If you're an athlete or a weight lifter, chances are you've heard of clenbuterol. The drug is widely used as a supplement for weight loss, although in Brazil it is only approved for veterinary use. In some countries, however, the drug is also prescribed for the treatment of bronchial asthma. In this article, we'll answer some of the most common questions about clonbuterol.
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Method 1 of 7: What is Clenbuterol Used for?
Step 1. In Brazil, the drug is used to treat respiratory problems in horses
The National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) does not authorize the use of medicine in humans. It can only be used to treat respiratory infections and asthma in horses, in some cases in cattle.
Step 2. In other countries, clenbuterol is used to treat bronchial asthma
It can be found in pills and in liquid form. To buy it, however, you need a prescription.
Step 3. The medicine is also used a lot by bodybuilders to lose weight
Some people use the medicine to burn fat and gain muscle mass. The effect is similar to that of anabolic steroids, although clenbuterol is from another class of drugs.
Method 2 of 7: Does Clenbuterol Need a Prescription?
Step 1. Yes, to buy clenbuterol you need a prescription
Depending on which country you live in, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat asthma or some other related illness. Talk to your doctor to find the safest and most effective dosage for you.
Prescribing the drug to help with weight loss is considered an off-label or off-label form of treatment
Step 2. It is not possible to receive a prescription for clenbuterol in Brazil
The drug is not approved for use in humans by Anvisa. This means that it is illegal to prescribe clenbuterol to patients, unless under very specific circumstances.
Step 3. Some people use over-the-counter clenbuterol to lose weight
As the drug is not a controlled substance, technically it is not illegal to use it without a prescription. Those who use the drug to lose weight or build muscle mass usually import the drug irregularly. It can be found in syrup, tablet and solution for injection.
Clenbuterol for veterinary use is much easier to find. However, some sites sell clenbuterol to humans irregularly
Method 3 of 7: What is the recommended daily dosage?
Step 1. To lose weight, the recommended dose is 120 mcg to 160 mcg per day
Athletes who use the drug to burn fat usually start at 40 mcg and increase the dosage gradually over two to four weeks.
Step 2. Follow your doctor's instructions if you are taking your asthma medication
For the treatment of asthma in humans, the recommended dose is between 20 mcg and 40 mcg. If you need clenbuterol, talk to your doctor about the best dosage for you and how often you should take it.
Clenbuterol may interact with other medications. Don't forget to tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications
Method 4 of 7: What are the side effects of clenbuterol?
Step 1. Some people report feeling agitated and muscle spasms, especially after overuse of the drug
Hyperactive reflexes and anxiety spikes are also possible effects.
Step 2. Other possible side effects include tachycardia and chest pain
There is a study that even reports a case of heart attack from overuse of clenbuterol. If you feel any tightness in your chest or cannot slow down your heartbeat while resting, seek an emergency.
Step 3. You may also suffer from nausea, vomiting, fever and chills
Gastrointestinal problems are also common in people who use clenbuterol to excess or who take the drug to lose weight and build muscle mass. People exposed to high doses of the substance can also suffer from flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills.
Method 5 of 7: Is it possible to overdose on clenbuterol?
Step 1. Yes, and it can be very dangerous
If you take more than the recommended dose, you may experience chest tightness, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, vomiting or a heart attack. Run to the emergency room if you show signs of clenbuterol overdose.
Strong side effects and overdoses are common among people who consume clenbuterol in high amounts to lose weight or gain muscle mass. Be very careful if you want to use the medicine for this
Method 6 of 7: How Does Clenbuterol Work?
Step 1. Clenbuterol opens the airways in the lungs
The remedy relaxes the smooth bronchial muscles, making breathing easier. However, scientists are still not sure how the drug burns body fat.
Clenbuterol remains in the blood for up to 39 hours. Therefore, it is possible to experience side effects for a long time after taking the drug
Method 7 of 7: Can Athletes Use Clenbuterol?
Step 1. No, clenbuterol is banned by the World Anti-Doping Code
This means that if you are caught using clenbuterol or with trace amounts of the substance in your body, you may be disqualified from your sport. The drug is considered a steroid-like stimulant.