former mastermind behind the BALCO steroid scandal. While Conte has put the BALCO experience behind him to focus on the formulation of legal performance-enhancing supplements, his detractors have refused to allow him to escape the dreaded steroid stigma.

Marlon Byrd has been widely criticized by numerous sports writers for associating with Victor Conte. Byrd is nonetheless proud of his association and wanted to be listed as a “SNAC Athlete” on the SNAC website. He has been pleased with the results of using SNAC's Proglycosyn, Physiobalm, Aerobitine, Vitalyze and ZMA products during the past 18 months.

"People are going to question it. Of course, they are," Byrd told the Dallas Morning News. "His supplements work for me. The things that I'm taking are subtle supplementsto play the game. It's weird to say, but it's safer, in my opinion.”

The implication behind the criticisms is that Victor Conte can not be trusted. The argument is that since he produced undetectable steroids to help athletes cheat during the BALCO era, he would be more likely to introduce undetectable steroids into SNAC supplements. Such suggestions seem unfounded especially given the extra scrutiny facing Conte; Conte reports being extra vigilant with all SNAC products; SNAC supplements are produced in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) manufacturing facilities.

The irony behind the stigmatization and ostracism of Victor Conte is that Conte has engaged in the most open and honest dialogue regarding the use of performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) in professional sports of any participant associated with the BALCO scandal. It is no surprise that Marlon Byrd has placed his trust in someone who has approached performance enhancement so honestly. However, Byrd’s courage to disregard the stigma brought about by the contemporary steroid hysteria is, although refreshing, exceedingly uncommon.

"I've never been labeled a cheater. I know Victor has.” Byrd explained to the Dallas Morning News. “If I was doing something wrong, do you think I would have come out with it? I'm being honest."

Marlon Byrd opposed general manager Jon Daniels’ supplement recommendations for Texas Ranger players. The official team policy discourages the use of all supplements except for the few NSF certified and approved products. Daniels plans to sit down and discuss Byrd’s relationship with Victor Conte. But Daniels conceded that "Marlon's a veteran player who is a grown man and can make his own choices.”

“I don’t know if people are blackballing him,” Byrd told Steve Henson of Yahoo! Sport. “I don’t know how they will look at me. I’m not worried about it. I don’t care.”

Victor Conte’s past experience in providing illegal performance enhancing drugs to elite athletes like Marion Jones, Tim Montgomery, Dwain Chambers and Kelli White have made him a controversial figure. However, Conte also revealed that some athletes consume legal dietary supplements for many of the same reasons other athletes use anabolic steroids. These inconvenient truths that expose the hypocrisy behind the war on steroids make it difficult for Conte to escape the controversial shadow of BALCO.

“Where I drew the parallel between my legal products and anabolic steroids is that both are really about recovery, accelerating healing and tissue repair,” Conte explained in an interview with Yahoo! Sport. “What these products do, similar to what steroids do, is enable an athlete to recover quicker to do a deeper training load.

“You’re not going to get the type of benefit you would from anabolic steroids from any over-the-counter supplement. But can you get 25 percent of that effect with sophisticated nutritional support programs? Yes, you can.”

Marlon Byrd’s honesty about his use of dietary supplements, much like Victor Conte’s honesty about the reality of legal and illegal PED use in professional sports, should be cause for celebration. Regrettably, honesty is not always welcome. Sometimes the truth is too controversial.

Sources

“Byrd takes Conte’s supplements without apology,” June 24, 2009

“Marlon Byrd taking big risk working with Victor Conte,” June 25, 2009

“Rangers' Byrd stands by his decision about supplements,” June 26, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Top Supplement Attorneys Predict Increased Regulatory Environment for the Supplement Industry

2009-06-19T09:06:01Z

Collins McDonald Gann Law Firm Gives Presentation at International Society for Sport Nutrition Conference

Top supplement industry attorneys are predicting increased regulation for the supplement industry within the next 4-8 years Rick Collins and Alan Feldstein, representing the law firm Collins, McDonald and Gann, identified four potential “minefields” facing supplement companies in a presentation entitled “Supplements, Science, and the Politics of New Washington” given at the International Society of Sports Nutrition Conference (ISSN) in New Orleans on June 15, 2009.

The tone of the presentation was “cautionary but not pessimistic” as Collins and Feldstein identified the risks facing the supplement industry in general but especially the sports nutrition segment. These risks include the (1) pro-regulatory philosophy of FDA and FTC; (2) state attorney generals actions on behalf of citizens; (3) class action lawsuits; and (4) profit-motivated adulteration.

The FDA and FTC will become increasing pro-regulation thanks to new appointments according to Collins and Feldstein. Key nominations by the Obama administration include Dr. Margaret Hamburg and Dr. Joshua Sharfstein who have been confirmed as the new FDA commissioner and FDA principal deputy commissioner, respectively. Of particular interest to the supplement industry is Dr. Sharfstein’s role as a former advisor to the anti-supplement Congressman Henry Waxman. Furthermore, David Vladeck, the new FTC Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, has long been critical of supplement industry and misleading claims during his 30 years working with the Public Citizen Litigation Group.

Secondly, state attorney generals are increasingly likely to sue supplement companies under consumer protection statutes. Local district attorneys (particularly in California) are participating too.

Also, there has been a growing trend towards plaintiffs filing class action lawsuits targeting “false marketing claims” and “false advertising claims” made by supplement companies. The law firm Call, Jensen & Ferrell is representing plaintiffs in a multi-million dollar class action lawsuit against Musclemeds for violating California Consumer Legal Remedies Act. A California court has appointed the firms of Robinson, Calcagnie & Robinson and Call, Jensen & Ferrell to represent plaintiffs in a $100 million class action lawsuit against BSN. The law offices of Juroviesky and Ricci and the law offices of Wood and Wood have each filed a class action lawsuits against Iovate Health Sciences and MuscleTech on behalf of plaintiffs in Ontario (Canada) and Tennessee, respectively.

