Prescription-only substances such as stenabolic, selective androgen receptor modulators, ibutamoren, tadalafil and melatonin and prohibited substances such as phenibut and cardarine were found in numerous sport supplement brands.

The substances have been linked to health issues including heart failure, high blood pressure, psychosis and stroke.

ACT Health warned the substances were also known by many other names. During its investigation authorities seized products commonly sold at some bodybuilding stores.

ACT Health declined to name specific supplement brands or products that contain banned or dangerous ingredients. ACT chief health officer Paul Kelly urged consumers to instead read labels and ingredient lists before purchasing or using products.

“If people have a look and realise that the supplement they’ve been on for a while does contain some of these substances as written on our website then they should stop taking it and seek medical advice if they are concerned,” he said.

Dr Kelly said even those users who did not experience health issues should avoid their use.

“Not having high blood pressure now even if you are on these things does not protect you from having it next week next month or next year.”

ACT Health’s investigation is ongoing. Anyone with more information about dangerous sport supplements is urged to contact the Pharmaceutical Services Section of the Health Protection Service on 6205 0998 or hps@health.act.gov.au.