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Banned Pre Workouts Ingredients That You Can Still Get [Updated 2024]

by Nader Qudimat
Updated December 21, 2023

There was once a time when companies released some of the craziest but then banned pre-workouts.

From Driven Sports Craze, to Jack3d and Ultimate Orange.

And now even Excelsior has disappeared almost entirely. 

And let's not forget the disappearance of Dark Energy (but don't worry we found alternatives for that). 

These pre-workouts practically became illegal to go on store shelves. 

They either contained exotic stimulants like ephedrine, DMAA or they simply had something extra that wasn't on the label (like Craze). 

When the FDA finds out a pre-workout could potentially be dangerous for human consumption, they tend to step in. 

However, you can still find these banned ingredients like DMAA and DMHA in pre-workouts. 

In fact, today some pre workouts contain more DMAA than ever.

You can still get them and below, I'll show you the best ones that you can get. 

In fact, you can get DMAA or DMHA in bulk and add them to any boring pre workout to take them to the next level.

EUPHORIA
Flame by Dark Labs

Flame is the stim junkies dream of a pre workout that's loaded with stimulants without overdoing it with caffeine.

Stimulants: [V2] 500mg BPEA, 300mg Eria Jarensis, 300mg Theobromine, 300mg Caffeine Anhydrous, 300mg DMHA, 100mg Caffeine Citrate, 25mg Isopropylnorsynephrine, 25mg Naringin Extract, 1.5mg Alpha Yohimbine
[V3] 300mg Beta Phenylethylamine, 300mg Caffeine, 220mg DMHA, 220mg Eria Jarensis, 200mg Caffeine Citrate, 50mg Isopropylnorsynephrine Hcl, 25mg Naringin, 1.5mg Alpha Yohimbine
Discount code: FITFREK
FLAME V3 [MORE EUPHORIA] FLAME V2 [MORE URGENCY]
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Bulk DMAA powder
DMAA (1,3 Dimethylamylamine - Geranium Extract)

The quality of DMAA is a mixed bag with this source. Be aware that it won't be the same for every batch. Some users report it works, some say it's bunk. This is DMAA in bulk powder that can be added to any pre-workout to make it stronger.

Stimulants: 100mg DMAA
CHECK IT OUT
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DMAA / DMHA HYBRID
Wild Fire Pre Workout by SoCal Supps

Made our top list for DMAA supplements. This is the next best thing to Dark Energy, the feeling is similar in mood elevation. It's surprisingly very strong.

Highlights:
  • Super strong formula
  • Long lasting energy
  • Nootropics for strong focus
Ingredients: 6g Citrulline, 3g Beta Alanine, 1g Agmatine, 500mg Taurine, 500mg DMAE, 350mg Theanine, 200mg Alpha GPC, 50mg Pink Himalayan Salt, 10mg Bioperine, 350mcg Huperzine
Stimulants: 350mg Caffeine, 200mg DMHA, 100mg DMAA
Discount code: FITFREK
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If you're in the market for a banned ingredient, then now is the best time to actually get them before they get removed.

You'll find below the best places and pre workouts to buy banned ingredients...

Where to buy Banned Pre Workout Ingredients

The best way to stock up on banned ingredients is to buy DMAA or DMHA in bulk, this way you can ensure a steady supply and you can use it in any pre workout.

To do this you'll want to go to BulkStimulants.com and check out their DMAA or other stimulants that you can get. 

BulkStimulants sells every potent stimulant imaginable. 

The DMAA they sell comes in 10 gram bags, meaning you'll get around 200 servings if you use 50mg per serving, while DMHA contains around 100 servings if you use 100mg. 

This way, you can mix it in with any pre workout that doesn't already have it and this way you'll make it much stronger. 

If you can't decide between DMAA or DMHA, then this should help you

EUPHORIA
Flame by Dark Labs

Flame is the stim junkies dream of a pre workout that's loaded with stimulants without overdoing it with caffeine.