Lastly, the FDA is going after supplement companies whose names/brands appear on the product for “profit motivated adulteration” even if the raw material supplier(s) or the manufacturer was responsible for the adulteration.

The reports of supplement tainted with Viagra, weight loss supplements spiked with pharmaceutical weight loss drugs, aromatase inhibitor products contaminated with androstenedione, and seizures and forfeitures involving unapproved new dietary ingredients (NDIs) increase the likelihood that the supplement industry will be more aggressively regulated.

Collins and Feldstein told researchers and scientists at the ISSN conference that the increased regulatory environment was an excellent opportunity for them to step up to the plate with clinical studies that would withstand scientific scrutiny. The demand for good researchers and good science in the supplement industry has become greater than ever.

But if prescription and/or illegal drugs to appear in supplements (even in trace amounts with no physiologic effects) or products appear that do not meet the definition of a dietary supplement or NDI e.g. methylated prohormone, then the FDA will step in aggressively with more stringent regulations and restrictions.

Source

“2009 International Society of Sports Nutrition Conference,” June 14-16, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.steroidsrx.com

California Doctor Who Prescribed Steroids and HGH to Bodybuilders and Athletes Pleads Guilty

2009-06-11T08:06:35Z

Dr. Ramon Scruggs Admitted Prescribing Drugs for Performance Enhancement

Ramon Scruggs, M.D. pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids and import human growth hormone into the United States from China and one count of money laundering on June 1, 2009. Scruggs admitted to prescribing anabolic steroids and HGH “outside the usual course of professional practice” at his anti-aging clinic called New Hope Health Center in California. Scruggs acknowledged he prescribed the medications to athletes and bodybuilders for performance enhancing purposes and not legitimate therapeutic purposes.

Ramon Scruggs, M.D. openly worked with bodybuilders visiting his New Hope Med website as early as 1999; he felt that the best way for a physician to effectively supervise the health of a steroid-using bodybuilder was to medically monitor their steroid use and assure that bodybuilders avoided potentially dangerous black market sources of anabolic steroids. At the time, Dr. Scruggs felt that he was doing the right thing by monitoring and prescribing steroids to bodybuilders even if it was in violation of the law.

“I feel very comfortable in the choices I’ve made and the reason for those choices. I know that I’m helping people far more than I’m hurting them,” Scruggs said in an interview with Jason Mueller of Anabolic Extreme. “If you want to know the truth, I don’t like taking 22 or 23 year-old and putting them on steroids, it makes me nervous. Yet, I’d rather have them come to me and manage their steroid use, and then have them do it on their own.”

Dr. Scruggs liberally prescribed steroids to bodybuilders and athletes whose testosterone levels were considered normal. He justification his prescription policy by criticizing the established normal range accepted by the medical community.

“I’ll admit to you that as I do this, my criteria have relaxed. Before I would only do this with athletes or with ordinary citizens if they had a limitation, if they were hypogonadal, if they were on the low side of normal on their blood work,” explained Scruggs. “I’ve gradually relaxed that to include people who would be quote unquote normal. You’ve got to realize that virtually everything hormonal is considered normal by the establishment. They have virtually no ability to look at, let’s say the estrogen/progesterone levels for a woman, and testosterone for men and women, and say anything much about them at all because everybody from age 12 to age 90 is considered normal.”

Ramon Scruggs had already faced the consequences of his decision to liberally prescribe steroids to bodybuilders. In June 2004, the State of California formally accused Dr. Scruggs of prescribing steroids and ancillary medications without justification over the internet to patients who he did not physically examine. He settled his case with the State of California in August 2006. In the settlement, Scruggs agreed the state could prove the charges and accepted a $4,800 fine and 35 months of probation: during that time he is required to have an outside monitor, take various courses and cease prescribing over the Internet. The settlement was agreed to in August 2006 and took effect in March 2007.

Dr. Scruggs probably thought that his legal troubles were behind him. But in the fall of 2007, the Albany County District Attorney’s Office, which led the investigation of the steroid scandal involving Signature Pharmacy, leaked information that Dr. Scruggs prescribed steroids to professional baseball players Troy Glaus and Scott Schoeneweis playing for the Anaheim Angels in 2003 and 2004. As a result of the leak, federal prosecutors decided to re-open the case of anti-aging doctor Ramon Scruggs in an effort to find more baseball players who have used anabolic steroids.

Glaus and Schoeneweis as well as catcher Todd Greene and pitcher Ismael Valdez were interviewed by federal agents investigating Scruggs. Glaus and Greene testified at the grand jury that indicted Dr. Scruggs. The New York Times reported that Glaus and Greene told the grand jury that Mike Nicotera and Gene Casaleggio, senior partners for the Sparta Group, referred them Dr. Scruggs.

Ramon Scruggs is scheduled for sentencing on September 14, 2009 by U.S. District Judge James Ware. He faces up to 25 years imprisonment and a $750,000 fine.

Ramon Scruggs, M.D. has and continues to pay a substantial penalty for prescribing steroids and HGH to bodybuilders and athletes, including a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing in October 2005.

“I don’t have any emotional reserve left,” Dr. Scruggs told Michael Schmidt of the New York Times. “I have been fighting this for 10 years. It has destroyed myself, my life and my family. If I was smart I would be on a beach in Manawatu.”

