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Nubain is the brand name of the semi-synthetic opioid (narcotic) Nalbuphine, which is used commercially as an analgesic (pain reliever). It is commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain after surgery or childbirth.
In recent years, bodybuilders and athletes have abused this potent narcotic to eliminate their pain, so they can continue to train and compete without interruption.

Fig 1. Nubain Chemical Structure
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History
Nubain belongs in the group of substances known as mixed agonist-antagonists analgesics; in fact, it was developed as a means to find an opioid with less abuse potential.
Nubain was approved for marketing in the USA in 1978, and it is the only opioid analgesic not controlled. In 1971, Nubain was added as a schedule II compound, but Endo Labs petitioned the DEA to exclude it, and in 1976 it was removed.
Although it is not a federally controlled substance, it is still not available over the counter in the USA, and a prescription is needed for its use. The state of Kentucky has added Nubain as a schedule IV narcotic.

Fig 2. Nubain Amp (nalbuphrine)
How it Works
Nubain is a pain reliever. It works by blocking certain receptor sites in the central nervous system (CNS), which helps to decrease pain. It does not heal injuries, it merely tricks your body into not feeling that you are injured.
Bodybuilding
In the May 2000 issue of MuscleMag International, it was claimed that 6 out of the top 10 Mr. Olympia contenders used nubain regularly. Although Nubain was developed to be less dangerous than other drugs in its class, it is still an opiate and closely related to drugs like heroin. This makes it potentially extremely addictive.
Bodybuilders who use Nubain with existing injuries, usually take the drug ahead of their workouts and report no pain. Although this might seem like a miracle drug, it merely masks injuries, it does not heal them. In fact, once this habit is started, it is very difficult to break. The bodybuilder will continue taking nubain as the injuries become more chronic and permanent due to continued training, as a way to temporarily numb away the pain.
Ahead of a competition, Nubain will assist in increasing thyroid hormone output, which will speed up metabolism. Another interesting way it is used leading up to a contest is to relieve the competitor from the mental and physical stresses.
Athletes who use Nubain should be very careful not to abuse this drug, and use only if absolutely necessary, when there are no other options available. Remember, there is very little difference between recreational use and abuse with this drug.
Side effects
The side effects of nubain are less likely than with other narcotics, but there is a chance of severe allergic reactions and overdose, as well as these symptoms.
Common Side Effects:
- Cold, clammy skin
- Weak breathing
- Heart rate volatility
- Confusion and hallucinations
- Weakness or drowsiness
Nubain is also addictive and can easily be abused by those looking to numb the pain from injuries. Athletes who are pounding their bodies with heavy weights will risk further long term problems when taking Nubain. In fact, it is possible to sustain a severe injury during a workout and not realize it until the drug has cleared out of the body.
Dosage and Half-Life
Nubain is most effective when injected IM (intramuscular), but it can be injected subcutaneously as well. Typically, bodybuilders will inject 5-10mgs per day. The half life is around 3-6 hours, so athletes can easily time their workouts around administration of the drug. As a result, they will be pain free during the training session.
Conclusion
Nubain is a very serious opiate analgesic (pain reliever), which is being abused in the bodybuilding community by those looking to numb away their injuries. I do not believe it has a place in bodybuilding, as it's a recreational drug from the heroin family. It's a good way to get hooked on rec drugs without even realizing it.
Forums
Want to read about Nubain on our forums? check out these threads:
nitrox
I haven’t used gear in 7 years. I’ve been working out for 2 years and finally got myself in shape and when using I was using D-bol,Tren-Acetate, winstrol 50 mg. Tabs,Anavar 10 mg. Tabs, E-Test,Prop-Test, Deca, Anadrol and clenbuteral 20mcg. I just want to get back in the game and was looking for some good advice. Thankx Nitrox
GearHead
If you want good steroids, Nubain is not the right article…it’s a drug.
If you want to cycle coming back, try SARMS triple stack with cardarine/ostabolic/anabolicum.
nitrox
I had a friend who has used Balken Pharmaceuticals and someone (Bulldog I think?) Bulldog To my best memory was with LEGITGEAR. Just looking to you guys for guidance. No one wants to be duped.
GearHead
You saying balkan pharmaceuticals is making Nubain? thats horrible!