Methyldrene Vs Methyldrene Elite: Which Is The Best ECA Stack?

What Is An ECA Stack | What Is Methyldrene And Methyldrene Elite | What’s The Same | What’s Different | Methyldrene Ingredients | Methyldrene Elite Ingredients | Which Is Stronger | Choosing The Right Fat Burner | Wrapping Up | Warnings And Side Effects | Disclaimer

Fat burners have long been a staple in the world of weight loss supplements, with many individuals seeking effective solutions to support their fitness goals. In this blog, we will delve into the comparison between two renowned fat burners from Cloma Pharma—Methyldrene 25 and Methyldrene 25™ Elite—both featuring the potent ingredient Ephedra. We will explore the traditional ECA (ephedrine, caffeine, aspirin) stack and how it influenced weight loss before diving into the specific ingredients of each fat burner.

The ECA stack, a classic combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin, was once a popular choice for individuals aiming to shed excess pounds. Ephedrine has since been regulated for medicinal purposes and is therefore not available for use in dietary supplements. (1)

So, how does the ECA stack live on?

Ephedrine is derived from a plant called Ephedra or Ma Huang. This derivative is called an alkaloid. So, while the ephedrine alkaloid (and closely related alkaloid) are not permitted to be used in supplements, the rest of the plant can be. And it’s lucky for us, that even without the ephedrine alkaloid, ephedra is considered an effective stimulant and possible weight loss aid. (2) We go into more detail on the differences in this post HERE.

How Do ECA Stacks Work?

Ephedrine’s thermogenic (heat-generating) properties revved up metabolism, while caffeine amplified energy and appetite suppression. Aspirin’s anti-inflammatory effects rounded out the mix. While effective, the ECA stack was a double-edged sword, notorious for its potential side effects like anxiety, high blood pressure, and even heart problems. This ultimately led to ephedrine’s ban in the US in 2004, leaving a void for alternative fat burners to fill. (3,4,5,6)

Is It Effective?

There have been studies showing the ECA stack being successful for weight loss. However, these results were not significant without dietary changes. Specifically, in one study, without a calorie restriction, the ECA stack alone was not able to produce significant weight loss. (7)

Enter Methyldrene and Methyldrene Elite, aiming to capture the ECA stack’s essence without the risks. Methyldrene and Methyldrene Elite are both fat burner supplements produced by Cloma Pharma. They aim to achieve similar results but with slightly different approaches and ingredient profiles.†

Other fat burners from Cloma Pharma include:

Earlier in the post, we mentioned how the stimulants caffeine and ephedra affect weight loss. Within the “ECA” Blend on Methyldrene’s label is the ingredient white willow bark. This powder acts similarly to aspirin and is a source of salicin, a natural pain reliever that may support weight loss by reducing inflammation and boosting metabolism. (8) This leaves five shared ingredients between the two products. 

• Citrus Aurantium
• Panax Ginseng 
• Cocoa Extract
• Cayenne Pepper
• Yohimbe Extract

Three of these are stimulants: Citrus Aurantium, Cocoa Extract, and Yohimbe. This means these ingredients can aid in the other stimulants’ appetite-suppressing, energy-boosting, and thermogenic effects. (9,10,11) Meanwhile, Cayenne Pepper can help boost the thermogenic effects, resulting in more calories burned. (12) Finally, Panax Ginseng is a slow-growing root used in Chinese medicine for centuries. Studies suggest ginseng could help improve cognitive functions like memory, social functioning, and mood. (13) 

Ginger Powder:

This spice offers anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in metabolism and reducing exercise-induced muscle soreness. Studies suggest ginger may also improve satiety and promote thermogenesis, contributing to a weight-management strategy. (14)

Cactus Cladodes Powder:

Derived from the prickly pear cactus, this ingredient is a source of dietary fiber and betalains, pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some research suggests cactus cladodes may aid in blood sugar control and appetite suppression, potentially contributing to weight management. However, more studies are needed to confirm its long-term efficacy and safety. (15)

Green Tea Extract:

A well-known health hero, green tea extract packs a powerful punch of polyphenols known as catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds act as antioxidants and have been shown to promote thermogenesis and fat oxidation. Green tea extract may also boost metabolism and suppress appetite, making it a valuable asset in a weight-management arsenal. (16)

Griffonia Seed Extract:

This extract contains 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin plays a role in mood regulation, appetite control, and sleep quality. Supplementation with 5-HTP has been shown to potentially reduce cravings and promote satiety, contributing to weight loss efforts. However, it’s essential to approach this ingredient with caution due to potential interactions with certain medications and its possible side effects. (17)

MCT Oil:

This readily available energy source potentially promotes ketosis, a metabolic state where the body burns fat for fuel. However, research on MCT oil’s long-term effects and its efficacy in promoting sustained weight loss is ongoing. The potential digestive discomfort and increased satiety it might cause also require consideration. (18,19)

Bauhinia Purpurea Powder:

This extract may support blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, potentially aiding in weight management. (20,21)

Bacopa Monnieri Extract:

This cognitive enhancer may improve focus and memory. (22)

Black Pepper Extract:

This spice may enhance nutrient absorption and thermogenesis. Meaning it improves the bioavailability of the other ingredients in the formula. (23)

Kind of like comparing Hydroxyelite and Lipodrene, both fat burners are good, and ideal for people looking for specific qualities from their fat burner. The key here is knowing what you want from your fat burner. 

A fat burner is likely to do a combination of 4 things:

• Promote Thermogenesis†
• Boost Energy†
• Promote Appetite Suppression†
• Improve Mood/Focus†

Now that we have an idea of what makes each product similar and different, it’s time to clarify which is ideal for you. Both fat burners have just below 300 mg of caffeine, so imagine taking 3 cups of coffee. If you feel like you’d be too jittery, anxious, or uncomfortable with that level of caffeine, neither of these products is suitable for you. Additionally, please note that caffeine is not the only stimulant in these formulas. But it makes a good reference point.

In addition to caffeine, Methyldrene has around 130 mg more stimulants, while Methyldrene Elite has around 109 mg more. Although all stimulants are not created equal, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say Methyldrene may be better suited for people looking for more energy. More stimulants generally can mean more thermogenesis, appetite suppression, and focus.†

But that doesn’t mean Methyldrene Elite is out of the game. Methyldrene Elite does have Bacopa Monnieri at a higher dose than Methyldrene’s Griffonia Seed Extract. So, it may be better for mood and focus support. Additionally, the Black Pepper Extract can help ramp up the ingredients without increasing the doses. The consequence of this is that we can’t compare it easily. Everyone’s experience can and will be different, not just with this ingredient, but with any product.†

• Methyldrene: Ideal for those comfortable with potent stimulants and seeking maximum thermogenesis. Its higher doses of synephrine, cayenne pepper, and cocoa extract offer potentially greater fat burning.†
• Methyldrene Elite: Perfect for individuals seeking a more balanced approach with additional metabolic and cognitive support. Elite’s MCT oil, Bacopa Monnieri, and slightly higher caffeine content could provide better focus and longer-lasting energy throughout the day.†

Remember: Both formulas pack a potent punch, and consulting a healthcare professional before using any fat burner is crucial, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

And this marks the end of our post on Methyldrene VS Methyldrene Elite. Thank you for reading! And as always, if there is something that isn’t clear, another question you might have, or if you have another idea for a blog, email us!

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