Sources

“Doctor with ties to ex-Angels pleads guilty in steroids case,” June 3, 2009

“Southern California Doctor Pleads Guilty to Steroid Distribution, HGH Importation, and Money Laundering,” June 2, 2009

“Inside a Tempting World of Easy Steroids,” April 11, 2009

“Questions and Answers With Ramon Scruggs,” April 11, 2009

”Inquiry Into Doctor May Link Players to Drugs,” March 12, 2008

“Interview with Dr. Ramon Scruggs,” April 1999

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Major Texas Drug Bust Reportedly Revolves Around Anabolic Steroids and Personal Trainers

2009-05-31T08:05:42Z

Officials Have Been Slow to Release Details About Actual Scope
of Steroid Distribution

The major Fort Bend County drug investigation codenamed Operation “Farmacia de Juicy Phruit” was characterized as primarily an anabolic steroid bust that revolved around personal trainers who sold steroids to their clients and bodybuilders. Law enforcement officials from various local and federal agencies repeatedly emphasized the central importance of anabolic steroids during the May 27, 2009 press conference announcing the arrest of 73 defendants who were presumably bodybuilders and personal trainers; 51 defendants indicted by a Fort Bend County grand jury and 22 defendants indicted by a federal grand jury.

“The majority of this thing is built around body trainers at fitness centers,” said Fort Bend County Sheriff Milton Wright. “Their livelihood is getting customers they can develop physically - legally or illegally. It doesn’t matter in their eyes, as long as they get the job done.”

The significance of the recreational “party” drugs such as Oxycontin and Xanax uncovered during the investigation was minimized. They were described as drugs incidental to steroid use by bodybuilders. “There’s been other offshoots from it because sometimes the steroids cause severe muscle pain and that leads to painkillers,” according to Sheriff Wright.

The steroid bust allegedly involved “hundreds of thousands of dosage units of anabolic steroids, human growth hormones, MDMA (ecstasy) and controlled pharmaceutical substances”; however, officials refused to offer a breakdown of the relative quantity of each class of drug involved in the investigation. The amount of steroids involved versus amounts of other drugs were not reported.

Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Johnson reported that the investigation originated with Charles “Brock” Falkenhagen in late 2006. Johnson also stated that Falkenhagen was named on each of the 22 federal indictments. The unsealed version of the 46-count Falkenhagen indictment had the 22 names of his co-defendants redacted.

The Falkenhagen indictment provides some insight into the nature of the charges facing the defendants in the Fort Bend County bust. A review of the indictment revealed that ONLY ONE count out of the 46-counts involved anabolic steroids.

There were 4 counts involving Oxycontin, 4 counts involving MDMA (escstasy), 9 counts involving smuggling human growth hormone (HGH); 28 counts involving money laundering related to HGH. The money trail also suggests that HGH may have accounted for most of the proceeds. The single steroid-related charge involved the “conspiracy to manufacture/possess with the intent to distribute (anabolic steroids)”.

The Falkenhagen indictment suggests that the importance of anabolic steroids in this bust may have been considerably overstated, at least in the federal cases. The quantity of steroids involved may well have been less than the press was led to believe during the announcement of the operation.

Officials acknowledged that no professional athletes were involved or implicated in the so-called steroid bust. The defendants in the case were not accused of selling steroids (or any other drug) to any minors.

In the absence of steroids sales to pro athletes or high school students, officials instead trumpeted the imaginary risks of steroids.

DEA Special Agent Zoran Yankovich warned journalists about the unreported dangers of anabolic steroids. Yankovich imagined that steroids lead to “broken families, broken homes and people who are hurt [by steroids] that we never know about.”

Fort Bend County Sheriff Lt. Glen Dening asserted that, even in the absence of any evidence of steroid sales involving high school students during the current investigation, the steroid dealers arrested would have probably sold steroids to minors - eventually.

“They (suspects) work out at all the local gyms in Fort Bend County, so, of course, the high school students have access to those gyms. So, inevitably, it’s going to happen. They’d end up customers of these steroid dealers,” Lt. Dening predicted.

At least one journalist was baffled during the press conference as to why most of the defendants who were arrested were relatively “skinny” and did not appear to lift weights much less use steroids. FDA Agent Tommy Hennesy suggested that underdosed or bogus steroid products from underground lab as an explanation. This of course begs the question: How many of the defendants were in fact personal trainers and/or recreational bodybuilders? Were most of the defendants really involved in bodybuilding and fitness?

It remains to be seen how big a factor steroids were in the so-called major steroid bust in Texas. The nature of the arrest warrants handed down by the Fort Bend County District Attorney may be completely different than the indictments issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Texas.

Sources

“Fort Bend holds suspects in alleged steroid ring,” May 29, 2009

“Bodybuilders, Personal Trainers and Gym Owner Arrested in Texas Steroid Bust,” May 27, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Florida Steroid Dealer Eager to Talk About Steroid Sales to Professional Athletes

2009-05-30T08:05:27Z

Richard Thomas Uses Arrest As An Opportunity to Capture National Spotlight

Richard “Andy” Thomas was extremely cooperative and friendly with undercover narcotics detectives as he was arrested along with his wife on various charges related to the distribution of anabolic steroids. Agents with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raided the Lakeland Florida home of Richard and Sandra Thomas and recovered approximately $200,000 worth of anabolic steroids and ancillary drugs. Afterwards, Thomas bragged about the scope of his steroid distribution stating that he was currently the largest steroid dealer in Central Florida and, at one time during the past decade, the entire State of Florida. Such boastful and incriminating statements are highly unusual among steroid dealers when they are arrested. Most dealers are not as forthcoming with information about their illegal activities.

Richard Thomas, perhaps seeing his arrest as an opportunity to capture the national spotlight, continued talking to detectives about his illegal steroid business, specifically about customers who played professional baseball, hockey and football. The naming of pro athletes using steroids is a surefire method of gaining the full attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and sportswriters. Consequently, Thomas’s claim that he sold steroids to members of the Washington Capitals hockey team and Washington Nationals baseball team had its desired effect.

"He claimed to have sold drugs to professional sports people," Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd told A.J. Perez of USA Today during a phone interview. "He said, 'You pick the sport and I sold it to them.' We pressed him further and he said he sold steroids to the Washington Capitals and the Nationals."

Thomas started using anabolic steroids to become a celebrity like his hero Arnold Schwarzenegger. This plan may not have materialized as anticipated but Thomas seems willing to use the media and criminal justice system to gain a certain measure of fame (or infamy) as a dealer for pro athletes. The self-aggrandizing Polk County Sheriff Judd seemed happy to oblige by holding a national press conference to share the admittedly unsubstantiated allegations.

