Creatine and Androstenedione

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), as well as many of its member state high school associations, are often asked about so-called performance enhancing substances, such as creatine and androstenedione. The NFHS has created this area on its Web site to provide accurate, up-to-date information regarding creatine and androstenedione for state secondary school athletic/activity associations and local schools they serve.

Creatine and androstenedione are two of the latest entries in a lengthy list of substances athletes use to enhance performance. Sports organizations including professional sports leagues, college athletic organizations (including the NCAA), and other amateur athletic programs (including the U.S. Olympic Committee) have developed policies concerning the use of these substances. Many of these groups have changed their policies recently to keep up with the changing attempts by athletes to improve performance. Some state associations and their member high schools also have developed policies to cover the use of these substances. Some of these associations also have their own Web sites which may include information about creatine and androstenedione.

Select one of the following for information concerning these commonly asked questions:

What are creatine and androstenedione? Why are athletes using them?
How are they used? What do they cost? Do they enhance performance?
What are the short- and long-term risks?
What are the laws and policies for these substances?
What should athletic administrators and coaches tell their athletes about creatine and androstenedione?