It was Salbutamol (Albuterol) an Adrenergic antagonist, and supposedly works in a fashion similar to adrenaline.
Normal concetrations for Salbutamol for a regular user are 200-600 nanograms per mililiter of urine, Igor tested at 1360. The UCI accepts the medical use via inhaler if a perscription is provided but prohibits oral adminstration via pills. I'ts takes about 120 puffs a day to get the same level of salbuterol that you would be perscribed for theraputic effect via tablets.
The high reading was deemed an indicator of abuse, and not regular use.
There are studies which show that when taken in enough quantaties, it can have anabolic properties, similar to Clenbuterol. But there are just as many studies that say it doesn't
The controversy surrounding the suspension comes down to the fine print. It basically states that if you have a perscription, then there is no "legal limit" to what you can test at.
You would be surprised how many "asthmatics" with perscriptions are in the Pro peleton.
The UCI cleared him, but the French wouldn't. This just adds fuel to the old "There is a persecution against Spanish cycling" line you here whenever a Spaniard tests positive.
But It's not like the UCI is really anti-doping anyways. I'm a firm believer that they turn a blind eye when ever they can. In order for cycling to be allowed in the next olympics, the UCI has to abide by the World Anti Doping Agency rules, calling for a 2 year ban on any athlete tested positive. The UCI as well as FIFA, (the international football Association) have so far refused to agree to this. FIFA has apparently signed a modified agreement which allows them to treat each incident case by case. The UCI is trying to do the same.