Thomas stopped talking to detectives shortly after a public defender was appointed to represent him. However, the silence was short-lived. Thomas agreed to a jailhouse interview with the New York Daily News during which he promised to share details of a “huge story” once he was released from jail. Thomas is being held in Polk County Jail on a $425,000 bond.

There is widespread skepticism from all sides regarding the veracity of Thomas’ claims. The Washington Capitals and Washington Nationals have predictably denied the allegation citing their perfect record of steroid testing.

“We have no reason to believe there is any merit to this story, but the National Hockey League and the Washington Capitals take all such allegations seriously,” responded the Capitals in an official statement. “Capitals players have fully participated in the NHL’s random drug testing program, and at no point has a Capitals player tested positive.”

“I don't have any particular concerns, because as you've seen in recent times, baseball has the most stringent testing for performance-enhancing drugs,” Nationals team president Stan Kasten said in response to the allegations. “Players run afoul of rules, they're caught, and they're disciplined."

Sheriff Judd admits that the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has no information to corroborate the claims made by Thomas. Thomas’ computer and hard drive were seized by investigators during the raid but their contents have not been analyzed. It is likely that the names of several customers could be uncovered during forensic analysis of the hard drive. It is unknown whether the names of professional athletes will be discovered. Nonetheless, Judd wants to believe Thomas.

“At this point in time, we have no corroboration about what he said about professional athletes, but he has two things that give him credibility,” Judd rationalized. “Number one, he had every imaginable steroid you can get in his house. Number two, why pick two teams that are obscure in our area? Why not say the Orlando Magic, Tampa Bay Rays or the Florida Panthers, or the New York Yankees or the Detroit Tigers, who have spring training facilities in our area?”

Richard Thomas and Sandra Thomas have both been charged with ten counts of “possession of anabolic steroids with intent to sell or distribute”; ten counts of “importation of anabolic steroids into the State of Florida”; one count of “maintaining a dwelling for drug sales”; and one count of “possession of a firearm in commission of a felony.” Sandra Thomas has been released after posting a $215,000 bond; Richard Thomas remains in Polk County.

Sources

“MLB, NHL investigating steroids claims,” May 28, 2009

“Steroid suspect Richard Thomas juiced to 'be like' Arnold Schwarzenegger,” May 28, 2009

“Kasten: 'I Don't Have Any Particular Concerns',” May 27, 2009

“D.C. teams looking into statements made in Polk steroids case,” May 27, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Former Boston Red Sox Lou Merloni Compares Steroid Education to Sex Education

2009-05-20T08:05:08Z

Abstinence Approach Preferred Over Honest Approach for Sex and Steroids

Former Boston Red Sox player Lou Merloni recently described a meeting during Red Sox spring training when a physician advised baseball players how to properly use anabolic steroids while minimizing the side effects. The doctor made a distinction between steroid use and abuse with a harm reduction approach to steroid education. Merloni emphasized that the physician was not advocating or endorsing steroid use but simply explaining how to minimize harm from the performance-enhancing drugs. The former Red Sox infielder compared the steroid education lecture to high school sex education.

"It was like teaching your teenage daughter about sex education," Lou Merloni told the Boston Globe. "The organization acknowledged that there were likely players using steroids, and basically, 'If you're going to use them, this is how you use them so you don't abuse them.'"

The alleged meeting occurred when Lou Merloni was still an active player with the Red Sox. Merloni and his teammates were expecting the usual lecture demonizing anabolic steroids where the doctor would overstate and exaggerate the adverse side effects of steroids.

“I'm sitting in the meeting. There's a doctor up there and he's talking about steroids, and everyone was like, 'Here we go, we're going to sit here and get the whole thing: They're bad for you,'” according to Merloni. But the MLB players were shocked when the doctor proceeded with an open and honest discussion of steroids emphasizing harm reduction.

"If you're going to take steroids, one cycle won't hurt you; abusing steroids it will.' He sat there for one hour and told us how to properly use steroids while I'm with the Boston Red Sox, sitting there with the rest of the organization, and after this I said, 'What the heck was that?' And everybody on the team was like, 'What was that?' And the response we got was, 'Well, we know guys are taking it, so we want to make sure they're taking it the right way.'"

Merloni believed that the doctor was hired by the Red Sox organization and not the MLB Players’ Association (MLBPA). Former Red Sox general manager Dan Duquette strongly denied the allegation.

“It’s ridiculous. It’s totally unfounded,” said Duquette. “Who was the doctor? Tell me who the doctor is? If there was such a doctor he wasn’t in the employ of the Red Sox. We brought in doctors to educate the players on the major league drug policy at the time at the recommendation of major league baseball. This is so ridiculous I hate to even respond to it.”

Former MLB pitcher John Rocker claimed the MLBPA once hired a doctor who told him, Alex Rodriguez, Ivan Rodriguez, and Rafael Palmeiro how to safely use steroids. "If you do it responsibly, it's not going to hurt you," the doctor allegedly told them.

Such discussion of “responsible” steroid use completely contradicts the message promoted by the media. The steroid hysteria has made it impossible for most people to acknowledge that steroids can ever be used safely or with minimal side effects. Even among those that agree that steroid dangers are overstated, anything other than a steroid abstinence approach only proves that the MLBPA and/or MLB owners and organizations encouraged or were complicit in the rise of baseball’s steroid era.

Nonetheless, Lou Merloni’s analogy between steroid education and sex education is an interesting one. Hopefully, it stimulates discussion about the best way to approach baseball’s “steroid problem”. A harm reduction approach remains extremely controversial with little popular support. Most people would prefer that professional athletes “abstain” from anabolic steroids much like they would prefer that teenagers “abstain” from sexual intercourse. The abstinence approach tends to be morally-based often accompanied with scare tactics to discourage involvement. This approach is clearly a “feel good” approach but preaching abstinence and using scare tactics have not been particularly effective methods from decreasing either teenager sexual activity or performance enhancing drug use amongst professional athletes. Perhaps a scientifically-based harm reduction approach is the most realistic and pragmatic approach to such problems especially if the health of the individuals affected is the overriding concern.

