ESSENDON imposed a strict set of guidelines on former sports scientist Stephen Dank's supplement program, emails from coach James Hird and former fitness boss Dean Robinson reveal.

In emails allegedly sent to Dank on January 15, 2012 (published in Friday's Herald Sun but have not been verified by AFL.com.au), Hird states that any supplement given to players "must not harm the player" and "must not be illegal (according to WADA and AFL drug guidelines)".

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Robinson's email sets out a detailed process for Dank to follow when introducing a new supplement into the Bombers' program, including gaining approval from club doctor Dr Bruce Reid.

It also says players are to be given right of refusal before taking any supplement, and must not talk about the supplement program to anyone other than Hird, Robinson, Dr Reid or Dank, as it is the club's "competitive advantage".

The emails follow the revelation by the ABC's 7.30 program on Thursday night of text messages allegedly sent between Hird and Dank.

In the texts, which have not been verified by AFL.com.au, Dank refers to intravenous, or "IV", treatments - which could be banned under World Anti-Doping Agency and AFL rules.

On March 9, they reportedly had the following exchange:
Hird: "Good work today mate, the boys were up and about, we have a lot to work with.
Dank: "IVs start next week and Thymosin with Uniquinon. We will start to see some real effects.

Then between March 27-28:
Dank: "That is the IV list that will be completed by Wednesday night.
Hird: "Good work mate, (name deleted) rang me tonight and said how good he felt after he saw you."

On April 3, Dank detailed more substances:
"We have cerebrolysin, we will re-oxygenate and re-circulate the brain. We will also be getting Solcoseryl."

Also in April:
Dank: "All IV and injections completed.