Stimulants: [V2] 500mg BPEA, 300mg Eria Jarensis, 300mg Theobromine, 300mg Caffeine Anhydrous, 300mg DMHA, 100mg Caffeine Citrate, 25mg Isopropylnorsynephrine, 25mg Naringin Extract, 1.5mg Alpha Yohimbine
[V3] 300mg Beta Phenylethylamine, 300mg Caffeine, 220mg DMHA, 220mg Eria Jarensis, 200mg Caffeine Citrate, 50mg Isopropylnorsynephrine Hcl, 25mg Naringin, 1.5mg Alpha Yohimbine
Discount code: FITFREK
FLAME V3 [MORE EUPHORIA] FLAME V2 [MORE URGENCY]
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Bulk DMAA powder
DMAA (1,3 Dimethylamylamine - Geranium Extract)

The quality of DMAA is a mixed bag with this source. Be aware that it won't be the same for every batch. Some users report it works, some say it's bunk. This is DMAA in bulk powder that can be added to any pre-workout to make it stronger.

Stimulants: 100mg DMAA
CHECK IT OUT
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DMAA / DMHA HYBRID
Wild Fire Pre Workout by SoCal Supps

Made our top list for DMAA supplements. This is the next best thing to Dark Energy, the feeling is similar in mood elevation. It's surprisingly very strong.

Highlights:
  • Super strong formula
  • Long lasting energy
  • Nootropics for strong focus
Ingredients: 6g Citrulline, 3g Beta Alanine, 1g Agmatine, 500mg Taurine, 500mg DMAE, 350mg Theanine, 200mg Alpha GPC, 50mg Pink Himalayan Salt, 10mg Bioperine, 350mcg Huperzine
Stimulants: 350mg Caffeine, 200mg DMHA, 100mg DMAA
Discount code: FITFREK
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Pre Workouts With Banned Ingredients Available Today

Below you'll find the best pre workouts with banned ingredients that are not allowed to be in supplements but somehow have made their way into the options below. 

They are available and can be bought today.

Check them out below...

Pure DMHA Powder 

DMHA Powder BulkStimulants

BULK DMHA
DMHA Powder by Bulk Stimulants

You can have DMHA for ages with this option from BulkStimulants.

Add it to any boring pre workout and make it more hardcore with this stimulant.

Highlights:
  • Milder than DMAA
  • Minimal to no effect on heart rate
  • Dosed between 100-300mg
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DMHA is an easy ingredient to find in pre workouts but if you wanted to make your own blend of hardcore stims, it would make sense to buy it in bulk. 

This stimulant combined with DMAA would make for a stim-junkie-level pre-workout that would not be approved by the FDA anytime soon. 

But of course, DMHA on its own and caffeine is a potent combinations that shouldn't be underestimated. 

Especially when other stimulants are in the mix like theobromine, synephrine, and others. 

You would need a scale to ensure you're not overdoing it but any dose between 50mg to 400mg is more than enough and it would last you a while. 

Strongest DMAA / DMHA Fat burner

Herolean Thermogenic Pre Workout

Dark Labs is untouchable when it comes to creating the most hardcore but bannable pre workouts. 

The reason for this is that they make their pre workouts in Poland and then provide it to the world. 

Herolean is the ultimate blend of DMHA, DMAA and yohimbine. 

If you're sensitive to yohimbine, and you don't like it then you might want to skip this one because it contains 13mg total of yohimbine. 

High DMAA dosage

Crack Pre Workout

DMAA + PUMPS
Crack by Dark Labs

This pre-workout is being discontinued, get it while you can. Crack is one of the popular pre-workouts and is one of the few good DMAA pre-workouts. Crack packs 120mg DMAA along with nitrates and nitric oxide boosters.