References

“Merloni tells of PED advice from doctor,” May 11, 2009

“Let's end the silent treatment,” May 11, 2009

“John Rocker: Union doctor told A-Rod, me how to use steroids,” February 12, 2008

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Manny Being Manny Reportedly Testing Positive for Testosterone and HCG

2009-05-15T10:05:06Z

MLB Suspends Manny Ramirez 50 Games for HCG

Los Angeles Dodgers Manny Ramirez tested positive for testosterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) according to ESPN's Mark Fainaru-Wada and T.J. Quinn. Ramirez’ testosterone:epitestosterone ratio exceeded the 4:1 permitted by Major League Baseball (MLB). An elevated T:E ratio is indicative of exogenous testosterone use but not conclusive proof of illegal steroid use. Ramirez received an HCG positive when urinary levels exceeded the established threshold for doping.

MLB decided to suspend Ramirez for 50 games ONLY for the positive HCG test. The MLB acknowledged that Ramirez may have been able to prove that the testosterone positive was not caused by the ingestion of a banned or prohibited substance. Manny Ramirez, while admitting the use of HCG, was prepared to fight any allegation that he used banned anabolic steroids. HCG is NOT and anabolic steroid.

Manny Ramirez purportedly was prescribed HCG as a treatment for sexual dysfunction. In a statement, Ramirez claims that the HCG was given to him by a doctor for a “personal health issue.”

Recently I saw a physician for a personal health issue. He gave me a medication, not a steroid, which he thought was OK to give me. Unfortunately, the medication was banned under our drug policy. Under the policy that mistake is now my responsibility. I have been advised not to say anything more for now. I do want to say one other thing; I've taken and passed about 15 drug tests over the past five seasons. I want to apologize to Mr. McCourt, Mrs. McCourt, Mr. Torre, my teammates, the Dodger organization, and to the Dodger fans. LA is a special place to me and I know everybody is disappointed. So am I. I'm sorry about this whole situation.

Ramirez’ explanation for the positive doping result was met with skepticism. “Testosterone and similar drugs are effective for erectile dysfunction in that they jazz up your sex drive,” according to Dr. Charles Yesalis, a doping expert at Penn State. “But far more clinicians accept that affect with Viagra and Cialis. It’s hard for me to understand if it was erectile dysfunction why they would use it.”

The fact that HCG is commonly used by anabolic steroid users both during and after a steroid cycle did not help the credibility of Ramirez’ explanation. Disgraced former MLB baseball player and whistleblower Jose Canseco was recently caught attempted to smuggle HCG across the border from Mexico last fall. Steroid users use HCG to self-treat anabolic steroid induced hypogonadism that occurs after steroid cessation. The use of anabolic steroids suppresses an individual’s natural production of testosterone.

HCG is utilized by steroid-using athletes in a variety of ways. Traditionally, it has been used after a steroid cycle to help restore testicular size and function as part of an overall post cycle therapy protocol (PCT). But given that HCG continues to suppress the pituitary messenger that signals the body to make its own testosterone, HCG is not effective as a standalone PCT protocol. It is usually accompanied by a regimen of drugs such as Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and/or Nolvadex (tamoxifen citrate) in order to restore peptide hormones luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) that naturally signal the body to produce testosterone.

HCG can also be used during a steroid cycle to prevent testicular atrophy. HCG use in this manner is based on the idea that preventing testicular atrophy during a steroid cycle will make it easier to restore natural testosterone production after the cessation of anabolic steroids. In both cases, HCG is used for harm reduction and health restoration purposes by steroid-using athlete.

Manny Ramirez is a huge fan favorite in Los Angeles. There is even a section in Dodger Stadium called "Mannywood". So, the loss of Ramirez to a 50 game suspension is a huge blow to fans. However, judging by early indicators, the Dodger fans seem to be very forgiving. "We're coming regardless," said one fan proudly wearing his Mannywood t-shirt. "We still love him. Everybody makes mistakes. He's not the first and he won't be the last."

Sources

“Manny Ramirez's 'I'm back' is now 'I'm gone',” May 8, 2009

“HCG helps steroid users restore testosterone,” May 8, 2009

“Sources: Ramirez used fertility drug,” May 7, 2009

“Source: Manny Ramirez Suspension Linked to Sexual Enhancer,” May 7, 2009

“Anabolic Steroid Induced Hypogonadism (ASIH),” by Michael Scally, MD

“Inhibition and Recovery of Natural Testosterone Production,” by Bill Roberts

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

New Male Contraception Sounds a Lot Like Steroids

2009-05-14T10:05:08Z

30 Month Steroid Cycle of Testosterone Safe and Effective Birth Control

NBC chief medical editor Dr. Nancy Snyderman raved about the potential of a new male contraceptive to anchor Ann Curry on the NBC Today Show on May 6, 2009. It is purportedly better than condoms but not quite as effective as the female pill. “This one measures up pretty well,” reported Dr. Snyderman. “The fact that you can have an injection, that it works while you take, but when you stop it you get sperm counts back. That’s very interesting in the study.”

Snyderman was not alone in her enthusiasm. Other experts believed the new discovery could revolutionize male birth control. Snyderman and her colleagues were referring to a new study to be published in the June 2009 issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism that involved a monthly injection to suppress sperm production. Of course, to the many individuals who are familiar with the effects of anabolic steroids, the new contraception sounded a lot like steroids. Not surprisingly, the new study utilized the long-acting anabolic steroid testosterone undecanoate in a thirty month cycle. The study showed the male contraceptive to be safe, effective and reversible. “Within the next five years, you’re going to see it [on the market],” predicted Dr. Snyderman. “It looks pretty safe.”

