USADA Grants Gian Villante Therapeutic-Use Exemption For Inhaler

Gian Villante has been granted a retroactive therapeutic-use exemption for an inhaler. The USADA announced the news today, clearing the way for his fight with Mauricio Rua at UFC Fight Night 106. The decision is the second retroactive TUE grant following Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino being given one in order to medical complications related to from a weight cut.

Villante tested positive for vilanterol in relation to a declared use of a Breo Ellipta inhaler. Vilanterol is a Beta-2 Agonist, which are banned because they are believed to have anabolic properties when used in high doses. Villante submitted an application after testing positive for a retroactive TUE.

USADA’s statement read, “Upon a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Villante’s use of vilanterol, which included the retroactive TUE application process, USADA determined that the athlete had an unequivocally diagnosed acute medical condition for which the use of vilanterol is consistent with the standard of care. Further, it was determined that the short-term use of the Breo Ellipta inhaler was within the manufacturer’s therapeutic recommendation and was intended to return the athlete to a normal state of health without providing a performance-enhancing benefit. Finally, other permitted therapeutic alternatives were not successful at controlling the athlete’s condition.

“Because Villante’s TUE application was granted retroactively, his declaration of a prohibited substance and his subsequent positive test will not result in an anti-doping policy violation. Accordingly, Villante remains eligible to compete on the UFC Fight Night Card in Fortaleza, Brazil.”