Import ban on DHEA by Antidoping Switzerland

The Antidoping Switzerland Foundation has published a warning concerning the illegal importation of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).

Swissmedic supports Antidoping Switzerland and generally discourages the procurement of drugs online from websites that are outside any form of medical control. This applies equally to the ordering of DHEA or other similar products.

Due to its anabolic effects, DHEA is included in the list appended to the Sport Promotion Ordinance (SpoPO) and is therefore considered to be a doping agent. If DHEA is imported by individuals, whether via an internet order or on returning from a journey, the preparations will be treated as doping agents or, if a medical certificate is provided, as prescription medicines.

The vast majority of sites offering DHEA are based in the United States, where the authorities have authorised the sale of DHEA in the form of food supplements. Nevertheless, because of its pharmacological activity and possible side effects, DHEA is marketed in Switzerland solely as a prescription-only medicine.