The study entitled “Multicenter Contraceptive Efficacy Trial of Injectable Testosterone Undecanoate in Chinese Men” was funded by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO also participated in the study design and methodology. The contraceptive efficacy study involved the use of monthly injections of testosterone undecanoate for a period of 30 months. The study used a testosterone undecanoate (TU) preparation with 250mg of TU in 2ml of tea seed (Mellaleuca) oil. The injectable steroid was manufactured by the Chinese pharmaceutical company Zhejiang Xian Ju Pharmaceutical Corporation. Study participants were injected with an initial loading dose of 1000mg testosterone undecanoate with a 4 mL injection in each buttock. Subsequent injections of 500mg (4 mL) in a single buttock were administered in monthly intervals for the next 30 months. Researchers allowed for a 6-month “suppression phase” to suppress spermatogenesis adequately; this was followed by a 24-month “efficacy phase”.

Spermatogenesis was effectively suppressed in the majority of participants. The researchers concluded that testosterone undecanoate was highly effective at preventing pregnancy with very few side effects. "For couples who can not, or prefer not to use only female-oriented contraception, options have been limited to vasectomy, condom and withdrawal," said lead researcher Dr Yi-Qun Gu of the National Research Institute for Family Planning in Beijing. "Our study shows a male hormonal contraceptive regimen may be a potential, novel and workable alternative."

Testosterone has been known to effectively suppress spermatogenesis since it was first investigated for male contraception in the 1970s. In fact, weekly injections of 200mg testosterone enanthate (TE) were then shown to be a safe and effective birth control method. Unfortunately, the short duration of action of the enanthate ester requiring weekly injections made this method of contraception "impractical". As a result, some experts have looked to the long-acting testosterone undecanoate as the solution because it only requires a monthly injection as opposed to a weekly injection.

Some experts are skeptical about the widespread adoption of testosterone undecanoate as male birth control. Most of the concerns involve issues other than safety.

“This new formulation appears to be a success,” admits Elaine Lissner of the Male Contraception Information Project. “However, hormonal male contraceptives seem to work differently in Chinese and Caucasian men,” warns Lissner. “Testosterone alone, which was used in this study, is not considered effective enough; studies in Caucasian men add a progesterone hormone to the regimen.”

"This as been known for 15 and 20 years that [testosterone injections] are quite effective and that there is a limitation that it didn't work on everybody," according to contraceptive researcher Dr. Ronald Swerdloff. "But there's another problem and the other problem is that it doesn't work right away.” It often takes as long as six months to achieve suppression of spermatogenesis.

Furthermore, pharmaceutical companies may be reluctant to invest money in testosterone as a male contraceptive since there are so many inexpensive and effective options for female birth control.

"There hasn't been success in finding a pharmaceutical company that wants to take on this approach," said Swerdloff. "The reasons for that, in my opinion, are the same reasons that in general there have been very, very few new contraceptions for men, or even for women." After all it is easier to suppress a single egg every month than millions of sperm.

Nonetheless, the medical research supporting the safety and efficacy of anabolic-androgenic steroids for male contraception is very encouraging. Androgen research supporting the relative safety of anabolic steroids will hopefully open the door to increase research interest in the potential therapeutic applications of anabolic steroids.

Sources

“Injectable Testosterone May Provide Effective Male Contraception,” May 5, 2009

“Male 'contraceptive jab' closer,” May 5, 2009

“One Step Closer to Birth Control Shot for Men,” May 5, 2009

“Birth control for men in one injection,” May 5, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Louisiana Wants to Tax Convicted Steroid Dealer $47 Million After Released from Prison

2009-05-06T09:05:05Z

Todd Matherne Sues the State Citing Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Convicted steroid dealer Todd Matherne owes $47 million dollars in taxes to the Louisiana Department of Revenue for steroids he sold under the Zencall Labs label. Matherne was arres ted on March 7, 2005 along with this girlfriend and father during the culmination of a two-year investigation by the Louisiana State Police into the illegal manufacture and distribution of anabolic steroids. Matherne subsequently pleaded guilty to six steroid-related charges and was sentenced to seven years in state prison. He has since been released and has attempted to “rebuild his life.”

Todd Matherne alleges that he was never advised about the stamp tax assessed on his steroid business when he pleaded guilty. He first learned about the $47 million dollar tax lien against when he tried to secure a mortgage to buy a new house. "At no time did anyone tell Todd Matherne that he owed forty-seven million dollars to the state of Louisiana when he entered into the plea agreement," according to a lawsuit filed by Matherne’s attorney Paul Lapeyrouse challenging the Louisiana “drug stamp law”.

The lawsuit calls the $47 million tax unconstitutional in violation of the Constitutional prohibition against “cruel and unusual punishment”. “Most people earn but a small fraction of that amount in a lifetime,” said Lapeyrouse. “The enormity of this burden will effectively deny to him any semblance of a normal life.”

How did the State of Louisiana arrive at a $47 million dollar tax bill for Todd Matherne?

The tax stamp law specifies a $200 tax per gram of anabolic steroids if sold by weight or $400 tax per 10 dosage units. This would effectively tax a bottle of testosterone cypionate at $400 and 100 tablets of Dianabol at $4000! Of course, the likely black market price for each of these products was likely no more than a couple hundred dollars at the most in 2005. And since Matherne failed to purchase the tax stamps at the time, the tax was doubled. Is an $8000 state tax on 100 tablets of Dianabol “cruel and unusual punishment”?

Admittedly, Todd and Edward Matherne were large scale distributors of anabolic steroids using the underground lab name of Zencall Labs. They were caught with enormous quantities of processed and raw anabolic steroids when the Louisiana State Police busted them on March 7, 2005. The oral steroids seized at their apartment(s) included 10,180 tablets and 300 capsules of stanozolol (aka Winstrol), 6,440 tablets of oxymetholone (aka Anadrol), 3,500 tablets and 1,900 capsules of Cialis, 1500 tamoxifen capsules (Nolvadex), 800 Anabol capsules, 2,400 Clomid capsules and 600 Dianabol capsules. They were also caught with 727 vials of injectable anabolic steroids and several pounds of raw steroid powder and other chemicals and precursors materials.

