Colombian cyclist Luis Carlos Chia Bermudez (HUANSHENG VONOA TAISHAN SPORT TEAM) has been provisionally suspended by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) after returning a positive anti-doping test for the banned stimulant Phentermine.

The 28 year-old racing in China since 2023 tested positive in-competition after claiming the sprinters green jersey on 10 April during the Tour of Hainan, where he eventually finished 5th overall and 2nd in the sprint competition.

Phentermine is typically used to stimulate the central nervous system to aid weight loss. It is banned in-competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), but can be used out-of-competition (i.e. before competing given enough time it to washout).

As a performance enhancing drug, athletes report it increases endurance, stamina, energy levels and mental focus. Though, it is a controlled substance only available by prescription that has the potential to be misused and abused.

In March 2025 former Cape Epic MTB stage winner Amy Wakefield was banned 4 years by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) after also testing positive for Phentermine.

Photo Credit: Xinhua/Yang Guanyu

© 2019-2025 All Rights Reserved Gran Fondo Daily