1. Why do people use clenbuterol?

Clenbuterol was originally used as a medication for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In some settings, veterinary doctors still use it for respiratory treatment in animals.

Over time, clenbuterol has also been misused for other purposes. These include attempts to build muscle, enhance athletic performance, promote weight loss, increase livestock growth, and in some cases it has even been found mixed with illicit drugs.

However, there is limited evidence showing that clenbuterol produces significant muscle gain or weight loss in humans. Much of the available research has involved animals rather than large human studies.

Because of its performance-enhancing misuse, the World Anti-Doping Agency has banned clenbuterol at all times, both in and out of competition.

2. Clenbuterol dosage

When clenbuterol is used legally for asthma, reported doses are commonly in the range of 20 to 40 micrograms per day.

Athletes and bodybuilders who misuse clenbuterol often use different amounts depending on personal factors such as tolerance. In these cases, users commonly follow cycling patterns with “on” and “off” periods.

These non-medical patterns are not considered safe or medically established.

3. Clenbuterol risks and side effects

Clenbuterol may present serious health risks when used regularly or inappropriately, which is why many governing bodies and countries have restricted or banned it.

• Anxiety
• Shaking or tremors
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Fast heart rate
• High blood sugar
• Low potassium
• Low magnesium
• Low phosphate levels
• High lactate levels

Because of these risks, clenbuterol should only be used under proper medical supervision where legally permitted and clinically appropriate.