Highlights:
  • Strongest DMAA pwo available
  • Legit company and label
  • Strong pumps and formula
Ingredients: 8g Citrulline Malate, 3g Beta Alanine, 1.5g Agmatine Sulfate, 1g Ariginine Nitrate, 1g Beet Root Powder, 500mg Choline Bitartrate, 250mg L-Norvaline, 25mg Sceletium Tortuosum Extract, 15mg Grains Of Paradise
Stimulants: 400mg Caffeine, 120mg DMAA
Discount code: FITFREK
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Crack has been a top seller from Dark Labs for years now. 

And it's unbeatable. 

With its 120mg DMAA dosage, nitrates, and much more, Dark Labs has taken big risks to set the bar high for potent formulas.

With a dosage, this high of DMAA, side effects would surely be inevitable.

However, the big blend of nitrates helps reduce those effects.

Bulk DMAA Powder

DMAA Powder by BulkStimulants

VERSATILE
Bulk DMAA Powder (1,3 Dimethylamylamine)

The quality of DMAA is a mixed bag with this source. Be aware that it won't be the same for every batch. Some users report it works, some say it's bunk. Turn any caffeinated pre-workout into an exotic one with bulk DMAA from BulkStimulants.

The only downside is that you need a milligram scale or you won't be able to accurately measure it but you'll have months worth of DMAA.

This is the same site that supplies the mood enhancing Eria Jarensis, and the aggressive stimulant Amp Citrate.

Highlights:
  • Strongest exotic stimulant
  • Effective at small doses (50-70mg)
  • Lasts for months
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One of the reasons why pre-workouts keep getting banned is because of this one ingredient. 

FDA has deemed it to not be safe for human consumption.

However, the site that sells this is selling it for "experimental purposes" and it's not advertised as a supplement, so they can get away with it.

But you never know when this bulk powder DMAA may disappear from the market. 

So your best bet in having your own supply of DMAA is from BulkStimulants and you can add it to any pre workout that doesn't already have it. 

This is cheap also since one packet can last you for months if you use around 50mg, and you really don't need more than 70mg.

But we recommend that you use a milligram scale as the dosage can't simply be accurate by a scooper. 

DMAA & Yohimbine Fat Burner

Ripper

VERY STRONG
Ripper by Dark Labs

Ripper is Dark Labs fat burner, powered by DMHA and a few other thermogenic ingredients.

Update: No longer has DMAA. Get Herolean instead if you want the strong stims.

Highlights:
  • DMAA is now replaced by DMHA
  • Fully disclosed label
  • Reputable company
Ingredients: 50mg GBB
Stimulants: 250mg Caffeine, 225mg DMHA, 75mg Eria Jarensis, 50mg Isopropylnorsynpehrine, 5mg Yohimbine, 2mg Alpha Yohimbine
Discount code: FITFREK
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Ripper is easily one of the best fat burners with DMAA. 

Although it has yohimbine, it doesn't seem to cause anxiety or jitters. 

It in fact has quite a bit of yohimbine.

If you're sensitive to this stimulant, then you may want to skip this one. 

It gives all-day energy although it isn't the most potent fat burner coming from Dark Labs.

But for the convenience of pills, it makes Ripper a great choice.

Strong DMAA / DMHA Pwo

Crack Gold Edition

DMHA + DMAA
Crack Gold Limited Edition by Dark Labs

Back in stock but very limited supplies and officially discontinued but still possible to buy.

Highlights:
  • Hardest hitting DMHA / DMAA pwo
  • Potent energy blend of stims
  • Strong energy and motivation
Ingredients: 5g Citrulline Malate, 2g Beta Alanine, 1g Agmatine, 500mg Alpha GPC 50%, 500mg N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine 10mg Black Pepper Extract
Stimulants: 300mg Caffeine Anhydrous, 200mg Caffeine Citrate, 300mg Eria Jarensis, 200mg DMHA, 100mg DMAA, 50mg Hordenine, 25mg Naringin, 1mg Alpha Yohimbine
Discount code: FITFREK
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Crack Limited Edition has been killing it in terms of being one of the stronger, but more likely to be banned pre workouts. 

