Effect of Glucocorticoids on Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Objective: To determine the effects of glucocorticoids in enhancing athletic performance.

Design: At least 2 independent reviewers conducted study selection and extracted demographic and outcome data. Relevant outcomes were stratified by administration time frame and the specific type of drug used.

Effect of erythropoietin on athletic performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Athletes have attempted to glean the ergogenic benefits of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) since it became available in the 1980s. However, there is limited consensus in the literature regarding its true performance-enhancing effects. In fact, some studies suggest there is no conclusive evidence; therefore, it is necessary to evaluate and quantify the strength of the evidence.

Systematic Review of Episodic Migraine Prophylaxis: Efficacy of Conventional Treatments Used in Comparisons with Acupuncture.

A Cochrane Systematic Review published by Linde et al. in 2016 found moderate evidence suggesting that acupuncture is "at least non-inferior" to conventional prophylactic drug treatments (flunarizine, metoprolol, and valproic acid) for episodic migraine prophylaxis. The evidence for the efficacy of these conventional treatments must be verified to strengthen and validate the original comparison made in Linde et al.

Marijuana and Its Effects on Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review.

Objective: To determine the effects of marijuana on athletic performance.

Design: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, AMED, and SPORTDiscus from their beginning to September 2016. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane collaboration tool for assessing risk of bias and the Cochrane GRADE scale.

Effect of pseudoephedrine in sport: a systematic review.

Objective: Pseudoephedrine is a stimulant that can be purchased over-the-counter to relieve symptoms of nasal and sinus congestion. Owing to its similar composition to ephedrine and other amphetamines, pseudoephedrine mirrors some of its ergogenic effects. This study investigates its possible ergogenic effect through a systematic review.