JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA –
Bulking up for you next fitness test? The supplements market has exploded. Gym rats seek to shape and improve by turning to pre-workout and post-workout formulas to better each lifting session. With nutritional supplement stores located on or near our installations and other competitors online, DoD personnel must ensure items purchased don't contain ingredients that could trigger a positive drug test.
The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the supplement market and this lack of regulation means products may contain substances beyond what is listed in the ingredients. It's not surprisingly Bodybuilding.com's 2012 "New Supplement of the Year" contained chemicals similar to methamphetamines. Relying on big brand names is one way to better combat ingesting a banned substance.
The DoD provides resources to inform personnel. At the base level, many Health and Wellness Centers will provide a listing of banned substances. Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS), a joint initiative, is dedicated to educating DoD personnel about supplements. OPSS provides a lengthy list of high-risk supplements, though a disclaimer says the list is not comprehensive.
The Drug Demand Reduction Program (DDRP) conducts random urinalysis on DoD personnel. The military's zero tolerance policy forces commanders to ensure drug use is taken seriously. Before jumping into the supplements market, consider talking to your doctor about potentially healthier alternatives and any potential side effects. No gain is worth your career.
This article is not intended to replace seeking legal advice from an attorney. Legal assistance is provided at the Air Base on a walk-in basis on Tuesdays from 1200-1500. Legal Assistance is available at the Naval Weapons Station on a walk-in basis Mondays from 0800-1100 and on Fridays by appointment from 0800-1100. Please call 843-963-5502 for all appointments.