It's one of the first to combine DMHA with DMAA, which many considered to be overkill. 

And it kind of is overkill. 

But its popularity is undeniable and it's hard to find it in stock these days. 

Hence why it's one of the more expensive choices. 

If there's one pre workout that will be banned one day, it will be Crack Limited Edition. 

Aggressive Energy

Final Call Pre Workout

High DMAA Content and Energy
Final Call by BS Supplements

While this is a high energy pre workout, the DMAA content is questionable as it's barely felt.

Highlights:
  • 300mg Caffeine
  • 115mg DMAA
  • 25mg Ephedra Extract
Discount code: FITFREK
Ingredients: 3.2g beta alanine, 1.5g agmatine, 600mg alpha GPC, 500mg L-Norvaline
Stimulants: 300mg Caffeine, 115mg DMAA, 30mg Isopropylnorsynpherine, 30mg Juniper Berry, 25mg Ephedra Extract, 10mg Hordenine
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This choice is almost the alternative to Dark Labs Crack. 

Final Call has 115mg DMAA along with other stimulants but it's much more aggressive in energy and has fewer nitric oxide boosters compared to Crack. 

The combination of stimulants will make you feel more motivated and focused. 

Banned Ingredients Guide

In the world of fitness and bodybuilding, pre-workout supplements have become a staple. They promise to boost energy, enhance focus, and improve athletic performance. But there's a dark side to some of these products.

The Science Behind Pre-Workout Supplements

Pre-workout supplements are designed to help you get the most out of your training session. They typically contain a blend of ingredients like caffeine, amino acids, and creatine, which work together to increase energy, improve muscle strength, and enhance endurance.

The Role of Stimulants in Pre-Workout Supplements

Stimulants play a crucial role in many pre-workout formulas. They're the ingredients that give you that energy boost, helping you push through tough workouts. But not all stimulants are created equal, and some have been banned due to their potential health risks.

The Dark Side of Pre-Workouts: Banned Ingredients

Ingredients like DMAA are not allowed to be sold in pre-workout supplements but companies always find a way to include them. 

DMHA is not banned but it does look like it may be one day. 

DMAA and DMHA: Powerful but Dangerous

Two such stimulants are DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) and DMHA (2-aminoisoheptane).

These ingredients are powerful central nervous system stimulants that can significantly increase energy and focus.

However, they've been associated with serious health risks, including heart problems and neurological disorders.

DMAA: A Powerful Stimulant with Risks

DMAA, short for 1,3-dimethylamylamine, is a potent central nervous system stimulant that was once a popular ingredient in pre-workout supplements and weight loss products.

It's known for its ability to increase energy, enhance focus, and improve athletic performance.

Originally developed as a nasal decongestant in the mid-20th century, DMAA gained popularity in the fitness community for its similarities to ephedrine, another powerful stimulant that was banned by the FDA due to its health risks.

The effects of DMAA are often compared to those of caffeine, but they're significantly stronger.

Users often report intense energy, razor-sharp focus, and increased endurance during workouts.

However, these benefits come with a cost.

DMAA has been linked to a range of serious health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and even death.

The stimulant can increase heart rate and blood pressure, putting significant strain on the cardiovascular system.

It can also cause neurological symptoms like headaches, tremors, and seizures.

In addition to these physical health risks, DMAA can also have psychological effects.

Some users report experiencing anxiety, mood swings, and other mental health issues after taking the stimulant.

Due to these risks, the FDA has declared DMAA to be illegal for use in dietary supplements.

They've issued warnings about the dangers of DMAA and have taken action against companies selling products containing the stimulant.

Despite the ban, some products containing DMAA are still available online or in stores.

These products are often marketed as research chemicals or party drugs, rather than dietary supplements.

However, the risks of DMAA remain the same, regardless of how it's marketed.