Todd Matherne’s lawsuit targets the Louisiana State Police, Louisiana Department of Revenue, Terrebonne Parish District Attorney Joe Waitz, Sheriff Vernon Bourgeois and Louisiana Attorney General Buddy Caldwell. “This is a total frivolous suit,” said Bill Dodd, the legal representation for the Sheriff’s Office. “I don’t see how the sheriff or DA has to do with this. It’s a shame this is going to take up the court’s time.”

Sources

“Lawsuit aimed at 'drug stamp' law,” April 11, 2009

“Drug dealer fights $47 million side effect,” April 10, 2009

“Large Drug Distribution Ring Broken in Terrebonne Parish,” March 10, 2005

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Alex Rodriguez Accused of Using Anabolic Steroids as a Teenage Baseball Phenom

2009-05-01T09:05:06Z

Former Teammate Alleges A-Rod Used Steroids Playing for Miami Westminster Christian

New York Yankees Alex Rodriguez may have used anabolic steroids as a teenage baseball phenom while playing at Westminster Christian High School in Southwest Miami-Dade according to a soon-to-be-published new book about the Major League Baseball star. The story was published in advance of the publication of “Hit and Run: The Many Lives of Alex Rodriguez” by Selena Roberts which is scheduled to be released on May 19, 2009. Tracy Connor of the New York Daily News was able to obtain an advance copy of the A-Rod expose although no information was given on how she obtained it.

Sports Illustrated reporters Selena Roberts and David Epstein were responsible for breaking the blockbuster story of Alex Rodriguez’ positive tests in February 2009. They revealed that Rodriguez tested positive for testosterone and Primobolan (methenolone) in 2003 as part of the “anonymous” and non-displinary MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program steroid testing program.

Alex Rodriguez admitted taking anabolic steroids initially during an interview with ESPN’s Peter Gammons and subsequently in a press conference in Florida. Rodriguez was critical of Selena Roberts in spite of the fact that the main allegation of steroid use was true. A-Rod expressed suspicions about her plans to release a book expose of his life. “This lady is coming out with all these allegations, all these lies, because she’s writing an article for Sports Illustrated and she’s coming out with a book in May,” said Rodriguez, “And really respectable journalists are following this lady off the cliff. And following her lead. And that to me is unfortunate.”

David Hirshey, Roberts’ editor at HarperCollins, promised several new steroid revelations about Alex Rodriguez. “I assure you she has more drug revelations as well as other news. Not everything that Selena has on A-Rod’s steroid participation has come out yet.” A-Rod’s alleged teenage steroid use is one of those revelations. While it is plausible, and even likely, that Rodriguez used steroids in high school, there is very little proof to support the allegations. A-Rod may have used steroids in high school. But he may not have used them.

Selena Roberts relies on two former students at Miami Westminster Christian High School as proof. One former, obviously less successful, teammate asserts A-Rod was using steroids and that his high school coach knew it. Former Miami Westminster baseball coach denied it; he reported being surprised when the steroid allegations were first revealed. "I was pretty surprised," said Hofman. "I never had any indications of it. With his work ethic and the way he went about his business, baseball was first and everything else was second. I never really felt like he needed it."

Another former Miami Westminster high school student told Selena Roberts that the he was told by the coach’s son that Rodriguez use steroids. The “word” was that A-Rod obtained steroids from the owner of a dog kennel. Although perhaps more credible than Jose Canseco’s propensity to “guess” who is using steroids, these type of tertiary sources are not very credible.

Jose Canseco did everything he could to implicate A-Rod in his book entitled Vindicated published prior to Rodriguez’s admission of steroid use. “Hell, if you ask me, I did everything but inject the guy myself," wrote Canseco. Few people found the allegations credible until Selena Roberts’ provided undeniable proof of doping in February.

Canseco also believes A-Rod used steroids in high school based on workouts he shared with Rodriguez when he was 18 years old. "Was he on steroids in high school?" said Canseco. "I think probably so. I worked out with him when he was 18. He could lift almost as much as I could."

Now that Alex Rodriguez has admitted using anabolic steroids, any new revelations about A-Rod’s “steroid participation” are going to be uncritically accepted by the general public. Of course, it is plausible and likely that Rodriguez steroid history extends well beyond what A-Rod has publicly admitted. The general consensus is that Rodriguez is not being entirely honest about his use of steroids. Did Alex Rodriguez really use anabolic steroids as a high school athlete? We may never know for certain. The failure of athletes like A-Rod to be completely forthright about their performance enhancing drug use only contributes to further suspicions.

Sources

“A-Rod took steroids while with Yankees, and as teen, claims new book,” April 30, 2009

“Who's 'This Lady'? Meet Selena Roberts, A-Rod's Worst Nightmare,” February 10, 2009

“A-Rod admits, regrets use of PEDs,” February 10, 2009

“A-Rod's high school coach 'surprised' by steroid use,” February 9, 2009

“Sources tell SI Alex Rodriguez tested positive for steroids in 2003,” February 7, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

www.SteroidsRx.com

Texas District Attorney Office Accused of Prosecutorial Misconduct in Steroid Case

2009-04-30T08:04:32Z

Whistleblower Says Prosecutor and Police Detective Lied About Evidence

A whistleblower in the Hays County District Attorney’s Office accused her fellow prosecutor and a police detective of lying about information used to incarcerate a man for steroid possession. Shawn Nathan Shipman was arrested on October 29, 2007 and charged with two counts of possession of the anabolic steroid trenbolone acetate. Steroid possession is a felony under Texas state law and subject to 6 months to 2 years incarceration. Shipman was in Hays County Jail for 498 days prior to pleading guilty and being sentenced in March 2009.

