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

January 18, 2024 Talib Ahmad Supplement Expert 2512 Views

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.

What Is An ECA Stack?

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)

What Is Methyldrene And Methyldrene Elite?

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:

Methyldrene VS Methyldrene Elite: What’s The Same?

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)

Methyldrene VS Methyldrene Elite: What’s Different?

Let’s go over how Methyldrene and Methyldrene Elite compare, starting with the dosages of the shared ingredients. As we did in the shared ingredients sections, we’ll first go through all the stimulants. It may come as a surprise, but Methyldrene, not Methyldrene Elite, has higher dosages for almost all these stimulants.

Both pack a significant caffeine punch, around 250mg (Methyldrene) and 260mg (Elite), for increased energy expenditure and appetite control. Both products contain 25mg of ephedra viridis, offering its thermogenic and appetite-suppressing effects. Citrus aurantium extract, a source of synephrine, a stimulant similar to ephedrine, promotes thermogenesis and potentially increases fat burning. Methyldrene contains a slightly higher dose (50mg) compared to Elite (40mg). †

Yohimbe extract may aid in fat burning by mobilizing fatty acids. Elite’s dose is slightly lower at 18.75mg compared to Methyldrene’s 19mg. And let’s not forget cocoa extract, a shared ingredient in both products, offering potential benefits like increased fat oxidation, improved blood flow, and enhanced mood. Methyldrene packs a slightly heavier punch with 35mg, compared to Elite’s 25mg.†

Although these values are not significantly different, it is important to note that each ingredient is still a stimulant. So, if you tend to be more sensitive to the effects of stimulants, particularly the side effects, be cautious of these values. †

The trend continues with the non-stimulant shared ingredients: Methyldrene has slightly higher doses than Methyldrene Elite. The most significant difference is the reduction in White Willow Extract, or the “aspirin” in the ECA blend. Cayenne pepper, with its capsaicin content, slightly elevates body temperature and may lead to a small increase in calorie expenditure. Methyldrene includes 35mg, while Elite has 25mg of the extract. But both products feature the same amount of Panax Ginseng, an adaptogen that can enhance energy levels, focus, and mood, potentially aiding in weight management.†

Methyldrene Ingredients:

Finally, we will review each product’s individualistic ingredients, starting with Methyldrene.

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)

Methyldrene Elite Ingredients:

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)

Which Is Stronger?

Although the names are so similar, there are a lot of variations between the two products, from dosages to the actual ingredients. Often, we’re asked which of the Methyldrenes are stronger, and truthfully, that’s hard to answer.

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.†

Choosing the Right Fat Burner:

The choice between Methyldrene and Methyldrene Elite boils down to your needs and preferences:

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.

Wrapping Up!

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!

Are you looking for more to read? Check out some of our other blogs!

Warnings And Side Effects:

Not recommended for use by minors. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing.

Individuals who consume caffeine with this product may experience serious adverse health effects.

In case of accidental overdose, seek professional help or contact a poison control center immediately.

Do not exceed the recommended serving. Exceeding the recommended serving may cause serious adverse health effects.

Stop use and call a qualified health care professional immediately if you experience:

Rapid heartbeat
Dizziness
Severe headache
Shortness of breath
Other similar symptoms

Improper use of this product may be hazardous to a person’s health. Exceeding the recommended serving will not improve results.

DO NOT EXCEED 2 CAPSULES DAILY.

Not for use by individuals under the age of 18 years. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing. This product can raise blood pressure and interfere with other drugs you may be taking. Talk to your doctor about this product.

Disclaimer:

†Please note the intention of the information provided is for reference only. Furthermore, we are in no way providing medical advice or instruction. Instead, the information provided in this guide/blog utilizes anecdotal information and available studies/reviews. While we aim to maintain and display accurate information, we can’t guarantee it represents the latest product formulation or information. Therefore, please visit the manufacturer’s website if you have any concerns. Also, the information above does not represent our views here at Same Day Supplements. Instead, these are the manufacturers’ and users’ views and information. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. Finally, these products aim not to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease or illness.