While DMAA may offer powerful performance-enhancing effects, the potential health risks make it a dangerous choice.

It's important to choose pre-workout supplements that are safe, legal, and free from banned substances like DMAA.

DMHA: Intense but Interesting Stimulant with Some Controversy

DMHA, or 2-aminoisoheptane, is another potent stimulant that's found its way into the world of pre-workout supplements.

It's often touted as the next big thing in performance enhancement, promising intense energy, laser-like focus, and a serious boost in athletic performance.

But just like DMAA, DMHA is surrounded by a cloud of controversy.

DMHA operates similarly to other stimulants - by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline in the body.

This can lead to enhanced energy, improved focus, and a greater sense of well-being. Sounds great, right?

Well, hold on a second.

While these effects might sound appealing, they come with a significant downside.

DMHA has been linked to a range of potential side effects, including rapid heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and anxiety.

More severe side effects can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even seizures.

What's more, the safety of DMHA is largely unknown. Unlike many other ingredients found in dietary supplements, DMHA hasn't been thoroughly studied in humans.

This means we don't fully understand its long-term effects on the body.

Despite these concerns, DMHA continues to be used in some pre-workout supplements and fat burners.

It's often found in products marketed to those looking for extreme performance enhancement, despite the potential risks.

The FDA has taken a stand against DMHA, stating that it's not a dietary ingredient and therefore cannot be used in dietary supplements.

However, enforcement of this rule has been inconsistent, and products containing DMHA are still available in some places.

In conclusion, while DMHA might offer a serious boost in energy and focus, the potential risks and lack of safety data make it a questionable choice.

When it comes to pre-workout supplements, it's best to stick with ingredients that are safe, effective, and backed by solid research. Remember, no workout boost is worth risking your health.

The Case of Dark Energy Pre-Workout

Dark Energy pre-workout is a prime example of a product that contains these banned substances.

Despite being marketed as a research product, not for human consumption, it's been sold in nutrition stores and used by consumers looking for an extra edge in their workouts.

The FDA's Stance on Banned Pre-Workout Ingredients

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has declared both DMAA and DMHA illegal to sell and use in dietary supplements.

They've issued warnings about the potential health risks associated with these substances, including cardiovascular problems and even death.

The Global Perspective: Banned Pre-Workout Ingredients in Australia

This issue isn't confined to the U.S. In Australia, pre-workout products containing DMAA have been banned from manufacture, storage, distribution, and possession since 2012.

The decision was based on the lack of accepted therapeutic use and the potential for misuse as a party drug or sports supplement.

The Risks of Consuming Banned Pre-Workout Ingredients

Consuming pre-workout supplements with banned ingredients can lead to a range of health issues, from minor side effects like jitters and upset stomach to more serious problems like heart attack and stroke.

It's crucial to understand these risks before deciding to use such products.

The Fitness Industry's Response to Banned Ingredients

The fitness industry has had mixed responses to the banning of certain pre-workout ingredients.

While some stores have willingly removed these products from their shelves, others have continued to sell them, often with disclaimers about their potential risks.

Alternatives to Banned Pre-Workout Ingredients

Fortunately, not all pre-workouts are bad for you.

There are plenty of safe and effective alternatives to banned pre-workout ingredients.

Ingredients like caffeine, beta-alanine, and L-citrulline can provide similar benefits without the associated health risks.

How to Choose a Safe and Effective Pre-Workout Supplement

When choosing a pre-workout supplement, it's important to read the label carefully.

Avoid products that contain banned or potentially harmful ingredients.

Instead, look for products that contain proven, safe ingredients at effective dosages.

While DMAA and DMHA have been banned due to their potential health risks, there are still plenty of safe and effective stimulants available for use in pre-workout supplements.

These ingredients can provide the energy boost you need to power through your workouts, without the associated health risks.

Caffeine

Caffeine is perhaps the most well-known and widely used stimulant in the world.

It's found in coffee, tea, and many other beverages, and it's a common ingredient in pre-workout supplements.