Assistant District Attorney Lynn Peach joined the Hays County DA’s Office in February 2009 and began to suspect that there may have been fraud involved in the prosecution of Shawn Shipman. She suspected San Marcos Police Detective Laray Taylor of misrepresenting or even falsifying crucial information used in an affidavit for a search warrant in the Shipman case. Peach believed that Assistant DA Chris Johnson lied about the source of the information used in the affidavit when interrogated by the Shipman’s attorney, David Watts. “I thought, ‘Holy smokes, he’s lying,” said Peach.

Specifically, Lynn Peach alleges that the affidavit information did not originate with a “concerned citizen” (as alleged by Detective Taylor and Assist. DA Johnson). A “concerned citizen” usually has a high degree of reliability because of long-standing connections to the community and the absence and any quid pro quo. Instead, it appears that the information came from a “confidential informant.” “[A] confidential informant is someone who is involved in the drug trade who is getting something for what they’re giving” according to Peach.

To make matters worse, the confidential informant used by the San Marcos Police and Hays County District Attorney’s Office was the ex-girlfriend of Shawn Shipman. Shipman’s former girlfriend was arrested on drug paraphernalia charges approximately one month prior to Shipman’s arrest. The previous girlfriend presumably told police that Shipman used anabolic steroids in exchange for leniency.

After learning of the potential prosecutorial misconduct, Lynn Peach felt obligated to blow the whistle on her employer and notify Shipman’s lawyer of her suspicion before alerting District Attorney Sherri Tibbe.

David Watts, the attorney for Shawn Shipman, is seeking a new trial on May 7, 2009 in light of the new evidence. “Some of the evidence presented previously to the Honorable Court was to say the least suspect, if not in fact, a fraud,” according to Watts in court documents.

The Hays County District Attorney has defended the actions of her office against the allegations of misconduct. "We have investigated the allegations made by Ms. Peach and feel strongly that the law and the facts show no misconduct in the prosecution of this case," according to Tibbe in a press release. "The guiding principal of this office is to ensure that justice is administered in a fair and ethical manner."

San Marcos Police Chief Howard Williams decried the “rumors” about his officers. “I haven’t heard any accusations, haven’t heard any evidence. I’m not even exactly sure what they’re talking about,” said Williams. “I would think if someone is going to accuse one of my officers of wrongdoing I would hope they would at least have the respect to bring it to me so I could deal with it.”

State District Judge Jack Robison recused himself from the case after hearing the incriminating testimony by Lynn Peach. “It’s clear to me the type of information we’ve heard today may result in possible legal charges against an officer of this court. I’m not going to sit as a judge in that kind of case,” said Robison.

Since Judge Robison has recused himself, a visiting judge will be appointed to rule on the request for a new trial. The scandal within the Hays County District Attorney’s Office highlights several issues of concern for steroid users. The fact that someone could be put in jail for 498 for simple steroid possession is alarming. But the lengths to which prosecutors would go to put steroid users in jail, including possible misrepresentations and fraud, is even more disturbing.

Sources

“Assistant district attorney says prosecutor, detective lied in steroids case,” April 28, 2009

“Update: Judge recuses himself in new trial motion,” April 28, 2009

“New trial in steroid case a possibility,” April 22, 2009

By Millard Baker

http://www.millardbaker.com

Steroids Blog on Steroids RX.com

Rashard Lewis First Steroid Positive in NBA History

Orlando Magic Player Blames DHEA for Failed Steroid Test

BALCO Investigator Moving from Steroids in Baseball to Steroids in Supplements

Jeff Novitzky Sets His Sights on the Supplement Industry

Justice Capriciously and Arbitrarily Applied in Texas Steroid Bust

Defendant Facing 5 Years in Prison Detained, Defendant Facing 500 Years in Prison Released

Phillies J.C. Romero Allegedly Assaults Fan After Being Taunted About Steroids

Steroid Stigma Bad Enough Without Romero Unfairly Adding to It

Texas Rangers Marlon Byrd Ignores Steroid Stigma to Work with Victor Conte

The Man with a Plan Focused on Legal Performance Enhancement in BALCO Aftermath

Top Supplement Attorneys Predict Increased Regulatory Environment for the Supplement Industry

Collins McDonald Gann Law Firm Gives Presentation at International Society for Sport Nutrition Conference

California Doctor Who Prescribed Steroids and HGH to Bodybuilders and Athletes Pleads Guilty

Dr. Ramon Scruggs Admitted Prescribing Drugs for Performance Enhancement

Major Texas Drug Bust Reportedly Revolves Around Anabolic Steroids and Personal Trainers

Officials Have Been Slow to Release Details About Actual Scope of Steroid Distribution

Florida Steroid Dealer Eager to Talk About Steroid Sales to Professional Athletes

Richard Thomas Uses Arrest As An Opportunity to Capture National Spotlight

Former Boston Red Sox Lou Merloni Compares Steroid Education to Sex Education

Abstinence Approach Preferred Over Honest Approach for Sex and Steroids

Manny Being Manny Reportedly Testing Positive for Testosterone and HCG

MLB Suspends Manny Ramirez 50 Games for HCG

New Male Contraception Sounds a Lot Like Steroids

30 Month Steroid Cycle of Testosterone Safe and Effective Birth Control

Louisiana Wants to Tax Convicted Steroid Dealer $47 Million After Released from Prison

Todd Matherne Sues the State Citing Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Alex Rodriguez Accused of Using Anabolic Steroids as a Teenage Baseball Phenom

Former Teammate Alleges A-Rod Used Steroids Playing for Miami Westminster Christian

Texas District Attorney Office Accused of Prosecutorial Misconduct in Steroid Case

Whistleblower Says Prosecutor and Police Detective Lied About Evidence

Officials Have Been Slow to Release Details About Actual Scope
of Steroid Distribution