Caffeine can help increase energy, improve focus, and enhance athletic performance.

It's generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts.

Beta-Alanine

Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that's often used in pre-workout supplements.

It's not a stimulant in the traditional sense, but it can help enhance athletic performance and reduce muscle fatigue.

This can lead to longer, more intense workouts.

L-Citrulline

L-citrulline is another amino acid that's commonly used in pre-workout supplements.

It can help increase nitric oxide production in the body, leading to improved blood flow and enhanced athletic performance.

L-citrulline is generally considered safe and is not associated with the same health risks as banned stimulants like DMAA and DMHA.

Yohimbine

Yohimbine is a stimulant derived from the bark of the Yohimbe tree.

It's often used in thermogenic pre-workout supplements and fat burners to increase energy and promote fat loss.

While yohimbine can be effective, it's also associated with certain side effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Therefore, it should be used with caution.

So as you can see, while some stimulants have been banned due to their potential health risks, there are still plenty of safe and effective options available.

By choosing pre-workout supplements that contain proven, safe ingredients, you can enhance your workouts without compromising your health.

The Role of Diet and Natural Foods in Pre-Workout Nutrition

Remember, supplements are just that – a supplement to a healthy diet.

Natural foods can provide many of the same benefits as pre-workout supplements.

For example, a banana and a cup of coffee can provide a natural energy boost before a workout.

The Future of Pre-Workout Supplements

As research continues and our understanding of exercise nutrition evolves, the future of pre-workout supplements looks promising.

With a focus on safety and efficacy, we can expect to see new, innovative products that help us reach our fitness goals without compromising our health.

The Balance Between Performance and Health

In the pursuit of fitness, it's important to strike a balance between performance and health.

While pre-workout supplements can help enhance your workouts, it's crucial to choose products that are safe and legal.

Remember, no workout boost is worth risking your health.

FAQs about Banned Pre Workout Ingredients

There are probably many questions that you have about these kinds of pre workouts.

Below you'll probably find your answers...

Why are there banned pre workouts on the market?

Many companies have found loopholes and ways to get around the strict rules of the FDA in the States. Some of these companies operate outside the States and the FDA has no control over their manufacturing and distribution.

It doesn't make them safe to take but if you always assess your tolerance and use pre workouts responsibly, and don't have a medical history that puts you at risk for using hardcore stimulants, then you should be safe. 

What are the banned pre workout ingredients?

There are a few banned ingredients which you can find the list of here and here.

For the most part, DMAA is one of the main ingredients that are targetted by the FDA and that's what is listed in most of these pre workouts. 

Here's what they consider to be banned for human consumption:

  • Acacia rigidula
  • BMPEA
  • Cesium Chloride
  • DMAA
  • DMBA
  • DMHA
  • Methylsynephrine
  • Phenibut
  • Picamilon
  • Pure Powdered Caffeine
  • Tianeptine
  • Vinpocetine

Is DMHA banned?

While the FDA hasn't made it clear that it's banned from supplements, they've sent out warning letters to a bunch of companies that use it in their pre workouts. 

They only specify that it isn't safe for dietary supplements, but most companies can still get away with it. 

Are these ingredients banned from drug tested sports?

You'll want to avoid these pre workouts if you're drug tested as they can have a false positive for other drugs and some of these are on the banned list for sports. 

If you want safe and healthy pre workouts, then you'll want to check out our FDA-approved list

What's the legal status for DMAA in my country?

The list that have these banned ingredients on their illegal list can be found here. 

by Nader Qudimat

Forged by iron and cold steel, I'm Nader, a mid-30s natural bodybuilder. Once a 100lb skinny guy, I've transformed into a 200lb muscular athlete with over 15 years of lifting experience. Today, I leverage my transformation and extensive experience to guide countless individuals on their fitness journeys.

Click here to check out my 12 year transformation: Natural 12 Year Transformation

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